tours to manaus

THE 10 BEST Manaus Tours & Excursions

Tours in manaus.

• Multi-day Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Night Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. A Whole Day in the Jungle

2. Amazon Experience: meet a native village and swim with porpoises

3. 3 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

4. 2 Days 1 Night at the Juma Lake Lodge

5. Amazon Safari from Manaus

6. Meeting of the Waters & Pink Dolphin Tour with Lunch

7. Amazon Negro River Half-Day Expedition Tour

8. Amazing Waterfalls of the Amazon - Presidente Figueiredo

9. River Day Tour from Manaus

10. Amazon Jungle Experience with Overnight

11. Amazon Waterfalls Tour

12. Amazon Explore 4D/3N-At Amazon Tapiri Floating Lodge

13. 4 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

14. The Manaus Express City Tour

15. One Night Adventure in the Jungle

16. 8-Hour Amazonas Jungle Treck & Anavilhanas Archipelago

17. Indian Village and Meeting of the Waters Tour

18. Solimoes River Piranha Fishing and Alligator Watching Tour

19. Amazon and Negro Rivers Experience with Night Exploration Tour

20. Amazon Private Safari by Tuhiri Eco Tour - Leaving Manaus

21. Private Transfer 24h Airport to Hotel in Manaus

22. Private city tour through the historic center of Manaus

23. Private River Tour by Speedboat in the Amazon, Lily Pads & Nature

24. Adventure: 4-hour hike in the Amazon rainforest

25. Jungle Walking with Caves and Waterfalls in Amazon Full Day Tour

26. Transfers from the airport to any place in Manaus City

27. Amazon Survival Tour 4D/3N

28. Tour to Presidente Figueiredo Waterfalls

29. Jewish Tour in Manaus in the Amazon from 4 to 5 hours

30. Taste of the Amazon Jungle 3D-2N-A Amazon Tapiri Floating Lodge

What travellers are saying.

• A Whole Day in the Jungle
• Amazon Negro River Half-Day Expedition Tour
• 3 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour
• Amazon Experience: meet a native village and swim with porpoises
• River Day Tour from Manaus
• Aventurei Turismo
• Amazon Green Tours
• Iguana Turismo
• Amazon Gero Tours
• Amazon Eco Adventures Tours
• Olimpio Carneiro Turismo
• Ney Eco Adventures

A Travel Guide to Manaus, Brazil

E.Hanazaki Photography / Getty Images

There will usually be one of two reasons to travel to Manaus, as most people exploring the region will either be visitors keen to see the wonders of the Amazon  or business people there to support the management of the area's natural resources.

In terms of the city's attractions, the main role of the city is as a gateway to the Brazilian Amazon , and there are plenty of companies offering tours and different ways to see the rainforest . There is also the confluence of two rivers, which is why the city is located where it is, and some wonderful colonial architecture to be seen in the city too.

The Meeting of the Waters

The city center is located on the banks of the Rio Negro, but just a few miles south of the city, the river joins with the Rio Solimoes, and it is here that the real Amazon River begins.

One of the most impressive sights in the region is the point where these two rivers meet, and you can see the blue water of the Rio Solimoes meeting the brown water of the Rio Negro, and there are even boat trips that allow you to see up close where the waters meet.

Exploring the Amazing Amazon Around the City

Most people who come to the city will travel during the wet season between December and May when the rain cools the air and makes the temperatures that average thirty degrees centigrade a little more bearable.​

There are several trips available to allow you to explore the Amazon, but be prepared to carry everything you need in waterproof bags, and make sure you have good waterproof clothing.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy some of the most enjoyable experiences in the region, and these can include meeting the tribes that live in the rainforest in the region around Manaus. You can also take jungle trips either by boat or on foot, while tree climbing classes in the Amazon are perfect for adventurous families exploring the area.

The Teatro Amazonas is at the heart of the cultural life in the city and is an opera house that was built when the rubber trade in the city was at its height, and you can get English language tours of the building, or enjoy one of the free shows.

A short distance from the city center is the Natural Science Museum, where you can see preserved examples of the wildlife of the area, along with some of the live exhibits that show a few of the Amazonian species of the region.

What to Eat

Food in the region is quite different to what you will experience elsewhere in Brazil and South America , and as manioc is one of the main crops in the area, the 'tapioquinha' is a pancake made with manioc flour that is filled with palm fruits and cheese.

There are also some nice soups such as the 'tacaca' that you will find on the menus here, and make sure that you try sugar cane juice, which is very sweet and one of the most popular drinks, particularly among the local population.

Getting in and Around the City

Because of the limited road connections, the majority of those traveling into the city will do so by airplane, with international connections coming through either Rio or Sao Paulo .

There are also ferry connections if you are planning to travel along the river. There is a good bus network in the city itself, and there are also taxis if you need to get somewhere a little more urgently.

The airport is around fifteen miles from the city center, and taxi journeys to and from the city are around 75 reals, while buses 306 and 813 offer connections that cost between 2.50 and 5 reals.

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Lonely Plan-it: How to float down the Amazon and enjoy memorable meals around Manaus, Brazil

Oct 3, 2023 • 8 min read

A cruise down the mighty Amazon on the bucket list of most adventurous travelers. Here’s how to plan yours © Ramesh Thadani / Getty Images

It’s almost impossible to understate the allure of the Amazon .

The world’s largest rainforest enjoys myth-like travel status among curiosity seekers and adventurers – despite being one of the muggiest, wettest and notoriously difficult places to navigate on Earth.

The contrasts in modernity, lifestyle, food, nature and personality between the megalopolis of São Paulo , Brazil ’s largest city, and Manaus , the Amazon’s largest city – 2691km (1672 miles) between them, as the macaw flies – are startling, especially so for two places within one same (huge) country. You can be certain that the capital of the Brazilian state of Amazonas isn’t going to be anything like your home, either.

And therein lies its appeal.

Sitting at the confluence of the blackwater Rio Negro – the largest left tributary of the Amazon – and the khaki-toned Rio Solimões – the 1609km(1000-mile)-long, 80km(50-mile)-wide upper section of the Amazon – Manaus has defiantly dug in among one of Mother Nature’s most superlative environments, determined to live off a land that, while deeply unforgiving, serves up an exotic cornucopia of nature and nurture to those who respect its wonder.

A visit here is equally extraordinary: unparalleled biodiversity and feats of the natural world await outside a breakneck jungle metropolis, filled with far-flung foods, frenetic markets and river-driven way of life. Besides Belém in the neighboring state of Pará (the Amazon’s other big city of note), Manaus knows no peers. You’re in the thick of it here – and that’s precisely the point. 

Step 1: Pick a time of year to visit

More wildlife during the dry season, or deeper access during the wet months?

The Amazon’s two distinct seasons – wet (high water) and dry (low water) – offer advantages and disadvantages that anyone visiting the jungle should carefully consider. The July-to-December dry season affords lower river levels and better wildlife-spotting potential from riverboat cruises. The January-to-May wet season is true to its name, bringing on rainier days and higher humidity, along with rising water levels that allow for better tributary access via such alternative transport methods as canoes.

June is the sweet spot: water levels remain high and scenery is at its greenest from the rainy season, but rainfall drops off as the jungle transitions to the drier period. The wet season obviously yields more mosquitos (one of the Amazon’s greatest nuisances), but in reality the difference is negligible – they remain a year-round menace. From a price perspective, costs rise during the Brazilian summer (December to February), so there are deals to be had outside of those months.

Step 2: Sort out your visa situation for Brazil

Check ahead for ever-changing policies.

While citizens from Australia, Canada and the USA have enjoyed visa-free travel for tourism stays up to 90 days for several years now, thanks to fluid politics and reciprocity agreements Brazil’s visa policies change more than most countries’. Case in point: beginning in January 2024, nationals of these countries will once again need a visa (citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Japan, South Africa and the EU remain visa-free at time of writing). It’s always best to both check (and apply, if necessary) well in advance of your planned travel dates at the website of Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or an authorized third-party visa facilitator. You will need to show your flight details as part of your application.

Step 3: Decide your desired level of comfort 

A rustic wooden ferry, or luxurious cruiser?

The Amazon is one of the world’s last great bastions of passenger river travel, and navigating the jungle via riverboat is the stuff of intrepid adventurers’ bucket lists. Boats for both travel and leisure depart Manaus regularly, running the gamut in quality and comfort. Budget motor yachts and rustic passenger ferries make up the jungle’s “highway” system, transporting residents and tourists to river settlements up and down river from Manaus. More-luxurious river cruises for tourism purposes also ply the region’s waters.

Are you looking for a refined experience or up for roughing it? The latter means stringing up a hammock on an open deck of a wooden ferry with up to 300 fellow travelers; luxurious cruises and floating resorts with all the finer things offer a more polished experience. You know what kind of traveler you are – important to keep in mind as you plan your Amazon trip. 

Step 4: Consider excursion options from Manaus and book ahead as far as possible

The Amazon is yours to discover – with some advance planning.

