One cruise, two options in 2025: upstream (NAT2506) and downstream (NAT2507) with the upper reaches of the Amazon
Expedition in the purest sense: numerous Zodiac rides take you deep into the labyrinth of spellbinding tributaries
Beauty that demands protection: see the exotic flora and fauna by day and by night
People on the river: small settlements provide insights into life against the green backdrop of the jungle
Form your own impressions of the sensitive biotope as you reflect on the economic interests, conservation and politics
At anchor
Further informations
If nature’s orchestra has created a masterpiece, then it’s the Amazon. Even the name evokes a sense of temptation, risk and a yearning for adventure. But it also reminds us of the need to protect unique ecosystems. How does it feel to hear, see and sense it for the first time? Find out on board the small HANSEATIC nature. Experience exotic animals, traditional ways of living and tropical plants from the deck and Zodiacs – weather and currents permitting – as you travel around 4,000 km (2,485 mi.). The daytime passage through the Breves Channels hints at nature’s fantastic creations. Venture all the way to Iquitos in Peru, accompanied by the calls of toucans, yellow-headed caracaras and saffron finches. Your experts on board will enhance your perception and awareness of just how sensitive this biotope is. They will comment on what you see and deepen your knowledge with fascinating presentations.
To date, around 40,000 plant species have been described in the Amazon region, along with around 1,300 types of bird and more than 400 mammals. Which species will you discover? With luck, you may catch sight of pink river dolphins as you travel by Zodiac in Guajara. The young are grey at first and only change colour at the age of two. In the small riverside settlement of Virassaia, look out for a special feathered friend: the indigenous hoatzin. You might even see herons and cormorants as you enjoy Zodiac rides through the species-rich floodplain areas. New surprises await around every bend in the river. In Alter do Chao, an almost Caribbean beach suddenly appears on the emerald-green Rio Tapajos, inviting you to relax and swim. A wonderful introduction to the Brazilian way of life, which you will get to know even better in Parintins. Pay a visit to the cathedral or treat yourself to some regional delicacies. Seek out a totally different natural treasure in Canacari. The Zodiacs will transport you through drifting pastures in search of the world’s largest water lilies. Their gorgeous leaves are nearly 3 m (10 ft) in diameter. Again and again, you will discover hidden paradises and marvel at exotic plants and creatures. The experts will enhance your experiences with their specialist knowledge. They’ll highlight the extent to which commercial interests are taking over and endangering this natural treasure trove, but also the work of global rescue and reforestation initiatives.
On the Rio Negro, you will bear witness to the legendary “Encontro das Aguas”. The “Meeting of Waters” is the spectacular confluence between the dark Rio Negro and the pale, sandy-coloured Rio Solimoes, the name for this part of the Amazon River.
In Manaus (Amazon), you will see how closely nature and culture intertwine on the banks of the Amazon. The colonial past and global present meet in the jungle metropolis. The city’s history and opera house1 bear witness to the time when this former centre of rubber made its fortune, with modern glass facades sitting alongside classical and art nouveau buildings. On a scenic flight above Manaus (Amazon)1, these impressions will intensify as the jungle and city merge.
You will continue on to Badajos. The Zodiac will take you along a multitude of small channels. Huge water lilies – the Victoria amazonica – adorn the water surface. The lush green banks accentuate the red flowers of bromeliads and passion flowers. Will you spot sloths or capuchin monkeys doing gymnastics in the trees? Your night-time Zodiac ride near Cuxiu Muni will become even more thrilling if the eyes of caimans penetrate the darkness. This unique cruise is filled with astonishing sights – for example, on the Rio Jutai, when the cries of tropical birds reverberate across the water. Visit the colourful, vibrant markets of Leticia, where aromatic spices and exotic fruits inspire the senses. In Pevas, the stilt buildings of the native Peruvian village provide an insight into life in the wilderness.
1 The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.
The itinerary depends on official approval and the weather conditions. The natural experiences and wildlife sightings described are possibilities on this expedition and are not guaranteed.
At anchor
When the ship is anchored, there is no pier and the ship anchors in open water. The transfer to land is carried out using tender boats or zodiacs.
Golf
You head for the best and most beautiful greens in the world and are looked after by a PGA golf professional
Zodiac
Where even our small and few ships can't get any further, you can continue your adventures safely in robust inflatable boats (weather permitting).
Music
In an almost private atmosphere you can experience artists up close on the high seas or in front of the most beautiful places in the world.
Arrival and departure options
Sat, 05.04.2025
Scheduled flight from Germany to Sao Paulo
Optionally bookable
Sun, 06.04.2025
Sao Paulo City tour, overnight stay with breakfast
Optionally bookable
Mon, 07.04.2025
Flight to Belem
Optionally bookable
Fri, 25.04.2025
Lima Overnight stay with breakfast
Optionally bookable
Sat, 26.04.2025
Scheduled flight from Lima to Germany
Optionally bookable
Sun, 27.04.2025
Arrival in Germany
Optionally bookable
Extend your trip
Our popular before and after programs include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
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Pure expedition adventure – along thousands of kilometres
amazonas
Seemingly endless, the lush green of the tropical rainforest lines the Amazon, the world’s second-longest river and its richest water source. Large sections of its drainage basin remain unexplored – the last blank spots on our all-too-familiar map. Come on board our expedition ships and unravel the secrets of an almost untouched world together with our team of experts. And, who knows, maybe you might actually set foot on unexplored terrain.
Price special
Attractive combination discount
Extend your stay with the previous cruise NAT2505 and save € 1,200 per person (applies to PLATIN fare, categories 1-8).
Included Services
Expedition and information
All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise, give presentations and multimedia lectures, provide well-informed answers to questions about the cruising area and take part in the Zodiac landings/rides and hikes from/to ship
Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
Comprehensive information before the cruise – for example about the Arctic, Antarctic, the South Seas and the Amazon, as well as expedition maps
Cabin
In every cabin: champagne to welcome you, mini bar restocked daily with non-alcoholic beverages (additional selection in Grand Suites and Junior Suites), coffee machine (tea on request), 24-hour cabin service
Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkelling equipment
Flat-screen TV with information and entertainment programme, personal email account and Internet access via Wi-Fi (free of charge for one hour per guest and day, satellite-dependent especially in polar areas)
Information about harbours and destinations (where available) in the cabin
Restaurants
International gourmet cuisine – full board: breakfast (early-bird and late riser breakfast), bouillon, afternoon coffee/tea time, lunch and dinner (three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours)
All around carefree
German ship and expedition management as well as a mostly German-speaking service crew
Harbour and airport fees
Cancellation fee insurance (20% excess) in the fares PLATINUM and GOLD
Spa and fitness
Extensive sports programme: fitness area with ocean view, course programme, additional sports activities on shore depending on the destination (Personal training for an additional charge)
OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area (spa treatments and hairdresser at a surcharge)
