Adventurous Families Banish Boring From Summer Vacation On Exotic Amazon Rainforest Getaways

HELENA, Ala., Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Families are discovering new ways to escape the dog days of summer and explore the depths of the rainforest on exotic Amazon expedition cruises.

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International Expeditions, the world leader in authentic and engaging nature travel, is catering to multi-generational travelers on these small-group adventures combining comfort, education and rare opportunities to "unplug" in the wilds of South America.  

"It's rare to be able to enjoy quality time with family," said Maggie Hart, IE President. "What I love about our Amazon River cruises is that there are no distractions — other than the wildlife — to keep families from catching up with each other. That's not something you find at theme parks."

With only 28 passengers aboard the riverboat La Amatista, IE's family cruise lends itself to an intimate atmosphere and individualized attention. Plus, International Expeditions travels more than 600 miles into the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve for the best opportunity to encounter rare birdlife and spot the Amazon's storied pink river dolphins.

"I looked forward to every excursion and seeing new animals and birds," said 16-year-old Emily Ann, who traveled to the Amazon with her family in 2010. "Every day had something new and exciting!"

Families get acquainted with Amazonian culture when they visit a local village and school. Following the school visit, village elders take guests for guided walks, narrated with folklore and teachings about medicinal plants and traditions. Guests have also been known to pick-up a friendly soccer game.

Other kid-friendly highlights include dug-out canoe trips and piranha fishing. While mom and dad (or the grandparents) enjoy happy hour or a siesta, younger guests learn to play Peruvian instruments, sip frozen lemonade and make their own soccer jerseys.

Family voyages depart July 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2011 with prices from $3,498 per person for adults and $3,348 per child ages 7-18. The cost includes accommodations, excursions, complimentary laundry aboard La Amatista, most meals and transfers.

International Expeditions has specialized in small-group journeys to Earth's most exhilarating destinations for 31 years. IE has been named to Travel + Leisure's list of "World's Best" tour operators for seven years and to National Geographic ADVENTURE magazine's list of "Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth."

For more information or a brochure on the Amazon River Cruise, call International Expeditions at 1-800-234-9620 or e-mail [email protected].

SOURCE International Expeditions