Wildlife and unspoiled nature have long been absent from Manaus’ direct vicinity, so the majority of the city’s visitors will be coming or going from adventures further afield in the jungle . That’s not to say there is nothing to do in the city itself – the wonderful Teatro Amazonas , a stunning belle-époque confection built during a rubber-boom bonanza, comes to mind – but Manaus is, in most cases, a (fascinating) transit point. Needless to say, the Amazon is popular – so always book excursions and jungle lodges as far in advance as possible. Here are some of the most in-demand excursions from Manaus.

Encontro das Águas

The city’s spectacular meeting of the waters – which merge but don’t seem to mix – is the easiest and most popular excursion from Manaus, its location just east of the city center making it for a perfect quick trip. The dramatically dissimilar Rio Negro and Solimões come head to head just off Manaus’s shoreline, refusing to yield for some 6km (4 miles). It makes for a wild natural phenomenon and is the city’s principal must-see, usually included on any day trip and/or passage to river lodges.

One of the closest pristine environments to the city, Rio Urubu’s intact ecosystem affords wildlife viewing opportunities aplenty within its dense flooded-forest environs, just two hours by road from Manaus. Jungle hikes, visits to local communities, overnight forest camping and a few notable jungle lodges are highlights here. Proximity to Manaus makes for a convenient option for time-limited visitors. 

Some 100km (62 miles) and three hours by boat southeast of Manaus, the Juma River unravels within a 17,000+-acre preserve that, while surrounded by ever-encroaching modernity, remains a rich and worthwhile ecosystem and preserved biodiversity hotspot. The river is so serene, folks joke it harbors a characteristic, lake-like calmness. With easy access from Manaus, it’s a popular spot, and several jungle lodges operate here. Top-end Juma Lodge comes highly recommended for its sustainable architecture and eco-forward ethos (think photovoltaic solar energy, 90% local community staff, etc). 

The preserves and parks of the Rio Negro basin

The largest blackwater river in the world, the Rio Negro is the gateway to deeper Amazonian exploration and home to several notable national parks. Parque Nacional de Anavilhanas , a half-day boat ride northwest of Manaus, is home to some 400 river islands (at high-water level, an eerie sunken forest effect makes for spectacular photos) and a jungly patchwork of nook-and-cranny-fed waterways that stretch some 130km (81 miles). Further west, Parque Nacional do Jaú , Brazil’s second-biggest national park, clocks in at 23,000 sq km (8880 sq miles) – one of the world’s largest patches of preserved tropical rainforest. Finally, Reserva Extrativista Baixo Rio Branco-Jauaperi , 500km (311 miles) upstream from Manaus, requires more determination and time to access – but those who make the effort are justly rewarded with some of the Amazon’s best wildlife-viewing opportunities. 

Step 5: Pack appropriately

Don’t count on purchasing anything you forget.

This one might seem obvious – yet it’s crucial to keep in mind that popping into a nearby shopping mall won’t be an option. If you’re going the rustic-riverboat route, you’ll want to bring cavalcade of supplies: hammock, rope, light bedsheet, dry snacks, a good book or two, extra toilet paper, mosquito net, familiar medicines, anti-bacterial Marseille soap, thin cable and lock (to secure your bag to one of the boat’s center poles), and so on. (At jungle lodges, some of those basic necessities will generally be on hand.) Regardless of the trip you choose, you’ll also want a bevy of long, breathable, waterproof clothes, waterproof shoes or boots, a raincoat or parka, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, water bottle and filter, and plenty of serious mosquito repellent (the natural, organic stuff won’t cut it here). Malaria risk is lower in Manaus and the lower Amazon basin, so drugs for malaria prophylaxis aren’t entirely necessary. Still, speak with your doctor before you make any final decisions.

Step 6: Plan out your Manaus meals

Dig into fascinating local cuisine.

The Amazon serves up some of Brazil’s best and most interesting restaurants. Reserve a table in advance at Banzeiro , a long-standing Amazonian dining icon where Chef Felipe Schaedler flips the jungle’s bounty into surprising and unique fare, including the unforgettable crunchy tambaqui ribs and an arsenal of locally driven delights. At Biatüwi , Brazil’s first Indigenous-run restaurant, Sateré-Mawé Chef Clarinda Ramos showcases the Amazon-basin delicacies of nearby local communities. And don’t miss the city’s signature sandwich, the x-caboquinho , made with curd cheese, fried pacovã banana and tucumã shavings on French bread.

If I could do it all again…

I have experienced the Amazon from all available extremes: rustic passenger boats, a midrange cruise and several luxury jungle lodges. Honestly, each option offers a unique and extraordinary experience – with a few caveats. Staring into the forest canopy over several days from a riverboat can become tedious – you don’t see as much wildlife as you imagine (you’ll see some pink dolphins in the river if you’re lucky, but most animals are hidden deeper into the rainforest), and there isn’t a lot to do besides drink and swap traveler tales. Excursions from river lodges are better, with the added bonuses of expert guides, more-comfortable accommodations, better food and a (potential) escape from mosquitoes.

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Top Tours in Manaus, Brazil

Manaus tours.

• Multi-day Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Night Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. A Whole Day in the Jungle

2. Amazon Experience: meet a native village and swim with porpoises

3. 3 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

4. 2 Days 1 Night at the Juma Lake Lodge

5. Amazon Safari from Manaus

6. Meeting of the Waters & Pink Dolphin Tour with Lunch

7. Amazon Negro River Half-Day Expedition Tour

8. Amazing Waterfalls of the Amazon - Presidente Figueiredo

9. River Day Tour from Manaus

10. Amazon Waterfalls Tour

11. Amazon Jungle Experience with Overnight

12. Amazon Explore 4D/3N-At Amazon Tapiri Floating Lodge

13. 4 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour

14. The Manaus Express City Tour

15. One Night Adventure in the Jungle

16. 8-Hour Amazonas Jungle Treck & Anavilhanas Archipelago

17. Indian Village and Meeting of the Waters Tour

18. Solimoes River Piranha Fishing and Alligator Watching Tour

19. Amazon and Negro Rivers Experience with Night Exploration Tour

20. Amazon Private Safari by Tuhiri Eco Tour - Leaving Manaus

21. Private Transfer 24h Airport to Hotel in Manaus

22. Private city tour through the historic center of Manaus

23. Private River Tour by Speedboat in the Amazon, Lily Pads & Nature

24. Adventure: 4-hour hike in the Amazon rainforest

25. Jungle Walking with Caves and Waterfalls in Amazon Full Day Tour

26. Transfers from the airport to any place in Manaus City

27. Amazon Survival Tour 4D/3N

28. Tour to Presidente Figueiredo Waterfalls

29. Jewish Tour in Manaus in the Amazon from 4 to 5 hours

30. Taste of the Amazon Jungle 3D-2N-A Amazon Tapiri Floating Lodge

What travellers are saying.

• A Whole Day in the Jungle
• Amazon Negro River Half-Day Expedition Tour
• 3 Days Amazon Jungle Adventure Tour
• Amazon Experience: meet a native village and swim with porpoises
• River Day Tour from Manaus
• Aventurei Turismo
• Amazon Green Tours
• Iguana Turismo
• Amazon Gero Tours
• Amazon Eco Adventures Tours
• Olimpio Carneiro Turismo
• Ney Eco Adventures

The Ultimate Manaus Travel Guide: Explore Brazil Like a Local [2024]

Table of Contents

Manaus TRAVEL GUIDE

Manaus brazil: a quick look.

If I ask you to tell me one thing that is in Brazil, your answer will probably be the Amazon rainforest. And if you want to dive deeper into its heart, then I have something to show you!

In this Manaus travel guide, you will find everything you need to know, from pre-planning your trip to staying safe.  If you plan on traveling to other places in Brazil and need an in-depth country guide, see our complete  Brazil travel guide . 

Now back to Manaus!

Manaus is the capital of a state housing most of this beautiful forest, and I’ll tell you all you need to know about it in this Manaus travel guide. Although you won’t have saltwater beaches, you will get to enjoy a different face of Brazil.

This ultimate Manaus travel guide is about much more than planning a trip’s technicalities; it is to make sure you’ve got a smooth trip. So we will talk about where to stay, what tours to take and how to arrive where you want. 

Side note:  One of the main questions we get when planning a trip to our country is “when is the  best time to visit Brazil ”, which you can read later.

Brazil is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes to explore, and I hope to be along with you for the ride. So grab some water, take a seat, and let’s go!

Manaus Brazil: Quick travel tips before you go

🛫 Airport: Manaus is a capital city, and the closest airport is in town, called Manaus International Airport. The code is MAO.

🤑 Currency : Like every other city in the country, the main currency here is the Brazilian Real, shown by the R$ symbol.

🗣️ Language: Manaus’s primary language is Portuguese, but you can expect English to be spoken at most hotels and tourist spots.

🕰️ Time Zone: Manaus time zone is in the America/Manaus zone (GMT-4). Meaning it’s most often aligned with EST and three hours ahead of PST.

