River cruises along the Amazon and its tributaries are one of the best ways to experience the Peruvian jungle. Cruises give travelers the option of floating luxury and good meals, as well as the ability to stop in and see several different environments and river and jungle communities. The huge and remote Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is one of the best and most up-and-coming zones for cruises into pristine jungle and wetlands. Iquitos-based Jungle Expeditions (tel. 065/262-340; www.junglex.com) and Green Tracks Amazon Tours & Cruises (tel. 800/892-1035; www.amazontours.net) offer a variety of river cruises in the northern Amazon, and International Expeditions (tel. 800/633-4734; www.internationalexpeditions.com) is one of the most experienced tour operators organizing luxurious river cruises from the United States. But by far the coolest thing in cruises is the newest entry in the Peruvian water, upscale Aqua Expeditions (tel. 866/603-3687; www.aquaexpeditions.com), a sleek modern ship with haute cuisine by a famous Peruvian chef that's far from your typical boat or cruise fare.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.