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Private Charter

Tupaiú

A boutique riverboat offering intimate and immersive explorations of Brazil’s lush Tapajós region.

Overview

The Tupaiú is a 67-foot traditional wooden riverboat that brings the raw beauty of the Amazon into harmony with charm, intimacy, and comfort. Accommodating just 8 guests in 4 cozy, air-conditioned cabins (with an option to sleep up to 10 by converting the library), the vessel is ideal for private charters, although it does have one or two regular 5-day departures each month throughout the year making it a good option for solo travelers and couples too.

Life On Board

The warm interiors, local wood craftsmanship, and open-deck design create a sense of laid-back elegance. The boat’s top deck is a sanctuary for reflection and connection—perfect for watching sunsets, sipping wine with your group, or simply breathing in the magic of the jungle as it quietly unfolds around you.

The main deck features two cabins, one double and one bunk cabin (shared bathroom) and a spacious dining room with panoramic views, while the upper deck boasts a forward facing master suite—arguably offering even better views—another double, and a great covered balcony to the rear, ideal for al-fresco dining amid a magical setting and refreshing breeze while cruising. There is also a small library room which can be converted into a cabin with 2 single beds for groups of more than 8 people. It is also air-conditioned and shares a bathroom located on the main deck with the bunk cabin.

On board and off the boat, the long-serving and vastly experienced crew delivers high-touch service with heartfelt Amazonian hospitality, from freshly made beds to beautifully set beach picnics including tents, mats, towels, cooler boxes, chairs, and tables.

Itinerary Options & Highlights

Tupaiú sails through Brazil’s Tapajós region—often referred to as the “Caribbean of the Amazon” for its white-sand river beaches and strikingly clear blackwater tributaries. Whether cruising from Alter do Chão along the Tapajós and Arapiuns Rivers, or deeper into the lesser-visited waters of the Pará state on a choice of 4, 5 or 6 day itineraries, every one can be tailored to your interests.

Each river has a distinct ecosystem—and a different shade of water(!)—that influences the rich culture and ancient traditions of the riverside communities you’ll meet along the way. Learn about their sustainable lifestyles and artisan crafts, explore remote rainforest trails, paddle along flooded igapó forests, and swim in mirror-still lagoons. Every outing, whether by canoe or guided hike, reveals the overwhelming biodiversity and spiritual presence of the forest—an experience enriched by your local guides’ deep knowledge and storytelling.

Sailing aboard Tupaiú is a chance to reconnect with the wilderness and yourself. With only your closest companions and nature as far as the eye can see, you’ll feel the rare silence of untouched Amazonian waters, taste the rhythms of a slower life, and experience a level of ‘wild’ that few travelers will ever reach. Perfect for couples, families, or private groups seeking meaningful adventure without the crowds, this journey will leave you feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and forever changed by the power of the rainforest.

Note: If your group is larger, Tupaiú has two larger sister boats—Belle Amazon (8 cabins, up to 16 guests) and Amazon Dolphin (11 cabins, up to 22 guests)—which can be chartered instead or in addition.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 4
4-Day
5-Day
5-Day REG
6-Day

4 Day - Essential Encounter

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Starting at 12 noon, we will board passengers from Alter do Chão and Santarém. To welcome you to the confluence of the forest with the vastness of the waters, we will stop at a charming beach on the Tapajós River.

Everyone is invited to take the first of many refreshing dives into the Amazon in Pará. From the green waters of the Tapajós, we will sail towards the white waters of the Jari Channel, part of the same ecosystem as the famous Amazon River. Because it is a nutrient-richer river, we can hear and observe the diversity of birds and other animal species. Get your camera ready: river dolphins may show up and swim alongside our boat. As we travel through this lush nature, we are rewarded with beautiful views of both varying shades of water and rich wildlife.

After toasting with local fruit drinks as the sun sets across the Amazon skyline, we will proceed to the black waters of the Arapiuns River surrounded by a sky full of stars. You will taste the delicious cuisine of Pará served on board in typical appetizers and dishes prepared by our team.