💵 Cost: We have another section in our Manaus travel guide to talk about it in depth, but this is a super affordable trip. Especially if you’re coming from a stronger currency like the US dollar, EURO, or Yen.

🛜 Internet: Because this is a state capital, mobile internet should be great! You will be fine to use all the apps needed.

📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here . You do NOT need a visa for EU Nationals, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here .

🔌 Power Outlets: Most outlets in Brazil have one of two plug types: C or N. C is the one with two round pins, and N has an additional one for grounding. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this universal travel adapter .

🔋 Power Grid: The power grid in Manaus is quite stable. But remember, Brazil mostly operates on 127/220V voltage and 60Hz. While a few newer buildings have a 220V grid, don’t count on it everywhere.

📳 SIM Card: If you are not sure about getting a SIM card, think that you will probably need to use apps like Uber or Google Maps, or maybe you will want to upload a picture, so definitely get one! Also, always check the data package is big enough.

🚘 Car Rentals: Renting a car and learning about new traffic rules may seem complicated, but our Manaus travel guide highly recommends considering it. It is your best choice to get around.

Manaus Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)

🍏 Food safety: A majority of foods are safe for eating, even in most stalls. Just avoid certain kinds like seafood from street vendors.

💧 Water safety: Tap water isn’t drinkable AT ALL when unfiltered, but it’s okay for everything else! Restaurants generally filter water for ice and drinks, so you’ll be fine on that end, too. I personally recommend you carry a reusable bottle with you to avoid buying bottles all the time. You can use something like a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . It is refillable but filters your water so you don’t get sick in Brazil.

👷‍♀️ Daytime safety: Daytime safety is down to pretty basic stuff because petty theft is the main concern, as it is in all major cities. Just be mindful of your belongings, and don’t take them out unless it’s necessary.

🦺 Nighttime safety: At night, keep using your common sense. Your valuables still need to be safely tucked away. As for being out in the streets, it’s never recommended if you are alone, so prefer to use ride-sharing apps or rent a car .

👺 Avoiding scams: Scamming will happen mostly during sales transactions, so always go for buying tickets online from reputable websites. And if you take any cabs, always make sure the meter is up and running.

Manaus Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective

⚠️ Stay Smart, Stay Safe: Travel safety is an important topic in our Manaus travel guide! Most of all, you should use common sense in major cities and avoid areas that get deserted after dark. And solo female travelers, like me, always make sure your plans end with you back in the hotel before midnight.

🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists: Hotels in Manaus are concentrated in a few areas, so your main options are Historical Downtown (best central location and for groups and solo travelers), Vieralves (best for nightlife), Adrianópolis (best for couples), and Itapuã (best for families).

🎄 Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: Although Manaus has some local celebrations, it also celebrates our nationwide dates! So you can expect Carnaval in February, Easter in March, Festa Junina in June and July, and the Holiday season in late December.

🍜 Local food to try: Sweet water fish stew, Farofa de Uarini, Tucumã, X-Caboquinho (a breakfast sandwich), Pupunha, and other fruits that are only around in the area!

🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): In Manaus, it’s all about the cachaça. You can try several different flavors and styles in the bars around town.

🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Our Manaus travel guide highly recommends you try as many fruit juices as you can since we’ve got such a nice variety here.

🚶‍♂️ Walkability: The city itself is located in the Amazonian plain, which means smooth streets perfect for all kinds of activities.

🎉 Nightlife: Nightlife here is something made of tradition since there are many established places for you to visit, from karaoke to clubs.

😀 Friendly to Foreigners: Fun fact: Manaus is a hub for industrial activity, so the town is used to receiving foreigners all the time. You can expect to be welcomed with open arms!

🏥 Hospitals: There are a number of great and renowned hospitals in town in case of an emergency! We do have a public health system, but you should still get insurance, just in case!

🇺🇸 English Speaking: You will find fluent speakers more easily in hotels, but many restaurants have their menus translated and such!

Where is Manaus Brazil Located?

Manaus map .

Once upon a time, Manaus was known for being a luxurious town and earned the ‘Paris of the tropics’ nickname. It is located in the north part of our country, right where the Black and Amazon rivers meet. With a different kind of beauty to offer, this beautiful town has all you need! 

What State is Manaus In? 

Surrounded by the sweetest waters, Manaus is located in the state of Amazon. The state, with the same name as the amazing forest, is filled with Brazil’s widest side. It is also home to our nation’s biggest industrial hub. It is a destination for people wanting to experience the uniqueness our northern region has to offer.

What’s the Closest Airport to Manaus Brazil?

As we mentioned previously in our Manaus travel guide, the Manaus International Airport is actually in town! And because it is so close to the downtown area, approximately 8 miles (13 Kilometers), you can cover the distance in different ways!

What is the Best Way to Get to Your Manaus Hotel?

Once your flight touches down at Manaus International Airport (SSA), you have four different ways to reach your home base for the next few days!

As the person writing you an ultimate Manaus travel guide, my top recommendation is booking a private shuttle for a stress-free beginning to your trip. It picks you up at the airport and drops you off at the reception of your hotel.

💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to take an Uber, ensure you have a Brazil SIM card so your phone operates appropriately. You never want to depend on free public WIFI for using your ride-share apps. 

Your third way to leave the airport is to get a taxi. In this case, it’s doable because the downtown area is close by. But it can be costly, so pay attention to the meter to avoid being overcharged!

But our Manaus travel guide highly recommends renting a car as well, just because it’ll make your life easier. You will be happy to have a private way of getting around, and it enables you to explore more of the surrounding areas!

And if your trip is a family thing, getting a rental is a must since not everybody will fit into a single Uber along with their bags.

How to Get Around Manaus?

Ride Sharing (top choice): Not only is this efficient, but Manaus also has a few different apps working in town, which makes for competitive prices. It’s a cheap and convenient means of transportation. Just make sure you are equipped with a good mobile network to use the apps properly.

Rent a Car (top choice): As we were just discussing in our Manaus travel guide, renting a car is a wonderful idea! It is a little more expensive than other options, but it pays off by giving you the most freedom. With your own car, you’ll be able to follow your own pace. Just be sure to have all the necessary documentation for driving in another country!

Take a Taxi: Not all Manaus travel guides talk about how taxis can be useful. If you’re out having fun or just don’t feel like waiting for an Uber, they’ll take you wherever you want to go! Just always check to make sure it is a licensed vehicle, and the meter is on.

Get on a Bike: Although it is not recommended to use it as a primary way to get around, our Manaus travel guide recommends renting a bike for scenic rides through the many parks in town. You’re able to pay only for what you use and enjoy an amazing time.

Public transportation: This kind of transportation should be your last resort, honestly. Because Manaus is such a massive city amidst a metropolis, public transportation is always kind of crowded. So unless you really have to, try to use other alternatives!

When to Go to Manaus?

Choosing when your trip happens is the moment that makes it all come true. It is so much more than time away from work! So, to help you understand more about our seasons, keeping in mind they’re the opposite of northern hemisphere ones, here’s a summary of each!

Manaus Brazil Summer (December to March): If we are talking about summer in terms of weather, then temperatures here drop a little because it is so close to the equatorial line. But for tourism, summer is our busiest season, especially around the holidays, so expect more crowds, higher prices, and more activities to do.

Summer Carnival: The Carnaval here in Manaus is more of a historic celebration! So, if you want to see all of our traditional songs, called marchinhas, and experience this amazing celebration, start planning ahead! Spaces have a tendency to sell out fast for this time of the year. It usually happens mid to late February, to give you an idea.

Manaus Brazil Fall (April and May): Fall in Manaus is a mixture of different kinds of weather, but it’s after the wet season, so you should have it clear on that end. Temperatures are stable year-round in here, so coming during the Fall months gives you an escape from summer crowds and a better chance at deals.

Manaus Brazil Winter (June to August): Winter is every Manaus travel guide’s most recommended season to come because you can feel a slight drop in temperature. It gets hot enough to enjoy poolside days or adventure on a sweet water beach.

Manaus Brazil Spring (September to November): Manaus travel guides often advise you to skip spring, especially September, since it is the hottest month of the year. But after it is done, the thermometers are a little kinder, and so are the locals with lowering prices to entice fewer crowds.

In the end, your decision is about a lot more than what each season looks like, but it helps to know a little bit!

Where to Stay in Manaus Brazil? (By Neighborhood)

When you started reading our Manaus travel guide, your biggest question was probably about where to stay in town. The answer to this question really depends on your goals for the trip because each area will offer you a singular experience.

Hotels in Manaus are concentrated in a few areas, so your main options are Historical Downtown (best central location and for groups and solo travelers), Vieralves (best for nightlife), Adrianópolis (best for couples), and Itapuã (best for families).

So first, you should have your goal more concrete. Do you want to enjoy the Brazilian nights? Or your goal is to just soak in the sun for some time? Maybe you’re the kind of person who will explore the jungle for hour. Besides that, you should consider who is tagging along since that can be an important factor in your decision.

