The Brazilian Amazon is an extraordinary and unique region known for its exceptional natural wonders and rich biodiversity.
Travelling to the Amazon jungle camps usually requires a stay in Manaus for at least one night as (depending on where you stay) you usually leave in the morning for two/three hours transfer to arrive by lunchtime.
Manaus is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest and serves as a gateway to the incredible wonders of the Amazon region.
Downtown Manaus is certainly worth a visit with some great little hotels, the city square opposite the stunning Opera house. Take in the atmosphere where you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants that offer a glimpse into the local culture and cuisine.
Manaus is a perfect starting point for exploring the Amazon rainforest, offering a variety of excursions to experience this unique ecosystem up close, including boat trips, jungle treks, and visits to indigenous communities. Among the must-visit destinations near Manaus is the Anavilhanas Archipelago, which is a stunning cluster of islands and river channels. Here, you can navigate through the winding waterways, observe diverse wildlife, and bask in the tranquillity of the untouched rainforest. You could also spot incredible wildlife like pink river dolphins, monkeys, sloths, and a vast array of bird species.
So Why is The Brazilian Amazon so Special:
It has ecological importance, cultural heritage and awesome beauty. This in turn makes it unbelievably precious and a very valuable part of our planet. The Brazilian Amazon is home to the largest rainforest in the world, covering approximately 60% of Brazil’s territory. It has an incredible array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. It is a treasure trove of diverse flora and fauna with 30% of the world’s plant and animal species living here. This including jaguars, sloths, anacondas, toucans, and countless other species.
Numerous indigenous communities inhabit the region and have a deep connection to the land. They take pride in preserving their ancestral traditions, knowledge of the forest, and sustainable ways of living. The rainforest is a treasure trove of medicinal plants, estimated to contain thousands of plant species which the indigenous communities rely on for their health and well-being. Having spent a morning visiting one of the communities, they showed me medication for cataract issues, fever, sickness, diabetes and even hangovers! It is actually quite remarkable when you can smell and taste some of the medications that we take for granted from our local pharmacy.
The Brazilian Amazon offers unique opportunities for ecotourism. Here you will have the chance to explore the rainforest through guided hikes, canoe trips, and wildlife spotting (day and night) as well as seeing stunning sunrises and supporting sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities.
