Amazon River, PERU
Airing Date: May 14th, 2002
The Amazon River is absolutely huge; it spans across 9 countries and contains one-fifth of the world's fresh water. It is these mysterious but magical wonders of the Amazon that have drawn tourists to the area for hundreds of years.
Due to the enormous nature of the river a guided tour is a must. While on tour you can hunt for that ferocious fish the piranha.
Your fishing equipment doesn't have to be fancy to catch one, a simple stick with a line will do. Plenty of splashing to mimic an injured animal is also needed to attract the attention of the fish.
Like sharks, red bellied piranhas are attracted to the smell of blood so meat rather than worms will catch the feisty fish.
Don't be fooled by the size of this fish, they are small but very savage and have exceptionally sharp teeth. Fishermen have lost fingers and toes removing hooks from their mouths.
For lunch you guessed it, the catch of the day - piranha. If you're wondering what it tastes like it's a lot like snapper.
A relaxing 30 minute boat ride along the river will have you passing numerous, tiny, river side villages and gives you a chance to see the locals at work and play.
At night Ceiba Tops Amazon Lodge, the newest and only luxury resort on the Amazon River is a welcomed resting place.
The facts
Qantas in conjunction with Lan Chile flies to Santiago three times a week. Prices start from $1899 per person from the east coast.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
Group TACA flies from Santiago to Lima daily, their Latin Air Flex Pass start from $428.
Group TACA
Tel: 02 9252 5216
Inca Tours has three night packages to Ceiba Tops Amazon Lodge starting from $1085 per person twin share. This includes return flights from Lima, boat transfers from Iquitos, accommodation, all meals and excursions.
Inca Tours
Tel: 1800 024 955
Email: sales@incatours.net
