Conservation with Delfin in the Peruvian Amazon

We’ve always believed that the most meaningful conservation efforts come from those who call a place home. In Peru’s Amazon, that commitment runs deep with our partners at Delfin Amazon Cruises. Family-owned and community-rooted, Delfin’s approach to conservation is as fluid and organic as the river itself—shaped by experience, relationships, and a powerful sense of place.

Founders Aldo Macchiavello and Lissy Urteaga made the amazon their home nearly 20 years ago and have been inviting travelers to discover the wonders of the Amazon not just as guests, but as participants in a shared future ever since. Now, with the launch of a dedicated sustainability department Delfin is stepping forward with even more intention to continue their story of conservation and expand their impact.

Conservation with Heart, Grown from Within

Delfin’s approach isn’t about appearances. As Lissy puts it, “We don’t want to be seen. We want to blend in.” That belief guides everything—from the way their vessels are designed to navigate deep into remote reserves, to their long-term partnerships with local villages, guides, and artisans.

The Kuyapa Foundation, founded by Lissy, began as a small empowerment project with six women. Today, more than 200 women participate—creating beautiful, sustainable handicrafts that are featured in every corner of Delfin’s ships and available for guests to purchase. What began as a way to elevate women’s economic opportunities has grown into a powerful conservation tool: reducing dependence on illegal poaching by turning natural materials into art, income, and pride.

A Living Classroom of Conservation

Whether reforesting with local students, partnering with scientists to study pink river dolphins, or returning endangered taricaya turtle eggs to the wild, Delfin’s projects reflect an ethos of stewardship and reciprocity.

Their stingless bee project offers locals an opportunity to learn beekeeping to produce honey, pollen and wax without the risk of stinging (as the Meliponine species is stingless), while their farm-to-table garden (developed with the help of local high school students) improves diet diversity and agricultural skills in the region.

Delfin doesn’t present conservation as a marketing tagline. Instead, they invite guests into an evolving story—one where indigenous knowledge, scientific inquiry, and hands-on care intersect in surprising and beautiful ways.

Why We Travel with Delfin

We admire Delfin for many reasons: the quality of their vessels, the excellence of their guides, the wonder of their itineraries. But what we value most is the integrity with which they operate. This is their backyard, their home, and their legacy—and they protect it with the kind of care that can’t be faked.

As larger operators move into the region, Delfin’s deep roots and thoughtful presence stand apart. They don’t just explore the Amazon—they enrich it.

Travel to the Peruvian Amazon

Explore the Peruvian Amazon on a Custom Peru adventure–our team will tailor a journey just for you.

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