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New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

The science of the Amazon expedition cruise: Brazil

12 September 2024

19 August 2025 – 9 days for £4,999 per person in a lower deck cabin, or £5,199 per person in an upper deck cabin.


Calling all wildlife enthusiasts! Join this exceptional journey exploring Brazil’s most celebrated ecological region, the Amazon. Discover untouched native forest, which is the habitat of exotic birds such as parrots and toucans, howler monkeys, three toed sloths, frogs, snakes, peccaries, various species of caiman and pink river dolphins. 

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most significant and unique ecosystems on the planet. About 60% of this mighty rainforest is located in Brazil. It is home to around 10% of the world's known biodiversity. 

Begin in the charming city of Manaus, with time to explore this bustling city. From here, board the small and comfortable MV Desafio, chartered exclusively for this venture. Travel up the Rio Negro, the least inhabited river in the Amazon river basin. Throughout the cruise, you will explore the region on daily excursions by small boat and on foot, looking for a variety of species which may include pink river dolphins, monkeys, sloths, macaws and butterflies.

You will be accompanied throughout by New Scientist staff writer, Graham Lawton. He mostly writes features about life sciences, health, biodiversity and the environment as well as No Planet B, a monthly column on environmental issues. In addition to Graham, whilst onboard, you will be joined by a local highly skilled guide. Every evening, enjoy informal talks from the onboard team covering a variety of topics including:

  • The flora and fauna that we have observed during the day 
  • The ways that plants and animals have evolved in the rainforest
  • The relations between the plants, animals and their physical environment
  • The ecology of the Amazon rainforest

Your home as your sail the waters of the Amazon will be aboard the MV Desafio, a 34 metre schooner. This elegant three-­masted wooden vessel has recently been renovated and has 10 cabins available which are located on the lower and upper decks. This yacht has been carefully selected to allow a maximum of 20 guests, offering a truly intimate experience.  

In partnership with Latin Routes.


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