So, let’s check out each of the main areas from up close.

Historical Downtown (Best Central Location and for Groups and Solo Travelers) 

Most Manaus travel guides recommend staying in the Historic Downtown area for a reason. You can take your pick from all kinds of accommodations to enjoy this neighborhood that has all you may need. If you want to be where the action happens, close to tourist spots and transportation, this is the best choice for you!

It is also the top choice for groups and solo travelers because, as I said, you can find all kinds of hotels, from nicer ones to budget-friendly options. Setting up your home in this central spot is perfect for making sure you’re always ready to enjoy your day to the fullest!

Vieralves (Best for Nightlife) 

If you want to enjoy the wonders of nightlife in Manaus, then your accommodation should be in the Vieralves neighborhood.

You can find options for enjoying your night in every district, but Vieralves is the one where the best choices are! You can find nightclubs and cozy bars or even try your hand at karaoke. Your nights are sure to end with plenty of stories to tell.

Adrianópolis (Best for Couples) 

Whenever traveling with my better half, we always look for places with nicer places to stay at, regardless of closeness to downtown. Adrianópolis offers you the best hotels, nicer restaurants, and mobility to wherever you want to go!

You can walk through quiet streets and even enjoy an afternoon at the biggest shopping mall in town,

Itapuã (Best for Families) 

Itapuã is our Manaus travel guide recommendation for all the families coming to enjoy this gorgeous area. Because it is a little further away from the downtown area, you can enjoy a different kind of peace. Plus, if you have a rental car, a lot of hotels in this area have parking spots for them!

This amazing neighborhood is ready to take care of you with all the amenities you may need and let you follow your heart toward the next adventure!

Best Things to Do in Manaus Brazil

• Try Your Luck With the Black River Beach: ​​ I say try your luck because this one isn’t available all the time! The Black River, known for its dark and warm waters, sometimes has a tide low enough to enjoy a sweet water beach day with locals!
• Witness Natural Magic: Thankfully, I’ve already talked a bit about the Black River because it is half of our magic trick. At the “Encontro das Águas,” you get to see Solimões and Black River meet, but they don’t mix! Both rivers have distinct temperatures and colors, which makes for a wonderful sight!
• Travel Back in Time at Paricatuba Village: Paricatuba is a time-forgotten village a short distance away from the state capital, filled with ruins to be explored, and at the end of the day, you can watch the most gorgeous sunset at the banks of the Black River.
• Appreciate Nature at Janauari Lake Eco Park: This amazing place is a boat ride away from Manaus, and it is a retreat for vegetation that is only in the area. You should set aside enough time to explore it properly since a lot of you see here will be a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
• Learn About the Place You’re in at Musa: Being the town’s biggest natural center, this museum is alive. It is located at the Adolpho Ducke reservation, and the unique location makes for a truly immersive experience! In this property, you’ll be able to find hiking trails, libraries, and something for everyone to do.
• Taste Your Way Through the Manauara Cuisine: Old-fashioned state capitals are never complete without a huge municipal market. In the Adolpho Lisboa Market, you can try a lot of traditional dishes or just browse several stalls full of knickknacks that make for perfect souvenirs.

Best Manaus Tours

When you go to a place like Manaus, where the surroundings are as interesting as the city itself, planning an itinerary can be confusing. A way to get around that and make the most of it is booking tours, aka tours. 

This section of our Manaus travel guide is dedicated to showing some ways to tour the city itself plus the surrounding areas! You will make unforgettable memories in this place.

Once you arrive in town, it is a good idea to take a complete city tour to get a quick feel of where you want to explore further. I try to do this in every new city I go to. Mostly because it is terrible to find a place you love and have to leave the day after.

💡Pro Tip: Tours should always be booked carefully. Try to use only trusted websites or book them through your hotel’s concierge service. A lot of street vendors and sketchy-looking stores will try to sell you stuff, but the risk of being scammed is way too high.

Guided tours can be a lot more than just a way to simplify your itinerary. Tours give you the freedom to enjoy the moment and have a professional guiding you through the motions. If you choose carefully, your only concern will be enjoying a perfect day.

Here Are My Favorite Ways to Tour Manaus:

• Complete Manaus City Tour : As I just mentioned in this Manaus travel guide, splurge on a complete city tour in your first few days in town. You can do it in several ways, including on foot through the historic downtown area and maybe check some sights off of your list.
• Spend a Day in the Jungle : Or two, or three, or as many as you want! Just as with city tours, jungle tours can take many different shapes. But if you just want to get a quick experience before heading back to your hotel, one day should be more than enough to explore the jungle. Depending on which you get, they can include other activities like swimming with pink sweetwater dolphins.
• Go Chasing Waterfalls : One thing you can find a lot of around here is breathtaking waterfalls. So go chasing waterfalls and book different tours to visit the most famous ones at President Figueiredo and Iracema. 
• Learn About Native People: A tourist-fave way to tour the surroundings is by visiting native villages nearby. Going to a tribe is a truly unique way to get to know this part of Brazil we often forget exists. You can go for as long as you want, and the natives will be happy to receive you!
• Private Custom Tours : But the best way to tour is BY FAR to have a private custom tour if you’re able to splurge! You can work with your guide to put together an itinerary that works with your plans, and the best part is you don’t need to deal with a whole group while you enjoy everything Manaus has to offer.

Is Manaus Safe for Tourists?

Every Manaus travel guide needs to have a section dedicated to safety. Not because this is a dangerous city, but because you should always be cautious when you’re in new places! You could be going to Paris or a Brazilian metropolis; the risks are quite similar.

The main concern for any tourist-heavy area is petty theft. Pickpockets are always on the lookout for tourists who look unprepared and distracted, waiting to take their wallets or phones. The key to being safe is being prepared, so here are

💡Pro Safety Tips (For Any City You Travel To):

• Whenever you’re out living your best life, make sure your belongings are secure. Your most important items like cards, IDs, and even your cell phone can go in a thin fanny pack under your clothing.
• Other less important items can go in your bag since they are probably easier to replace if anything happens.
• Busier times at tourist spots are the prime time for anything happening, so be careful around sudden chaos because it can be fabricated as a distraction.
• Even if it seems like the environment around you seems calm, avoid taking your valuables out since it makes you look like more of a target.
• This tip is most valid in bigger cities, but always ask your hotel front desk if any areas need to be avoided at night or all the time.
• Flashier items, especially with designer logos, should stay in your room because they make you stand out from the crowd, and petty criminals can identify that easily.

Whenever you are at a new place, keep your safety measures in place because it’s better to be safe than regret something later. Being careful with everything, even your drinks, always pays off. In the end, it is all about trying to make smart decisions.

Plan ahead to make sure you’re choosing the best scenarios, and your trip will be amazing!

What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?

Well, tap water is a huge NO in all of Brazil.

Tap water isn’t drinkable anywhere in our country. It is safe to use externally, but don’t drink it under any circumstances!

You will be able to safely brush your teeth and do your hygiene, but no Manaus travel guide will tell you it’s okay to chug it. You’d do best by buying bottled water when needed or carrying a refillable one to take advantage of filters.

Most establishments that deal with food have a filter to make ice and drinks, so you can ask for some ‘água da casa.’ If it’s not available, then just buy a bottle.

Also, another topic every Manaus travel guide touches on is how hot it can get here ALL YEAR LONG. So stay properly hydrated when you’re outside; otherwise, you can get sick and ruin your entire trip.

So Your Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:

• If you are in an Airbnb, boil water in case there isn’t a filter. The filter is usually attached to the kitchen sink faucet.
• At hotels, buy bottled water in the absence of filters. This can get expensive quickly, so look for grocery stores nearby to buy it cheaper.
• Bring along or buy a reusable water bottle to refill, and because refilling is generally free, you don’t have to worry about something as simple as buying drinking water while in Manaus, Brazil. Something like the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle works really well.

Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table: 

✅ World Nomads : Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear. 

✅ SafetyWing : This is for general travelers, frequent travelers,  and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage. 

✅ Travel Insurance Master : Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies. 

Manaus Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in manaus brazil.

Tap water is a big NO for drinking in all of Brazil.

Water from taps isn’t good for drinking anywhere in our country. It is okay to use it externally, but don’t drink it under any circumstances since it wasn’t treated for consumption!

You are cleared to safely brush your teeth and do your hygiene, but no Manaus travel guide will recommend you just chug it. It would be best to buy bottled water when needed or carry a refillable one to take advantage of filters.

Most places that deal with food have a dedicated filter to make their ice and drinks, so you can always ask for some ‘água da casa.’ If it isn’t available for free, then just buy a bottle for now.

Also, another topic every Manaus travel guide should touch on is how hot it gets here ALL YEAR LONG. So, staying properly hydrated when outside is a must; otherwise, you may get sick and ruin your entire trip.