Tupaiú - Essential Encounter
Location
Santarém - Alter do Chão
Day
1 / 4

The Healing Power of the Forest

AM: Waking up every day to a different dazzling view of the Amazon - that is one of the delights of sailing with us. With the boat moored off a small white sand beach in front of Atodi Village, we will depart for an immersion in the primeval forest, guided by its guardians. A female chief, a medicine woman, and other women take the lead in this community and will guide us along the trail in the forest while telling us stories and sharing their knowledge.

The topic of the day is forest medicine, which will be presented to us along the hike and then we will see a demonstration of how plants and barks are used in the preparation of medicines.

The trail ends at a beautiful igarapé ( small river creek) of crystal-clear waters. We will return to the boat to rest, have lunch, and have free time to enjoy a bath in the river.

PM: At the end of the day, we will take a canoe ride in the Atodi lagoon. To the sound of the best music from Pará, a special dinner at the beach will be waiting for us to celebrate the coming of night.

Tupaiú - Essential Encounter
Location
Arapiuns River
Day
2 / 4

The Millennial Tradition of Flour

AM: After breakfast we will enrich our knowledge of the Amazon by visiting a typical casa de farinha (flourmill), where we are invited by the São Marcos community to watch the process of making cassava products – a staple food for forest peoples.

We will then return to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches of the entire Amazon. Our crew will be ready to prepare caipirinhas with local fruits, serve irresistible, traditional snacks, or hang a hammock under the shade of a tree for you.

PM: In the afternoon, we will meet the Coroca community, another important village in the region. We will visit the turtle lagoon and the nursery of the turtle recovery project and take a break at the beautiful shop of high-quality, original handicrafts made by the community. We will have a real lesson on the importance of sustainable tourism for the preservation of wildlife and all the people who live off the forest.

In the evening, our crew will prepare a special farewell dinner.

Tupaiú - Essential Encounter
Location
Arapiuns River
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: One of the most magical moments of the trip is the Amazonian dawn, the coming of the sun creates a true festival of colors in the sky and in the reflection on the waters. We recommend getting up earlier so you don’t miss this show! To enjoy the last freshwater beach, we have a stop on the banks of the Tapajós before arriving in Alter do Chão.

We will disembark the group on or before 12 noon, according to your flight schedule. Our team will take the group to the transfer to the Airport of Santarém.

Tupaiú - Essential Encounter
Location
Alter do Chão - Santarém
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Amazonian Waters

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Starting at 12 noon, we will board passengers from Alter do Chão and Santarém. To welcome you to the confluence of the forest with the vastness of the waters, we will stop at a charming beach on the Tapajós River.

Everyone is invited to take the first of many refreshing dives into the Amazon in Pará. From the green waters of the Tapajós, we will sail towards the white waters of the Jari Channel, part of the same ecosystem as the famous Amazon River. Because it is a nutrient-richer river, we can hear and observe the diversity of birds and other animal species. Get your camera ready: river dolphins may show up and swim alongside our boat. As we travel through this lush nature, we are rewarded with beautiful views of both varying shades of water and rich wildlife.

After toasting with local fruit drinks as the sun sets across the Amazon skyline, we will proceed to the black waters of the Arapiuns River surrounded by a sky full of stars.

You will taste the delicious cuisine of Pará served on board in typical appetizers and dishes prepared by our team.

Tupaiú - Amazonian Waters
Location
Santarém - Alter do Chão
Day
1 / 5

Atodi Village

AM: Waking up every day to a different dazzling view of the Amazon - that is one of the delights of sailing with us. With the boat moored off a small white sand beach in front of Atodi Village, we will depart for an immersion in the primeval forest, guided by its guardians. A female chief, a medicine woman, and other women take the lead in this community and will guide us along the trail in the forest while telling us stories and sharing their knowledge.

The topic of the day is forest medicine, which will be presented to us along the hike and then we will see a demonstration of how plants and barks are used in the preparation of medicines.

The trail ends at a beautiful igarapé ( small river creek) of crystal-clear waters. We will return to the boat to rest, have lunch, and have free time to enjoy a bath in the river.

