The journey

Iquitos (north Peru) round trip over eight days (departs year-round)

Ports of call

Several stops along the Amazon River’s three tributaries: Marañón, Ucayali and Puinahua

Wining and dining

One restaurant, two lounges Small workout space ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Wellness Our luxe rating

If South America’s largest river is the stage and its untamed inhabitants the players, then Aria Amazon‘s 16 suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows, must be the dress-circle seats. Enjoy Mother Nature’s impromptu theatre at its best – pink river dolphins devouring catfish, squirrel monkeys prancing about in trees and three-toed sloths hanging from the branches – as the vessel navigates the river. There are three-, four- and seven-night itineraries in the high-water (December to May) and low-water (June to November) seasons. Opt for the eight-day cruise for the most immersive experience during the high-water season when, surprisingly, it rains less. On guided excursions, wade through dense forest, visit sleepy villages and even fish for piranhas.