• Bring along or buy a reusable water bottle to refill, and because refilling is generally free, you don’t have to worry about something as simple as buying drinking water while in Manaus, Brazil.

What’s the Manaus Weather Like?

Manaus’ weather is unlike most of Brazil since it’s equatorial, which means mostly higher temperatures and a lot of rain depending on the time of the year.

Because thermometers tend to be stable, you don’t get a lot of variation between seasons. Summer months (December through February) average between 31⁰C and 24⁰C (87,8⁰F to 75,2⁰F), and winter (June through September) remains in the same area.

The wet season is generally from December to May, and the water levels can vary up to 15 meters (42 ft). It is wonderful to see how the buildings are created to accommodate this variation! The only recommendation I can think of is to avoid the last couple of months in the dry season because the air gets too dry, and that can be uncomfortable.

Is Manaus Expensive?

The answer to this depends on where you are coming from. If your original spot is somewhere in the US or Europe, even the UK, it is super affordable because of favorable exchange rates. The key to making your money go a long way is to plan everything nicely beforehand.

It is so much easier to have a good time when we don’t have to worry about expenses as much. But if you are a person who prefers to stay on the higher end of things, your costs will definitely add up to an amount closer to what you generally spend.

Brazil is a different kind of place. You can easily find amazing places to dine in, handcrafted items, and places to visit for a fair price.

We talk about peak and slow seasons further down our Manaus travel guide, but it is always important to remember how prices are hiked up during peak seasons. So, coming in an off-season can make room in your budget for more amazing activities or experiences.

Is Manaus Worth Visiting?

Well, I definitely think so! 

This part of northern Brazil is the last one to preserve how things were once upon a time before Europeans arrived on the continent. So it’ll be worth it to get on a plane and discover the wild side of South America. And if you want to go even further, no one celebrates Carnaval with as much tradition as the northern people.

You need to consider Manaus if you are the kind of traveler who prefers to enjoy different experiences and live through amazing things. Amazon is a huge state; you can use the capital as a home base for all kinds of adventures.

And all that doesn’t include the local cuisine! There are many things you will only be able to taste here. So open your mind and your heart to this amazing city.

How Many Days Do I Need in Manaus Brazil?

Not only is Manaus a historic state capital, but it is also a crossing point into a lot of itineraries you can do in the state.

Should you only be interested in going over the main spots before moving on to your next stop, three days are enough. You can stay in town, take a city tour, and still have time to sit down for a couple of meals of traditional manauara cuisine.

Now, if your trip is scheduled for peak travel seasons and you want to take your time with everything, then you will need seven to nine full days. This time allows you to venture out into the surrounding areas, take a couple of tours, and not stress so much about crowds.

As the person going along this ultimate Manaus travel guide with you, I recommend you think of how many days you need and add a couple to the tally. With a little extra time, you can work around anything that happens or just take a small break.

General Manaus, Brazil Travel Info & FAQ

🌞 Manaus Weather Remember when our Manaus travel guide talked about this being an equatorial city?

That means defined seasons are not really a concept that exists here. What really defines the weather in Manaus are the wet and dry seasons. From December to May, you can expect rain showers with a certain frequency, but they will be over almost as soon as they start. And the months between June and November tend to stay on the drier side.

I believe Manaus is a year-round destination; you just need to prepare for the time of the year you’re coming in. 

💰 Brazil Currency  Brazil’s official currency is the Brazilian Real, symbolized as BRL or R$. 

Although Credit and Debit cards are accepted almost anywhere, it is smart to be prepared! Always have some cash on hand. It is good for when you find a street fair or want to pay for an activity. Sometimes, the networks crash, and you need cash. 

It’s better to be over-prepared than to miss out on something incredible.

🗣️ Brazil Language  Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, so in Manaus and throughout the country, this is what you’ll most likely hear. 

Yes, English is available in some way in most tourist spots, as well as in higher-end accommodations. However, you still need to learn some basic Portuguese beforehand to enrich your experience and make better connections with locals.

To help you do that, you can use language-learning apps such as Duolingo and Pimsleur.

🛫 Manaus Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season Manaus Busy Season: Not just here, every city that relies on tourism has its busy season in Summer (December to February) plus the last weeks of July because of school holidays. Also, Carnaval happens in mid-February, which is maybe the highest peak, so you will face larger crowds, higher prices, and a harder time in general.

Manaus Slow Season: The slow season for Brazil is generally fall/winter, meaning from March to June, a few weeks in July, and all then all the way to November. If you want to come to Brazil while getting better deals doing it, then this is your time frame to book the trip. 

Manaus Shoulder Seasons: The shoulder seasons in Brazil are usually Fall and Spring. These months offer you balanced conditions for traveling. And since Manaus has stable temperatures year-round, you can get endless beach days! Just remember that the months between April and June tend to be more humid!

Do I Need a Visa for Brazil? 

The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023. 

The Longer Answer Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country. 

Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.

Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes. 

This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.

Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this. 

Section 2: European Union (EU)  Nationals

For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil. 

This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.

Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.

For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip. 

The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here .

What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List? 

Packing your bags to travel abroad is a part of the adventure. if you’re like me and feel like you’re never quite sure what to take and always end up forgetting something essential, this next part of our Manaus travel guide is for you.

Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs: 🔌 Power Adapters: Near the beginning of this Manaus travel guide, we talked about what power outlets look like here, so bring adapters that fit types C and N outlets. Double check you have the correct ones and more than one since they’re not so easy to find. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need something like this universal travel adapter .

📳 Brazil and Florianopolis SIM Card: You need to be online when going places you don’t know. You may need to use apps like Uber and Google Translate to move around and communicate, so get a SIM card with a big data package. You can get eSIM cards nowadays, too!

💧 Filterable Water Bottle: Because tap water in Brazil is safe to use but not drink, this Manaus travel guide reminds you to pack a reusable water bottle. The Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle is a great option. It is refillable, but filters your water so you don’t get sick in Brazil.

💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: Especially if you come over for Carnival celebrations, bring over whatever medicine you already trust. Like this, you avoid wasting a whole day in bed.

👒 Sun Protection: The Brazilian sun is intense, and heat is guaranteed in northern states, so be ready! Have plenty of high-SPF sunscreen and a hat to wear if needed. Even just a short time unprotected in the sun causes a lot of harm.

🦟 Bug Repellent: Brazil is mostly in tropical weather, and Manaus is surrounded by natural landscapes and jungles. And because mosquitoes and bugs will be around, especially during summer, pack repellant and remember to put on a nice layer every time you head out. To make it easy, here is an eco-friendly bug repellent .

🩴 Comfortable Footwear: On this Manaus travel guide, we talked about how you can take tours walking through town, exploring the jungle, and more. You want to do that with comfortable shoes, so leave the brand-new ones out in favor of your trusted pairs.

📄 Travel Documents: Triple-check if you have every document you may need during your trip in a safe spot. This includes passports, visas, valid licenses, and travel insurance. Bring at least two copies of each since it’ll make dealing with losses or theft easier.

Another important thing to remember is that depending on how big your toiletries are, you can’t have them in carry-on bags, so check the company’s policy before boarding. The rest of your packing list needs to include clothes appropriate for the heat and geared toward your planned activities. 

Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Manaus Brazil? 

Of course! You can easily pick up a car when you land at the airport and drive to wherever you’re staying in Manaus! 

But not every Manaus travel guide talks about traffic rules being a little different in Brazil when compared to other countries. You can rely on your car’s GPS or Google Maps to take care of translating directions, and because they need it, make sure good mobile internet is available.

Remember, our cars drive on the right-hand side! Don’t forget to get good insurance policies when booking your rental for safety. Double-check that your doors are locked each time you park the rental, with no valuable items left in sight.

All things considered, driving in Manaus is safe. It’ll add much more freedom to your trip. So, think of it as more than a way to get places; it is part of the adventure!

Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?

You won’t exactly need fluent Portuguese because you are coming to a place where tourism is popular, and the industry has adapted to have English speakers available.

However, it’s recommended you add a few key phrases to your vocabulary so your experience is much deeper. It’ll help with being immersed in the city and in a pinch if people around you aren’t English speakers. Tools such as DuoLingo are amazing! They have great user-friendly apps to help with picking up the basics before a trip.

Not achieving fluency isn’t a hurdle for you to have a great time in Brazil. It’s just nice to learn a little bit of whatever language is spoken where you’re going so you don’t rely solely on translating apps. It is something I usually try to do, and if you are like me,

Here Are Some Great Language Preparation Options for Your Trip to Brazil:

Learn A Little Portuguese: It is best to use language-learning platforms that have apps like Duolingo and Pimsleur. They have interactive courses to help you gain some confidence to speak Portuguese when you come here.

Use Google Translate App: This app can be a lifesaver in emergencies. Whenever you have to navigate language barriers, make sure to have it downloaded on your phone. Also, remember to have a Brazilian/Travel SIM card with plenty of data.

Get a Portuguese Phrasebook : And just in case, I’d also recommend you pack a Portuguese phrasebook like the ‘Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook .’ It is good to have a non-digital assistant on hand to help with communication and local language.