PM: At the end of the day, we will take a canoe ride in the Atodi lagoon. To the sound of the best music from Pará, a special dinner at the beach will be waiting for us to celebrate the coming of night.

Tupaiú - Amazonian Waters
Location
Arapiuns River
Day
2 / 5

São Marcos and Coroca Communities

AM: After breakfast we will enrich our knowledge of the Amazon by visiting a typical casa de farinha (flourmill), where we are invited by the São Marcos community to watch the process of making cassava products – a staple food for forest peoples.

We will then return to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches of the entire Amazon. Our crew will be ready to prepare caipirinhas with local fruits, serve irresistible, traditional snacks, or hang a hammock under the shade of a tree for you.

PM: In the afternoon, we will meet the Coroca community, another important village in the region. We will visit the turtle lagoon and the nursery of the turtle recovery project and take a break at the beautiful shop of high-quality, original handicrafts made by the community. We will have a real lesson on the importance of sustainable tourism for the preservation of wildlife and all the people who live off the forest. In the evening, our crew will prepare another special dinner.

Tupaiú - Amazonian Waters
Location
Arapiuns River
Day
3 / 5

Jamaraquá Community

AM-PM: Today wake up in the Tapajós National Forest, an important nature reserve with over 500,000 hectares (1,930 square miles). We will moor in front of the Jamaraquá community, surrounded by pristine nature, and if the group feels like it, we will take a long hike through the primary forest to reach the famous giant kapok tree (samaúma) and venture into one of the most beautiful creeks in the Amazon.

Nicknamed the “grandma of the forest” because the tree is about 600 years old according to expert calculations, this Amazon giant is extremely generous. Its long branches and dense canopy provide a home and support for several species of plants, birds, and other animals. The hike can be shortened, according to the group’s preference.

After revering this majestic forest, we will return to the boat to relax on the beach and wait for an evening canoe ride to observe the stars and nocturnal animals.

Tupaiú - Amazonian Waters
Location
Tapajós National Forest
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: One of the most magical moments of the trip is the Amazonian dawn, the coming of the sun creates a true festival of colors in the sky and in the reflection on the waters. We recommend getting up earlier so as not to miss this show! To enjoy the last freshwater beach, we will make a stop on the banks of the Tapajós before arriving in Alter do Chão.

We will disembark on or before 12 noon, according to your flight schedule. Our team will take the group by private transfer to the Airport of Santarém.

Tupaiú - Amazonian Waters
Location
Alter do Chão - Santarém
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

5 Day - Amazônia Essencial

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: From the airplane window, the immensity of freshwater of the Amazon in Pará welcomes you to Santarém! Our team awaits you at the airport for the 30-minute drive to Alter do Chão, where we will board from 3:00 p.m.

After settling in, there will be an introduction to the boat and safety procedures, followed by a baptism with a first dip in the Tapajós River. Free time for swimming.

You can also explore one of the friendliest villages in the entire Amazon, which boasts good restaurants along the waterfront and around a charming central square, as well as shops selling indigenous crafts.

Dinner on board is included.

Tupaiú - Amazônia Essencial
Location
Santarém - Alter do Chão
Day
1 / 5

The Giant Kapok Tree in the Tapajós National Forest

AM: Shortly after breakfast, we will disembark in the Tapajós National Forest (also known as FLONA), an important conservation area spanning over 500,000 hectares (1,235,500 acres). We will moor near the Jamaraquá community, surrounded by pristine nature, and if the group is up to it, we will embark on a long hike through the primary forest, exploring one of the most enchanting streams in the Amazon until we reach the legendary giant kapok tree (samaúma).

Nicknamed the “grandma of the forest” for its impressive 600 years, according to expert calculations, this Amazon giant is extremely generous. Its long branches and dense canopy provide a home and support for several species of plants, birds, and other animals. The hike can be shortened, according to the group’s preference.

PM: We return for lunch onboard. Free afternoon for swim in the Tapajós river. The highlight for this evening is to go up to the deck to admire the sky, stars, and the sounds of the Amazon rainforest.

