Slip away from the village into the flooded forest aboard a private motorized canoe, gliding down secret tributaries where giant Victoria amazonica lily pads spread like jade platters and pink river dolphins surface at dawn. This is the raw, unhurried Amazon — no crowds, just you and the river.
What to expect
Your private guide poles and motors through narrow igarapé channels draped in cathedral-canopy jungle, pointing out caiman, anaconda habitat, and bird species that vanish the moment a larger vessel passes. Giant Victoria amazonica lily pads — some broad enough to support a child — fill backwater pools in a scene that feels prehistoric. The return leg often rewards with a pink river dolphin sighting as the channel widens back toward the main river. Everything is arranged before you step ashore so not a single minute of port time is wasted.
Good to know
Pre-book via Tours by Locals at least 2 weeks ahead; the guide meets you at the Boca da Valeria dock. Allow 2–2.5 hours total; confirm your ship's all-aboard time and build in a 30-minute buffer. Wear lightweight, light-coloured long sleeves and bring DEET insect repellent.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Boca da Valeria — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Boca da Valeria
- Giant Amazon Lily Pad & Flooded Forest Skiff Expedition
- Amazonian Village Immersion: School, Church & Family Homestay Visit
- Amazon Wildlife & Caiman Spotting: Private Naturalist-Led Jungle Walk
- Amazonian Handicraft & Artisan Market: Private Curated Shopping Tour
- Amazon Birding at Dawn: Rare Macaw & Toucan Private Photography Tour