Even if you won’t achieve fluency, it is important to have at least basic knowledge of the local language. It makes your experience richer, making you turn into your own Manaus travel guide. Locals love to see visitors make an effort.

Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel? 

Brazil is generally safe for solo female travel, but we need to take precautions just as anywhere else to ensure safety.

Remember the tips we’ve discussed before in this Manaus travel guide! Do research on your accommodations and only book well-reviewed ones. Your activities should be booked through online services, and you need to be attentive to your surroundings at all times.

In addition to that, leave your fancier items at home to avoid unwanted attention.

We also ask you to respect the local rules and customs in place, even if they seem silly. It’ll show locals you care! As for transportation, use only trusted apps like Uber and 99, or just rent a car if you can!

If you’re entirely on your own, never forget to keep family and friends updated on your whereabouts, just in case.

Manaus is the heart of a wonderful part of my country, and I can’t wait to go there again. You might reach it before I do, so enjoy it for both of us! Just remember that planning can turn an ordinary trip into a life-changing experience.

Hey, everyone! My name is Lu and I’m 24 years old. Although I was born in the state of Rio, life took me around from birth. I grew up in the South of Brazil and now live in the South East, in a town called Juiz de Fora. I’ve lived in the US for a couple of years before coming back determined to meet more of my home country. Besides traveling, I love to work as a teacher and go to as many concerts as possible in the company of my besties and girlfriend!

Catch me at my socials below!

 insta: https://www.instagram.com/lumachowski/

WhatsApp: +55 92 99190-5070

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Manaus tour packages.

Combo Manaus / Rio Negro 3 day – 2 night

Day 1 Pick up at airport Manaus and transfer to your hotel 14:00 Citytour (optional)

Day 2 7:00 Breakfast 8:00 Pick up at your hotel in Manaus and transfer to the port 9:00 Boat tour from port to lake Janauari 10:00 Swimming with pink river dolphins 11:00 Jungle walk with observation of monkeys, sloths, macaws, alligators, huge Samauma trees and giant water lilies 12:00 Lunch 13:00 Visit of Dessano Indigenous community with presentation of tribal dances 14:00 Boat tour to meeting of the waters 15:00 Observation of Pirarucu fish (Arapaima), largest sweet water fish 16:00 Return to Manaus and transfer to your hotel

Day 3 7:00 Breakfast 9:00 Citytour (optional) Pick up at your hotel and transfer to airport Manaus

Rate: From USD 180 per person

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• All meals as in program
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Combo Manaus / Rio Negro / Pres Figueiredo 4 day – 3 night

Day 3 7:00 Breakfast 8:00 Pick up at your hotel and transfer by van to Presidente Figueiredo 10:00 Visiting Maroaga cave with jungle walk 11:00 Visiting waterfall Cachoeira de Iracema 13:00 Lunch at the Urubui rapids 14:00 Visit of Galo da Serra cave 15:00 Visit of Cachoeira da Onça 16:30 Return to Manaus and transfer to your hotel

Day 4 7:00 Breakfast 9:00 Citytour (optional) Pick up at your hotel and transfer to airport Manaus

Rate: From USD 240 per person

Combo Manaus / Rio Negro / Pres Figueiredo 5 day – 4 night

Day 1 Pick up at airport Manaus and transfer to your hotel

Day 3 7:00 Breakfast 8:00 Pick up at your hotel and transfer by van to Presidente Figueiredo 10:00 Visiting Maroaga cave with jungle walk 11:00 Visiting waterfall Cachoeira de Iracema e Araras 13:00 Lunch at the Urubui rapids 14:00 Visit of Galo da Serra cave 15:00 Visit of Cachoeira da Onça 16:30 Return to Manaus and transfer to your hotel

Day 4 7:00 Breakfast 8:00 Pick up at your hotel and transfer to Museum Amazonas (MUSA) 9:00 Jungle walk with visit of the Amazon tower, orchid house and lake 12:00 Transfer to center Manaus 13:00 Lunch in panoramic restaurant with view over the Rio Negro 14:00 Citytour with visit of Amazon theater, Police square museum, Rio Negro palace, fish market, Adolpho Lisboa market, custom building, main cathedral and floating port 17:00 Transfer to your hotel

Day 5 Pick up at your hotel and transfer to airport Manaus

Rate: From USD 300 per person

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• 1.1 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By boat
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Additional religious sites
• 5.1.1 Location of trip
• 5.1.2 Time of travel
• 5.1.3 Equipment
• 5.1.4 Dictionary of trip operators:
• 5.2 Amazon tour operators
• 7.1 Local Cuisine
• 7.2.1 Around the port
• 7.2.2 In the city center
• 7.2.3 In Adrianópolis
• 7.3 Mid-range
• 7.4 Splurge
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Heat and sun
• 10.2 Vaccinations
• 11 Stay safe
• 12.1 Jungle accommodation

Manaus is a metropolis of Brazil with about 2.6 million inhabitants in the center of the Amazon rainforest . Its name means Mother of Gods in the indigenous language. The two rivers run side by side for many miles of different colors, running together: the "Meeting of Waters". Legend has it that they never mix.

Understand [ edit ]

The wealth of the primeval forest becomes visible first of all in the architecture of the city. The city enriched and the rubber barons afforded big European luxury such as the Amazonas Opera House. Other monuments from this epoch are the Mercado Municipal , and the arts center Palacio Rio Negro , located among fascinating Portuguese façades. Today Manaus is a foreign trade zone. Foreign enterprises pay no import duties here, guaranteeing a certain income for the city and the region. Electronics, wood industry and oil refineries have settled in the outskirts in industrial areas. The harbour is the most important trading center for the care of the city with regional, national and international products.

The city is pleasant and friendly, although quite hot, and is still a major port, and a good starting point for river tours.

The Rio Negro (northern) branch of the Amazon is the color of strong tea, peaty brown and its comparative acidity means few mosquitoes. At Manaus the Amazon rises and falls almost twenty meters between seasons. In May and June it's at its peak, full and very wide, spreading way out into the trees. In November and December it's low; still massive but with sandbars.

Of all cities one can reach when voyaging along the Amazon River , Manaus is by far the most expensive.

Climate [ edit ]

In the heart of one of the most humid tropical forests in the world, expect a lot of heat and humidity in Manaus. Average temperatures in Manaus tend to exceed 30º C (86º F), but with a greater thermal sensation, due to humidity. In September, temperatures often reach 40º C (104º F).

Manaus does not have winter, summer, spring or autumn; there are only two seasons in the city: a rainy season (from December to May), with long periods of continuous rain and frequent thunderstorms that fill the rivers, forming igapós (forests flooded by rivers, similar to swamps), and a season drought (from June to November), when it still rains, but to a lesser extent. At that time, the rivers lower the waters and begin to form beaches on the banks.

Regardless of the time you visit, it is recommended to wear light clothes and an umbrella to protect yourself from showers and high temperatures.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Manaus is over 2.700 km from São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro which takes about four hours by air. Coming from North America or Europe, if you can't get a direct flight, the best option price- and route-wise is probably to connect in Fortaleza FOR  IATA , the international hub of Northern Brazil (and it might be considerably cheaper to buy an international ticket to Fortaleza and independent domestic one from Fortaleza to Manaus).

Direct international flights:

Buenos Aires:

• Miami : daily with American Airlines and once a week with Latam
• Orlando : once a week with Gol Linhas Aéreas
• Panama City : 4 days a week with Copa Airlines

Brazil flagship airlines Latam , Gol and Azul have frequent direct flights to major Brazilian cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasília, as well as regional capitals, and Azul also flies to the triple border town of Tabatinga . Regional airline Mapoperates a turboprop fleet to towns such as Tefé, Parintins, Altamira and Porto Trombetas.

From the airport to the region of the Amazonas Theater, city bus line 306 costs R$ 3,80 and line 813 with aircon costs R$ 4,20 (the latter are similar to minivans and you'll feel cramped if carrying big luggage). A similar ride costs around R$ 20 on mobile hailing car apps when no surge factor is in place, and R$ 52 by conventional taxis (as at April 2019).

By boat [ edit ]

Manaus is a major destination for boats on the Amazon River. From Belém on the Atlantic Coast, it takes about five days. Boats go to Porto Velho two-three times per week. Tabatinga on the border with Colombia can also be reached by boat from Manaus, with connections further on to Iquitos in Peru . For finding boat connections between Tabatinga and Manaus Navegam covers this route. If you want to save a few hours on your way to Colombia or Peru, ask the according boat company if they stop in Manacapuru , so you can take the boat from there.

By bus [ edit ]

Due to road conditions, there is very little (if any) long-distance bus service originating from major cities in Brazil. There are daily buses to Boa Vista in the north and to destinations in Venezuela. The bus from Caracas in Venezuela takes about 36 hours, but it is air-conditioned, has comfortable reclining seats and a toilet.

