Kayak, hike and sail the Amazon: Abercrombie & Kent launches riverboat in Peru

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group has officially launched Pure Amazon, An A&K Sanctuary – its first-ever riverboat in South America – now sailing through Peru’s vast Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.

This luxurious new vessel welcomes just 22 guests on three-, four- and seven-night itineraries, combining intimate wildlife encounters with Peruvian art, cuisine and conservation-led travel.

Peru is one of the world’s greatest biodiversity hotspots, home to thousands of species and rich cultural traditions – all at the heart of Abercrombie & Kent’s new Amazon adventure.

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Three and four-night itineraries are available, all of which sail to and from the port town of Nauta, a short transfer from the nearest airport of Iquitos.

Sailing along the Amazon River, explorers will delve into the heart of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve – a huge area of rainforest famous for its plethora of colourful bird species and being one of the last remaining homes of the Giant South American turtle.

Guided daily excursions via kayak, canoe or on foot with Abercrombie & Kent will offer the chance to spot some of the Amazon Rainforest’s most iconic wildlife, including pink river dolphins and three-toed sloths.

For those who might be a dab hand with a fishing rod, fishing in the black waters of the Reserve’s Samira River is not to be missed.

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Designed by Milan-based architect Adriana Granato, the “floating boutique hotel” is home to 10 double cabins and two single cabins featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for soaking up jaw-dropping views,  and original Peruvian artworks.

Each cabin includes authentic kené textiles by Shipibo-Konibo artist Deysi Ramírez, while site-specific installations by Venice Biennale artist Silvana Pestana use bronze, clay and gold leaf to explore environmental themes.

Guests can also expect an outdoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor bars and lounges. Additionally, there’s a spa boasting treatments and wellness experiences inspired by Amazonian traditions, a well-equipped gym and, to top it all off, a guest-to-staff ratio of 1:1. The vessel’s low-level lighting and energy-efficient systems minimise environmental impact.

Dining onboard Pure Amazon

If only marmalade sandwiches spring to mind when you think of Peru, think again…Menus onboard celebrate Peru’s diverse culinary heritage, blending local ingredients with contemporary flair. Each night’s five-course tasting menu features Iquitos-sourced produce such as river prawns, caramelised plantain and hearts of palm paired with Latin American wines.

At the bar, guests can sample pisco cocktails infused with coca leaf or dragon’s blood resin – an adventurous nod to the rainforest’s natural bounty.

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Through A&K Philanthropy, Pure Amazon supports community and conservation projects across the region. Partnerships with the Nueva Arica community and Amanatari promote sustainable bio-businesses such as honey and aguaje fibre production.

Guests also visit FORMABIAP – a bilingual teacher training programme empowering young people from Indigenous Amazonian communities and preserving ancestral knowledge.

Chief executive Cristina Levis said: “Pure Amazon marks a momentous new chapter for Abercrombie & Kent. This venture embodies our commitment to experiences that are both luxurious and sustainable, honouring the essence of this remarkable destination.”

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