Expedition River Cruise FAQ
Straight answers about cruising the world’s wilder rivers.
Get Free QuotesThe questions we hear most about Amazon, Mekong, India, Chobe and Magdalena river cruises.
Expedition River Cruise FAQ
What makes a river cruise an “expedition”?
Remote rivers, small ships, and days built around nature and culture rather than city sightseeing. You spend time in skiffs and tenders, guided by naturalists and local experts, in places with few roads or tourist facilities.
Which expedition river is best for a first trip?
For wildlife, the Peruvian Amazon or the Chobe. For culture and history, the Mekong or the Ganges. For an easier tropical trip with colonial towns and music, the Magdalena in Colombia. Our cruise advisors can help you choose.
How long are these cruises?
The river portion is often short: three to seven nights on the Amazon, Magdalena and Chobe, about a week on the Mekong and Ganges, and longer on some Indian expeditions. Most travelers add land stays before and after.
Are expedition river cruises suitable for older travelers?
Many guests are retirees. You should be able to manage steps into small boats with help, walk on uneven ground, and cope with heat. If mobility is limited, tell us early so we can suggest the most suitable ship and excursions.
Do I need vaccinations?
Possibly. Advice depends on the country and your health; yellow fever, hepatitis A, typhoid and malaria prevention are common topics. Check the CDC Travelers’ Health site for each country and see a travel clinic well before departure.
Is it safe to swim in the river?
Only where your guides say so. On some rivers swimming is part of the program in specific spots; on others, such as the Chobe with its crocodiles and hippos, it is never allowed.
What is included in the fare?
It varies by line. Expedition ships commonly include meals, guided excursions and some drinks; flights, visas, tips and pre- or post-cruise hotels may or may not be included. We will spell out exactly what each quote covers.
Which expedition river is best for wildlife photography?
The Chobe offers big game at close range from small boats, which is hard to beat for photographers. The Peruvian Amazon is outstanding for birds, primates and river dolphins, though the light under the canopy is more challenging. Bring a zoom lens and spare batteries.
How far ahead should I book?
Expedition ships are small, so popular departures can fill a year or more ahead, especially in peak seasons. Booking early also gives you time for visas and health preparation.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend it. Choose a policy that covers medical care and emergency evacuation, since remote rivers can be far from major hospitals, as well as trip cancellation and interruption.
Can I book through your site?
You can request free quotes. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise compare options, answer questions and handle the booking with the cruise line for you.
Do you cover river cruises in Europe and the USA too?
Yes, elsewhere in our network. See River Cruise Guide, Luxury Riverboat Cruises and US River Cruising for those rivers, and River Cruising News for the latest announcements.
Keep Reading
What to Expect
Skiffs, wildlife timing, heat, health prep and packing.
The Amazon
Peru’s upper Amazon and Brazil’s Rio Negro compared.
The Mekong
The delta, Phnom Penh and the road to Angkor.
More single-river depth on our sister sites: amazonrivercruising.com, mekongriverboatcruises.com, gangesrivercruises.com, brahmaputrarivercruise.com and africanrivercruises.com.
Still Have Questions?
Ask our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise. We will answer honestly and send free quotes when you are ready.
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