Best River Cruises for Nature Lovers

While ocean voyages offer a perfect panorama of the world, a river cruise places you right in the midst of the action. 

Smaller ships provide a more intimate setting, and the diverse, ever-changing surroundings create a sense of experiencing nature from within. Coupled with ample opportunities to disembark and explore wondrous sights along the way, river cruises are becoming an increasingly popular adventure getaway.

So, if you’re a nature lover and come across a last-minute cruise deal or river cruise package, keep these four rivers in mind.

The Amazon

With miles of untamed jungle filled with a wide variety of biodiversity, it doesn’t get much better for a nature-lover than the world-famous Amazon River.

Countries you’ll cruise through

• Peru
• Brazil
• Ecuador

Highlights 

• Spot pink river dolphins, sloths, monkeys, snakes, panthers, and dozens of bird species. 
• Experience the grandeur of the region in flooded forests and blackwater tributaries.
• Go on night safaris and take deep treks through uncharted jungles with local experts.

Insider tips

• Remember to pack long sleeves and pants, insect repellent, waterproof shoes, and dry bags.
• Opt for cruises that take you to the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve or Anavilhanas Archipelago.

The Danube

For a European flavor with wetlands, wolves, and Eastern magic, consider river cruises on the Danube River, much of which is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. 

Countries you’ll cruise through

• Germany
• Austria
• Slovakia
• Hungary
• Croatia
• Serbia
• Romania
• Bulgaria

Highlights 

• Birdwatch for 300+ species along the river, including pelicans, herons, and reed beds.
• Explore the many natural reed islands, a distinguishing feature of the Delta. 
• Visit Iron Gates Gorge to admire the dramatic limestone cliffs.

Insider tips

• Pick a cruise that takes you off the beaten path to places like Kalocsa or Belogradchik.
• Confirm that your itinerary includes the Delta, because some don’t, and it’s not to be missed!

The Rhine

If Western Europe is more your scene, consider a Rhine River cruise to experience the towering cliffs, lush vineyards, and medieval castles along the river.

Countries you’ll cruise through

• Switzerland
• Liechtenstein
• Germany
• France
• Netherlands

Highlights 

• Visit the iconic Lorelei Rock, with hillside ruins and steep terraced vineyards.
• Hike through Black Forest trails or the Alsatian countryside to see the stunning autumn foliage or spring wildflowers.
• Head to the Rhine Gorge (another UNESCO site) to see forested cliffs and castle-topped hills.

Insider tips

• Make sure your cruise passes through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley for hiking excursions. 
• Spring and autumn are the best seasons for nature lovers.

The Douro

Cruises on the Douro River may only travel through a couple of countries, but what they lack in international diversity, they make up for with stunning landscapes and Iberian beauty. 

Countries you’ll cruise through

• Portugal
• Spain

Highlights

• Spot eagles, falcons, and vultures along rolling hills and unspoiled valleys.
• Walk among wild almond and olive groves teeming with spring wildflowers. 
• Drink wine at a terraced vineyard on the slopes of the Douro Valley.

Insider tips

• Pick a cruise that takes you near Peso da Régua, a quaint city in northern Portugal.
• Hop the train between Porto and the Douro Valley for one of Europe’s most scenic rides.