This trip explores some of the most untouched rainforest in all of the Amazon. On the expedition vessel, the Motor Yacht Tucano we venture far up the least inhabited river in the Amazon Basin: The Rio Negro. We explore areas very rarely visited and seek out the mysterious life of the wilderness that stirs in the forest and in the heart of wild nature. Heart of Amazonia is the most thorough, detailed, and sophisticated trip offered in the entire Amazon.Our guides are
accomplished naturalists and we see creatures almost never seen by other visitors. The trip is rather like being on a time machine in that we are able to visit places that have not changed for millions of years. Truly the trip of a lifetime.

Manaus is a city in the northern part of Brazil and capital of Amazonas State. Located on the Rio Negro near its confluence with the Rio Solimões (also known as the Amazon River), it is the chief port and a hub for the region's extensive river system. Situated on the banks of the Rio Negro (meaning Black River, because of the dark color of the water), Manaus is an important centre for ecological tourism.

Enjoy a private airport transfer with private vehicle and driver.

A valid passport is required for all American and Canadian citizens, including children, intending to visit Brazil. It is recommended that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. There have been cases where citizens were refused entry for not having the six-month validity. In addition, all Americans and Canadians are required to have a valid Brazilian Visa prior to their arrival in Brazil, and the visa must be used within 90 days of issuance. Otherwise, they will be refused entry into the country.

Enjoy a half day private city tour in the company of an English speaking Guide with a private vehicle and driver. After being picked up from your hotel, you will be brought along the 11 km waterfront road of Ponta Negra road before reaching the floating port of Manaus. Enjoy a brief stop at the Rio Negro Palace, the old official residence of the governor, and a beautiful example of architecture of the rubber golden period. Visit the Indian Museum, as well as The Salesiana Congregation which is an interesting place to understand the traditions, habits and behavior of the indigenous populations. Take it all in while you have another stop at the Justice Palace and the grand finale “The Opera House”, a fantastic theater opened in 1896, and without a doubt one of the main attractions of Manaus, an extraordinary symbol of the wealth and greatness of the rubber golden period. At the end of the tour you will be transfered back to your hotel or left in the city centre if you feel like doing seom independent exploring.

Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities.

Right on the River Negro, in Manaus, sits the Hotel Tropical’s stunning property of more than 100 acres of garden and rainforest. Enclosed are delightful swimming pools, tennis courts, and a volleyball court. There are 594 rooms, each well-appointed with the comforts of home. The restaurants serve fresh produce and desserts, as well as the regional dishes for which so many plan their visits to Brazil. Be sure to try the Amazon Rainforest tours or simply relax at the hotel’s beauty parlor.

Overnight at Tropical Manaus.

Port transfer in Manaus included.

Early morning embark on Tucano Boat for a wonderful boat cruise on the Amazon River.

The Amazon cruise vessel Tucano has comfortable cabins with large beds and private baths, and is air-conditioned throughout. With their small groups (Max. 9 cabins), trained naturalist guides, and thoughtful itineraries, they offer a genuine, thrilling experience with the REAL Amazon rainforest. The Tucano is a big boat, over 80 feet long. There is plenty of space to spread out, study the forest nearby, and contemplate the wonders of nature. All of the 9 cabins are comfortable and most have individual beds while others have above and below beds. The Salon serves as their vessel library and dining room. The top deck is open and has a large sun canopy - a wonderful place to spot wildlife or soak in the vastness of the Amazon.

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

In our well equipped expedition boat the Motor Yacht Tucano, we explore far up the least inhabited river in the Amazon, the Rio Negro. We explore the forest by foot or in our launches, go for swims in the cleanest water in the world, visit with local settlers that live deep in the forest, and spend a great deal of time hunting for and observing the greatest collection of wildlife on earth.

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

Today we depart the Rio Jauaperi and head downstream on the Rio Negro exploring a new collection of rainforest habitats. In the daytime we will continue to scout in our launches and walk in the forest, and at night we will continue our hunts for nocturnal wildlife

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

We arrive at extraordinary river called the Rio Branco and spend a few days in this unspoiled and lovely rainforest area.

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

Today we proceed down the southwestern bank of the Rio Negro observing the different wildlife found on this side of the river. Our walks of the forest will continue to add our list of creatures observed.

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

Today we visit the village of Novo Airão. We will walk through the streets and marvel at how the 19th Century thrives in this remote corner of the globe. We travel through the night to the confluence of the Amazon and Negro Rivers.

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

This morning we visit the Lago Janauari Ecological Park where the thick brown water of the Amazon flows swiftly through the forest. This area is thick with life and we are almost guaranteed to see monkeys. We then travel to the “Encontra das Aguas”, the stark several mile long line where the world’s two largest rivers, the Amazon and the Negro, join in a turbulent maelstrom. In the evening we will return to Manaus and overnight on the boat.

Overnight at Tucano Amazon Cruise (7N).

After breakfast passengers will disembark from the Tucano and in the afternoon or evening, transfer to the international airport.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport) (standard).