Tupaiú - Amazônia Essencial
Location
Tapajós National Forest
Day
2 / 5

The Amazon Dawn and its famous blackwater river

AM: In the morning, we will arrive at the Jari Channel, a small branch of the mighty Amazon River, where we will see its diverse fauna treasures. One of the greatest spectacles is the Amazon dawn! Listening to the symphony of birds in this precious universe is a moment reserved for a few adventurers. Then we will continue navigating until we reach the blackwaters of the Arapiuns River, with its stunning forest scenery and white sand beaches. Get your camera ready: river dolphins may show up to accompany our journey.

PM: In the late afternoon, we will meet the Coroca community, another important village in the region. We will visit the turtle lagoon and the nursery of the turtle recovery project and take a break at the beautiful shop of high-quality, original handicrafts made by the community. We will have a real lesson on the importance of sustainable tourism for the preservation of wildlife and all the people who live off the forest.

After resting from the excursion, we will serve a special dinner on board, carefully prepared by our crew with the best of Pará cuisine.

Tupaiú - Amazônia Essencial
Location
Jari Channel - Coroca Community
Day
3 / 5

The Millennial Tradition of Flour Production

AM: On this day, we will enrich our knowledge of the Amazon by visiting, right after breakfast, a typical casa de farinha (flourmill), where we are invited by the São Marcos community to watch the process of making cassava products – a staple food for forest peoples.

PM: We will return to relax and enjoy the beach. Our crew will be ready to prepare caipirinhas with local fruits, serve irresistible, traditional snacks, or hang a hammock under the shade of a tree for you.

To celebrate the last night of the trip, we will meticulously prepare a special dinner on the beach with the traditional Piracaia: grilled fish.

Tupaiú - Amazônia Essencial
Location
São Marcos Community
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: On the last day of the trip, we will wake up in the green waters of the Tapajós River, with a stop for a farewell swim.

Then we will return to Alter do Chão for disembarkation. Our team will guide the group to the transfer to Santarém Airport, considering that most passengers usually board the flight around noon.

Tupaiú - Amazônia Essencial
Location
Alter do Chão - Santarém
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

6 Day - Deep Immersion

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Starting at 12 noon, we will board passengers from Alter do Chão and Santarém. To welcome you to the confluence of the forest with the vastness of the waters, we will stop at a charming beach on the Tapajós River.

Everyone is invited to take the first of many refreshing dives into the Amazon in Pará. From the green waters of the Tapajós, we will sail towards the white waters of the Jari Channel, part of the same ecosystem as the famous Amazon River. Because it is a nutrient-richer river, we can hear and observe the diversity of birds and other animal species. Get your camera ready: river dolphins may show up and swim alongside our boat. As we travel through this lush nature, we are rewarded with beautiful views of both varying shades of water and rich wildlife.

After toasting with local fruit drinks as the sun sets across the Amazon skyline, we will proceed to the black waters of the Arapiuns River surrounded by a sky full of stars.

You will taste the delicious cuisine of Pará served on board in typical appetizers and dishes prepared by our team.

Tupaiú - Deep Immersion
Location
Santarém - Alter do Chão
Day
1 / 6

Atodi Village

AM: Waking up every day to a different dazzling view of the Amazon - that is one of the delights of sailing with us. With the boat moored off a small white sand beach in front of Atodi Village, we will depart for an immersion in the primeval forest, guided by its guardians. A female chief, a medicine woman, and other women take the lead in this community and will guide us along the trail in the forest while telling us stories and sharing their knowledge.

The topic of the day is forest medicine, which will be presented to us along the hike and then we will see a demonstration of how plants and barks are used in the preparation of medicines.

The trail ends at a beautiful igarapé ( small river creek) of crystal-clear waters. We will return to the boat to rest, have lunch, and have free time to enjoy a bath in the river.

PM: At the end of the day, we will take a canoe ride in the Atodi lagoon. To the sound of the best music from Pará, a special dinner at the beach will be waiting for us to celebrate the coming of night.

Tupaiú - Deep Immersion
Location
Arapiuns River
Day
2 / 6

São Marcos and Coroca Communities

AM: After breakfast we will enrich our knowledge of the Amazon by visiting a typical casa de farinha (flourmill), where we are invited by the São Marcos community to watch the process of making cassava products – a staple food for forest peoples.

