Expedition Amazon (Upstream) - A Special Legendary Route

If nature's orchestra has created a masterpiece, it is undoubtedly the Amazon. The very name evokes temptation, daring, and the longing for adventure, while also highlighting the need to protect its unique ecosystems. How does it feel when you actually hear, see, and sense the Amazon? Discover this onboard the intimate HANSEATIC spirit. Over approximately 4,000 km, you'll experience exotic animals, traditional habitats, and tropical plants from both the deck and Zodiac, depending on the weather and currents. Even during a daytime journey through the Breves Channels, the fantastic creations of nature start to reveal themselves. Accompanied by the calls of toucans, yellow-headed caracaras, and saffron finches, you venture all the way to the Peruvian town of Iquitos.Your onboard experts continually sharpen your perception and awareness of this delicate biotope. They provide insightful commentary on observations and deepen your knowledge through engaging lectures.

To date, approximately 40,000 plant species, around 1,300 birds, and more than 400 mammals have been documented in the Amazon region. Which species will you discover? With luck, you might spot pink river dolphins from the Zodiac near Guajara. These juvenile dolphins start off grey and turn pink only after about two years. In the small riverside settlement of Virassaia, keep an eye out for a truly unique bird: the ancient-looking Hoatzin. On Zodiac excursions through biodiverse floodplains, you may also observe herons and cormorants. Every turn of the river brings new surprises.In Alter do Chao, along the emerald Rio Tapajós, you will come across a beach reminiscent of the Caribbean, inviting you to relax and take a refreshing dip. This is a perfect introduction to the Brazilian lifestyle, which you'll experience even more vividly in Parintins. In addition to the impressive cathedral, the local delicacies will delight your senses.In Canacari, you’ll explore a different kind of natural treasure. As you navigate through grassy wetlands by Zodiac, you'll search for the world’s largest water lilies, which have a jaw-dropping leaf diameter of nearly 3 meters. Your journey will continually lead you to hidden paradises, where you will marvel at exotic plants and animals. These experiences are enriched by the expertise of the onboard specialists, who will delve into how economic interests threaten this natural treasure trove, but also highlight global initiatives dedicated to its conservation and reforestation.

In Manaus, the intricate intertwining of nature and culture along the Amazon's banks becomes distinctly evident. This jungle metropolis is a place where colonial history meets global modernity. The city's history and its famous opera house stand as testaments to the era when the former rubber capital amassed great wealth, with modern glass facades intermingling with classical and Art Nouveau architecture. These impressions are further intensified by a scenic flight over Manaus, showcasing the vivid interplay between the rainforest and the bustling city.

A hidden metropolis inside of the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, this city is both modern and exciting, yet untouched by the world beyond the jungle. Visit its historical Rubber Museums or stop by the Park of Mindu and catch glimpse of the endangered Pied Tamarin.

Your journey continues to Badajos. In the Zodiac, you venture deeper through narrow channels. The water's surface is adorned with the impressive Victoria amazonica water lilies, and the lush greenery along the banks is accented by the red blooms of bromeliads and passion flowers. Will you catch sight of playful capuchin monkeys or sloths in the trees?An exciting nocturnal Zodiac excursion near Cuxiu Muni awaits you, where the eyes of caimans may pierce through the darkness. This unique journey is a continuous invitation to wonder – such as on the Rio Jutai, where the calls of tropical birds echo across the water.Leticia's markets offer a vibrant and lively spectacle: the fragrant spices and exotic fruits awaken the senses. In Pevas, the stilt houses of the Peruvian indigenous village provide insight into living in the wilderness.

Iquitos, Peru, the largest city in the Amazon rainforest, is a vibrant gateway to lush jungles and winding rivers. Accessible only by boat or air, it offers unique Amazonian experiences, from wildlife tours to river cruises. The city's bustling markets, such as Belén Market, showcase exotic produce and local crafts. Iquitos blends colonial architecture with colorful street life, reflecting its rich history and culture. Surrounded by dense rainforest, it is a hub for eco-tourism and adventure, making Iquitos a captivating destination for explorers.