Get around [ edit ]

Manaus is very big in area, its urban part sprawling some 400 km 2 (150 sq mi) (versus 100 km 2 (39 sq mi) for Paris or 200 km 2 (77 sq mi) for Buenos Aires ). If you plan to move around the city independently, it's important to find accommodation either downtown or close to the main axis of Av. Constantino Neves and Av. Djalma Batista.

The main city transit option is buses, and the fare is R$ 3.80 (April/2019). One can change buses free of charge at the city terminals T1, T2, T3 and T4, or use a city bus card to board a second bus within 1.5 hr free of charge. To get a card, visit one of SINETRAM offices - the first card for each person is free, then R$ 15.

There is a system of city bikes called MANÔbike, but it's only available downtown where distances are walkable. Besides, Manaus is somewhat hilly and inconvenient for most uncommitted riders.

See [ edit ]

• Saint Sebastian, Martyr and Saint Francis of Assisi Parish ( Paróquia São Sebastião, Mártir e São Francisco de Assis ), Rua 10 de Julho ( across from the Largo de Sao Sebastiao. ). This spooky-looking 19th century neoclassical church with an Italian-style interior looks so much older. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13078 -60.02518 2 Museu da Casa Eduardo Ribeiro , R. José Clemente, 322 - Centro , ☏ +55 92 3631 2938 . 09ː00-17ː00 Tu-F, 09ː00-13ː00 Su, closed F & Sa . Original home of first Afro-Brazilian governor of Amazonas state who made modern Manaus. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13537 -60.02116 5 Praca Heliodoro Balbi ( Heliodoro Balbi Square ). Leafy plaza that is abutted by the Provincial Palace and Police Square. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.1356 -60.02101 6 Palacete Provincial ( Provincial Palace ) ( on Heliodoro Balbi Square ), ☏ +55 92 3631 3632 . 09ː00-15ː00 daily . This grand architectural specimen is also host to several museums, including the Museu de Arqueologia, the Pinacoteca do Estado (plastic arts center), Museu Tiradentes da Policia Militar (military police museum), Museu De Numismática Bernardo Ramos (numismatics), and an art museum. Get all your museum-viewing done in one shebang. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13095 -60.02312 8 Casa das Artes ( House of Arts ), R. José Clemente, 564 , ☏ +55 92 3631 6227 . 13ː00-19ː00 Tu-Su, closed M . Local art works. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13517 -60.0254 9 Cathedral of Our Lady of Conception ( Catedral Nossa Senhora da Conceição ), Av. Marquês de Santa Cruz , ☏ +55 92 3234 7821 . Manaus' metropolitan church which has a cathedral museum dealing with Catholic relics and the pope's visit to Manaus. Outside the church centerpiece is Osvaldo Cruz Plaza with the Municipal clocktower and obelisk gracing Av Eduardo Ribeiro. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13437 -60.02863 10 Palace of Liberty Museum ( Museu da Cidade de Manaus (Paço da Liberdade) ), R. Gabriel Salgado . 09ː00-16ː20 T-Su, closed M . A relatively new showcase about the city, its people, and local foods and culture. The architectural exterior and interior of the building is quite opulent in itself, as is the Rio Branco Palace , which is the state assembly building, just to the south. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13366 -60.02903 11 Instituto Geográfico e Histórico do Amazonas , R. Frei José dos Inocentes, 132 , ☏ +55 92 30853637 . 14ː00-17ː00 Monday only . Just a small museum with an array of relics about this region of the Amazon. In a pretty pink historical mansion. Limited hours. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.12824 -60.02212 12 Museu Amazônico - UFAM , Av. Ramos Ferreira, 1036 , ☏ +55 92 3305 1181 . Su-F 08:30-12:00, 13:00-17:00, closed Sa . Yet another Amazonia museum, this one in a colonial house, and curated by the public university. Nice baskets and masks and caiman skull collection. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.1292 -60.03582 13 Parque Rio Negro . 06ː00-22ː00 daily . Nice promenade along the Rio Negro from which to view the river or Manaus. A chance to see some old factories and also grab a sno cone or helado from a kiosk as you catch a glorious sunset on the Amazon. ( updated Oct 2020 )

• Paricatuba Waterfall ( On the right bank of the Negro River, along a small tributary ). Formed by sedimentary rocks, surrounded by abundant vegetation. Access is by boat. The best time to visit is from August to February.  
• Love Cascade . In the Guedes bayou, with cold and crystal clear water. Accessible only by boat then hiking through the forest.  
• Meeting of the waters . The muddy Solimões and the dark-colored Negro rivers meet, and run together without mixing for a considerable length, about 4 km downstream of the city. You can book a dedicated tour for this, but when you enter/leave Manaus by boat towards Santarém/Belém, you will see it much better from the upper deck of that boat. It's about 30 to 60 minutes downstream from Manaus on a slow boat and you can easily spot it in advance due to the water being much brighter. Also in this area is a community of floating houses called Catalão that some tour operators may include as a cultural part of a package.  

• -3.13876 -60.01736 17 Centro Cultural Usina Chaminé , Av. Lourenço da Silva Braga , ☏ +55 92 3633 3026 . 08ː00-14ː00 T-F, 08ː00-13ː00 Sa, closed Su-M . Cultural space showing varying exhibits on Amazonian features (e.g. basket-weaving, botany, old Manaus tram car) as well as occasional performances. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13303 -59.98736 18 Cultural Center of the Peoples of the Amazon ( Centro Cultural dos Povos da Amazônia ), Distrito Industrial I, Av. Silves, 2222 - Crespo , ☏ +55 92 2125 5300 . 08ː00-17ː00 M-F, 13ː00-17ː00 Sa, 09ː00-13ː00 Su . A venue for indigenous people's performances and festivals and also the site of the Museu do Homen do Norte, a museum about the indigenous tribes of the area. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13326 -60.01199 19 Museu do Índio , Av. Duque de Caxias, 296 - Centro , ☏ +55 92 3635 1922 . 08ː30-11ː30, 13ː00-16ː30 M-Sa, closed Su . Another museum about the first peoples of the area, in case you are not already satisfied with the Museu do Homen do Norte. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.1369 -59.9759 20 Alfandega do Porto de Manaus ( Customs House ). attractive looking government office. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.06174 -60.10581 21 Zoológico do Hotel Tropical , Av. Coronel Teixeira, 1320 - Ponta Negra ( part of the Hotel Tropical ). Animals such as a jaguar, macaws, and monkeys. A little sad though seeing them in cages. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.228 -60.0034 22 Parque Ecologico Janauari , in Iranduba ( across Rio Negro via AM-070 then take turnoff for Rm do Januari and follow to park ), ☏ +55 92 9949 88248 . A relatively easy way to see a piece of the Amazon close to Manaus. Boardwalk trails, floating village, (semi?-)domesticated sloth and anaconda. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.00718 -59.9399 23 Museu da Amazônia - MUSA , Av. Margarita, 6305 - Cidade de Deus, Manaus , ☏ +55 92 9928 04205 . 08ː30-16ː00 daily except W . Open air museum featuring an Amazon observation tower and aquarium with piarucus. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -2.9992 -60.1861 24 Museu Do Seringal , São João Afluente do Tarumã Mirim S/n Zona Rural, Igarapé ( best to take a river boat taxi to get here, even though there is a road ), ☏ +55 92 3631 6047 . 09ː00-16ː00 daily . Museum about rubber baron estate and the rubber industry in general (created from a movie set). ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.10074 -60.04399 25 The CIGS Zoo , São Jorge neighborhood . 09ː00-16ː30ish Tu-Su, closed M . This zoo is run by the Brazilian army and features not only an impressive array of macaws, cats, and other species, but military vehicles too. It is probably a much more fulfilling zoological experience than the one at the Hotel Tropical. ( updated Oct 2020 )

Additional religious sites [ edit ]

• -3.13088 -60.00485 26 Capela de Santo Antônio , Av. Borba, 450 . A church that is a special part of Manaus' heritage as it came about from a wife's vow in the late 19th century to have a chapel built in appreciation for the saint who supposedly interceded for her poor severely ill husband. The church is colloquially known as Capela de Pobra Diablo. Only open every June 13th. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.12213 -60.01457 27 Santuário Nossa Senhora de Fátima , Praça 14 de Janeiro . Cylinder-shaped church that has a following and historical significance in Manaus. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• Santuário Paróquia São José , R. Visc. de Porto Alegre, 806 , ☏ +55 92 3232 4464 . Just a big Catholic presence downtown. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.07389 -60.08925 28 Templo de Manaus Brasil . LDS temple looking pretty temple-like. ( updated Oct 2020 )

Do [ edit ]

Adventure trips to the rainforest [ edit ].

There are a number of companies operating jungle adventure trips from Manaus, but only a few seem to be more established and reputable. First you need to check if the Tour Operator has a valid Embratur (Brazilian Tourism Board) registry. Then you make up your mind what you really want. You need to travel at least 100 km from Manaus to see virgin rain forest and the wild life you are looking for.

