South American River

From the Amazon to the Andes, South American river cruises provide a unique journey through rainforests, cultures, and landscapes.

Aerial view of a winding river flowing through the lush Amazon rainforest in Brazil, showcasing South America's natural beauty.

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AmaWaterways' Amamagdalena cruise ship sailing in Columbia.

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The AmaWaterways AmaBella river cruise ship sailing past the historic Golubac Fortress on the Danube River in Serbia, a medieval castle built into a cliffside.

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A panoramic view of the historic town of Dürnstein, Austria, and the Kuenringer Castle ruins overlooking the Danube River, a popular stop on an AmaWaterways cruise through the Wachau Valley.

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The AmaWaterways AmaMagna luxury river cruise ship sailing the Danube River with the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest, Hungary, in the background.

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Avalon Waterways river cruise ship on the Danube River at twilight in Budapest, Hungary, with illuminated buildings and reflections.

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Butler serving guests champagne during an exclusive welcome party on the SS Catherine.

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Uniworld's River Princess cruise ship docked on the Danube River in Regensburg, Germany, with the historic St. Peter's Cathedral illuminated against the night sky.

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Uniworld's S.S. Maria Theresa river cruise ship sails on the Danube River with the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest, Hungary, under a dramatic pink and purple sky.

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Colorful colonial balconies in Cartagena.

South America River Cruises

A South American river cruise offers an incredible way to explore the continent’s diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and unique ecosystems.

The Amazon River, one of the most iconic waterways, takes travelers deep into the heart of the rainforest, where they can encounter exotic wildlife, indigenous communities, and lush, untouched nature.

Other rivers, such as the Parana and the Magdalena, provide access to vibrant cities, colonial towns, and stunning waterfalls, offering a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Whether spotting pink dolphins in the Amazon or cruising past the dramatic landscapes of the Andes, each journey reveals a new and fascinating side of South America.

Beyond its natural wonders, a river cruise in South America gives an up-close look at local traditions, music, and cuisine. Passengers can visit bustling riverfront markets, sample regional specialties, and witness traditional crafts being made by local artisans.

Whether seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or cultural discoveries, a South America river cruise provides a unique and unforgettable way to explore this diverse and breathtaking continent.

Things to Do on a South America River Cruise

An aerial shot of a brown, winding river cutting through the dense, green canopy of the Amazon rainforest in South America. The riverbanks are composed of light-colored sand and the water has a swirling, fluid pattern. The surrounding forest is a vibrant mix of different shades of green, with some areas appearing darker and others lighter, showcasing the immense scale and biodiversity of the Amazonian ecosystem.

Experience Unparalleled Up-Close Wildlife Encounters

Actively seek out diverse Amazonian fauna with your guides. Spot various species of monkeys, elusive sloths, iconic pink river dolphins, colorful macaws and toucans, caiman, and a vast array of other birds and insects in their natural rainforest habitat.

A powerful jaguar from the South American Amazon rainforest walking through tall, green grass and lush jungle plants. The jaguar's coat is a striking pattern of black rosettes on a golden-yellow background. Its gaze is directed straight at the camera, conveying a sense of focus and intensity. The lighting in the image is bright, with sunlight filtering through the dense foliage, highlighting the animal's powerful build and showcasing the unique wildlife of the region.

Explore via Skiff Excursions & Guided Jungle Walks

Navigate narrow tributaries and hidden lagoons in motorized skiffs for intimate wildlife viewing opportunities. Embark on guided walks into the rainforest with expert naturalist guides to discover the intricate ecosystem, medicinal plants, and smaller creatures often missed from the water.

A view of a line of colorful houses built on stilts along the bank of a wide, calm South American river, likely the Amazon. The houses are made of wood with various colored walls and metal or thatched roofs. Behind the houses, the dense green canopy of the Amazon rainforest rises under a bright, blue sky dotted with fluffy white clouds. The scene captures the unique way of life for communities living along the river in the Amazon region.

Engage with Local Communities

Visit remote riverside villages to gain insight into the daily lives, traditions, and culture of indigenous communities. Learn about their ancestral knowledge of the rainforest, local crafts, and the challenges and realities of life along the river.

A view of two motorboats carrying tourists on a calm, dark river, likely in the Amazon rainforest of South America. The boats are moving away from the viewer, creating a wake on the water's surface. The river is surrounded by a dense wall of lush green trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves and reflecting on the water. The sky is a mix of blue and soft clouds, suggesting either sunrise or sunset. The image captures the feeling of a river safari or tour within the rich, natural environment of the Amazon.

Learn from Expert Naturalist Guides

Benefit immensely from the deep knowledge of onboard naturalist guides. They lead all excursions, deliver informative lectures on local ecology and wildlife, and are skilled at spotting and identifying the diverse flora and fauna you'll encounter.

A serene, first-person view from the front of a small boat traveling on a calm, dark river in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil. The boat's white and green bow is in the foreground, with the water's surface reflecting the lush, green trees and a clear, blue sky. The dense jungle foliage lines both sides of the river, creating a tunnel-like effect. The image captures the peaceful and immersive experience of exploring the vast, natural waterways of the Amazon region.

Participate in Unique Rainforest Activities

Many cruises offer memorable experiences like piranha fishing (and perhaps tasting your catch!), night skiff safaris to search for nocturnal creatures such as caiman using spotlights, or kayaking/canoeing in tranquil blackwater creeks and lakes.

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South American River

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