We will then return to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches of the entire Amazon. Our crew will be ready to prepare caipirinhas with local fruits, serve irresistible, traditional snacks, or hang a hammock under the shade of a tree for you.

PM: Late in the afternoon, we will meet the Coroca community, another important village in the region. We will visit the turtle lagoon and the nursery of the turtle recovery project and take a break at the beautiful shop of high-quality, original handicrafts made by the community. We will have a real lesson on the importance of sustainable tourism for the preservation of wildlife and all the people who live off the forest.

In the evening, our crew will prepare another special dinner.

Tupaiú - Deep Immersion
Location
Arapiuns River
Day
3 / 6

Jamaraquá Community

AM-PM: Wake up in the Tapajós National Forest, an important nature reserve with over 500,000 hectares (1,930 square miles). We will moor in front of the Jamaraquá community, surrounded by pristine nature, and if the group feels like it, we will take a long hike through the primeval forest to reach the famous giant kapok tree (samaúma) and venture into one of the most beautiful creeks in the Amazon.

Nicknamed the “grandma of the forest” because the tree is about 600 years old according to expert calculations, this Amazon giant is extremely generous. Its long branches and dense canopy provide a home and support for several species of plants, birds, and other animals. The hike can be shortened, according to the group’s preference.

After revering this majestic forest, we will sail in the evening for a special gathering in the Munduruku Village, where our hosts are an indigenous tribe that has been slowly rescuing the traditions of their ancestors.

Tupaiú - Deep Immersion
Location
Tapajós National Forest
Day
4 / 6

Bragança Indigenous Village : Munduruku

AM: The indigenous people of the Bragança Village welcome us back to their village to kindly show us their daily life and traditions and teach us some essential skills to live in the forest. Conversation circles, body painting workshop, bow and arrow making, and archery practice are part of our immersion in the Munduruku culture. We will be led to deconstruct stereotypes about the indigenous population to understand all the complexity and importance of the role of the true guardians of the Amazon in the current global context.

PM: In the afternoon, we will head to one of the most beautiful beaches on the Tapajós River, where we will rest and prepare for the farewell dinner.

Tupaiú - Deep Immersion
Location
Tapajós River
Day
5 / 6

Disembarkation

AM: One of the most magical moments of the trip is the Amazonian dawn, the coming of the sun creates a true festival of colors in the sky and in the reflection on the waters. We recommend getting up earlier so as not to miss this show and you can take one last farewell dive into the Tapajós River before arriving in Alter do Chão.

We will disembark on or before 12 noon, according to your flight schedule. Our team will take the group to the transfer to the Airport of Santarém, which is included in the trip.

Tupaiú - Deep Immersion
Location
Alter do Chão - Santarém
Day
6 / 6
1 / 6

Accommodations

Social Areas

Top Deck
Alfresco Dining
Outdoors Area
Dining
Exterior Corridors
Buffet Station

Suites & Cabins

Tupaiú - Master Cabin
1 Cabin

Master Cabin

Guests
2
Size
6 m²/67 ft²
Beds
Double

The Tupaiú features one Master Cabin, which includes a private bathroom. This cabin offers the most spacious accommodation on the boat and is designed for comfort and relaxation during your Amazon cruise.

Tupaiú - Double Cabin
2 Cabins

Double Cabin

Guests
2
Size
5 m²/57 ft²
Beds
Double

The two Double Cabins, have an en-suite private bathroom. These cabins offer comfortable accommodation with a double bed, ensuring a pleasant stay while exploring the Amazon.

Tupaiú - Bunk Cabin
1 Cabin

Bunk Cabin

Guests
2
Size
3 m²/33 ft²
Beds
Bunkbeds

The Tupaiú has one bunk cabin, which has a bathroom located just outside the room. This cabin offers a practical and space-efficient sleeping arrangement with bunk beds, suitable for guests looking for a more budget-friendly option or for families with children.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Air conditioning
  • All inclusive
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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