The Amazon rainforest seems like a mythological place and far from our reality. It’s not only the largest rainforest in the world— covering six countries: Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, French Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela— it is also one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
If you have the Amazon rainforest on your list of places to travel one day, we’ve compiled this list to entice you even more to start your planning.
1. Why Travel to The Amazon
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Traveling to the Amazon Forest is a great opportunity to learn about the plurality of indigenous and Black communities in the region and about the colonization and resistance of the local people of the forest.
This is also an excellent time to disconnect and practice slow travel and sustainable tourism.
2. Where to stay
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The famous jungle hotels are usually the choice of those looking for a “soft” immersion, that is, relatively close to the city and in comfort. Packages include a boat trip, visits to riverside communities and observation of wild animals.
Some of the most famous and traditional jungle hotels in the Amazon are: Anavilhanas Eco Lodge, Amazon, Ecopark Jungle Lodge, Juma Amazon Lodge, and Uakari Lodge.
3. Take a boat trip through the Amazon rivers
In the Amazon, rivers are the roads and distances are counted in days. A real experience through this region requires at least one boat trip. It can be done as a tour, or even on a cruise.
We recommend that you travel like the locals, by taking a boat at the port, like taking a bus at a bus station. Those who try this type of the adventure usually say the reward is in the exchange provided by the dialogue with people from different communities.
4. Eating local food
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As anywhere in the world, trying the cuisine is part of the experience. In the Amazon, most of the dishes consumed are prepared with foods that only exist there. From street food to sophisticated restaurants— get ready for new flavors.
If cuisine is the main reason for your trip, spend more time in Belém. The capital of Pará is known for its mixture of influences: indigenous base with an African and Portuguese touch.
5. Visiting Anavilhanas National Park
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Anavilhanas National Park offers a unique setting with countless possibilities for different vibes, experiences and a labyrinth of islands and mirrored black waters that change with the variation of the river level.
6. Visiting Marajó Island, the largest river-maritime island in the world
Marajó Island is the largest river-maritime island in the world. There, you can enjoy several beaches, hike in the mangrove, take a boat ride among giant trees and discover local indigenous crafts.
On the island, you’ll also see hundreds of buffaloes, which boost the island’s economy. Tourists can taste the meat and cheese, the local way.
7. Climbing Monte Roraima
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The iconic rock formation, on the border between Brazil, Guyana and Venezuela, can be hard to access, and you will need to hire a specialized travel agency.
Once there, you will need to spend about four days walking and encountering the unique and breathtaking landscapes.
8. Visiting Pedro Figueiredo
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There are more than 100 waterfalls of different sizes and shapes, in addition to rapids. There are also opportunities for extreme sports such as rafting, kayaking, zip line, rappelling, caving, tree climbing and jungle trails.
9. Swimming with the pink dolphin
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One of the most exotic animals you can see in Manaus is the pink dolphin also known as boto. Its color is due to the circulation of blood.
There are tours to see, swim and feed the pink dolphins. It is also family-friendly.