Location of trip [ edit ]

There are basically two main areas which you can explore: the Rio Negro basin and the South of Rio Amazonas. Both of these regions are (sparsely) inhabited, so you will not be completely isolated from civilization. If you want to make a trip to a reserve or a remote area, ask for a special expedition package and plan to pay much more and spend a few days for the transfer to and from the reserve. Rio Negro is an area that is great for the jungle vegetation and for the lack of mosquitoes (due to the acidity of the river). Unfortunately, the lack of mosquitoes means there are a lot fewer animals that live there. The South of Rio Amazonas is a network of rivers, lakes and channels. There are mosquitoes and wildlife, however, there are quite a lot of houses and farms—and thus civilization is a lot more visible. Most tours go to or through lake Mamori . There are quite a lot of jungle things to see around the lake, but do not expect pristine nature due to all the farming going on around the lake. There is a reserve nearby called Jurara . It also seems to be inhabited and there is not much difference between the reserve and lake Mamori. A better option may be a trip to lake Juma which is a special protected area.

Time of travel [ edit ]

There are two seasons in the Amazon basin: wet season and dry season. During the dry season it's very hot (that means 40 °C plus the humidity) and thus may be unbearable for some. As well, many channels and rivers dry out. On the other hand, fishing is much easier since all fish concentrates in the remaining water basins. During the wet season, it rains almost every day. When there is a storm, the amount of rain may be overwhelming. Thus, if traveling in wet season, be prepared to get wet and not dry out until the end of your trip. During the season the rivers and lakes rise several meters and many new channels are formed in the flooded jungle. Temperature-wise, the weather is more bearable and only the humidity will be a problem. The wet season lasts roughly January to July, with the best time to visit the jungle May to August.

Equipment [ edit ]

If you travel during the wet season, keep your important things like documents in (tested) waterproof bags/containers. Cotton clothes let your skin breathe but there is no chance that they will ever get dry. Some people find nylon/synthetic clothes to work well. Long sleeves and long pants are not 100% necessary but you will not regret wearing them. A flashlight is necessary for the night, as the jungle is pitch-black. A machete most probably will not be required on short/casual trips but is essential for longer expeditions. A lighter and a pocket knife are a good idea. The pocket knife is especially important since it can provide the only defense against the boa and the anaconda (indeed, attacks do occur). A mosquito repellent is most probably a very smart idea. It keeps other bugs away too and it reduces the risk of being infected by a disease-carrying insect. However, the number of mosquitoes in the jungle is not completely overwhelming, so for longer expeditions you may consider getting used to them. Additionally, a good guide can show you some natural repellents available in the jungle. Sun block is needed especially during the dry season. Otherwise, keep your luggage to the minimum. Do not take things you do not really need.

Dictionary of trip operators: [ edit ]

• native people - people who live in the region. Most of the time that means of Portuguese descent. These are not aboriginal inhabitants.
• native guide - a guide who is a native (see native people ). If at all, usually speaks only marginal English.

Amazon tour operators [ edit ]

Do not buy tours from people at the airport or on the street in Manaus. The best guides are hired by the best companies; the best shysters don’t work for the best companies. If you don’t want to book a tour before arriving and want to book a tour in Manaus use a reputable published guidebook first or just look for the official tourist information center (CAT), they'll help you out and even make free calls if required. Tour companies are relatively easy to find in downtown Manaus and many will meet you at no charge.

The tour companies (even the ones in Lonely Planet) tend to trick the tourists sometimes, they ask you "may I do the reservation?" if you say yes and later cancel they will want to charge you 25%. It is not legal unless they let you know about it and make you sign something, so remain alert. Ask other tour operators to check prices.

If you take a river tour, go up the Rio Negro. From a three-night river boat trip from Manaus up the Rio Negro with a guide, you can expect to see some wildlife and visit some of the forest remnants, but two weeks or more are needed to reach untouched areas. Small two-story river boats carry five to ten people, sleeping in hammocks on the upper deck. Large boats carrying hundreds ply the river too, but the big boats don't stop between ports. The most popular place for jungle tours is Lake Mamori /Lake Juma about 100 km south of Manaus. Other recommended areas are Rio Urubu about 200 km east of and Novo Airão about 100 km northwest of Manaus. Make sure that your travel agency has a valid Embratur (Brazilian Tourism Board) registration.

• Amazon BackPackers Tour , ☏ +55 92 99414-9813 . Rua Dez de Julho 679, ( inside Hotel 10 de Julho ). Amazon Backpackers has been in business for over 15 years. They offer jungle excursions, boat trips, river tours, fishing tours and survival trips. They operate on Lake Mamori, Lake Juma, Rio Tupana and Parque Jau. They offer hotel/hostel booking and airport transfer service.  
• Amazon Brasil Tour , ☏ +55 92 99184-8452 . Rua 10 de julho 708- Room- 02. They organize non conventional tours with experienced tour guides. They do jungle tours to different areas of the Amazon (Juma Lake area, Tracajá, Rio Negro river)and they are specialized in Boat tours (boat with hammocks and Boat with cabins and luxury boats) exploring rivers of the Amazon. Their main goal is to show the Amazon in its authentic way. All Their jungle tours are covereds by insurance.  
• Amazon Tree Climbing , ☏ +55 92 98195-8585 , [email protected] . Ecotourism, nature and adventure travel specializing in tree climbing and boat expeditions and working with small closed groups. Follows rigid safety protocols according to the Brazilian adventure tourism standards .The trees are previously inspected and the climb sites are carefully chosen – they opt for primary forest area, which gives a better chance of observing the wildlife in its natural habitat. Multilingual guides with solid cultural background, and top quality equipment. Trips vary from 1 day to longer customized boat expeditions at the Rio Negro basin.  
• Amazing Tours Agency , ☏ +55 92 99186-7133 , +55 92 98165-1118 . Av.Getulio Vargas 694,centro.  

Amazing Tours Agency organize Rio Negro tour, boat tours, boat tickets, amazon lodges, adventure trips, fishing trips.

• Manaus Booking , ☏ +55 92 99190-5070 . Leovegildo Coelho, No.460. Amazon jungle tour R$75 per day, boat charter R$595 per day, day tours, city tour, airport transfer, boat and bus tickets  

Other [ edit ]

• -3.0353 -59.9819 1 Sumaúma State Park , Av. Bacuri, s/n - Cidade Nova , ☏ +55 92 3659-1832 . 08ː00-17ː00 Tu-Su, closed M . This 131 acre park has nature trails where you might see a tamarin, sloth, agouti, or iguana, though it is subject to degradation from pollution and vandalism, as in trashed vegetation, sewage discharges, etc. But there is a charming artificial 15 m 'Tree of Life' that one can climb located here. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.13202 -60.02327 2 Big House Ideas Manaus , R. Barroso, 279 - Centro , ☏ +55 92 3633-4008 . 08ː00-12ː00, 14ː00-18ː00 daily . Eclectic place with cinema, bossa nova performances, reading library, free-roaming kittens, artwork. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.12727 -60.0269 3 Atlético Rio Negro Clube , Av. Epaminondas, 570 - Centro , ☏ +55 92 99982-8564 . Athletic club basically with basketball courts, pool, and other sorts of recreational amenities. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -2.97341 -60.0869 4 Hope Bay Parque , R. da Floresta, 2150 - Tarumã , ☏ +55 92 2101 3600 . Water park with slides, wave pool, lazy river..basically all the typical water park stuff..out in the boonies. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.0811 -60.0033 5 Parque Municipal do Mindu , R. Domingos José Martins . 05ː00-17ː00 Tu-Su, closed M . Urban ecozone with trails and boardwalks and statues of animals and Indians everywhere, but unfortunately it is a bit polluted. ( updated Oct 2020 )

Buy [ edit ]

Besides the star mercado mentioned above, these are some optionsː

• Feira De Artesanato , along Av. Eduardo Ribeiro between R. Saldanha Marinho and Rua 24 de Maio . 08ː00-12ː00 Saturday only . lots of handicrafts on display, as well as food items for sale. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.03067 -59.97728 1 Sumaúma Park Shopping , Av. Noel Nutels, 1762 - Cidade Nova . Big-time shopping mall with bowling and even a pool. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.09434 -60.02252 2 Amazonas Shopping Center , Av. Djalma Batista, 482 . Another big mall, with a cinema and food court. ( updated Oct 2020 )
• -3.09746 -60.02313 3 Manaus Plaza Shopping , Av. Djalma Batista ( just a couple of doors down from the Amazonas mall ). Smaller mall. ( updated Oct 2020 )

Eat [ edit ]

Local cuisine [ edit ].

Local cuisine is rich and varied and can be found in many restaurants and stalls. You may try:

• tapioquinha , a glutinous pancake made from manioc starch, usually buttered and filled with tucumã palm fruit and farmer’s cheese.
• tacacá , an Amazon local soup.
• pamonha , made from green corn and coconut milk boiled in corn husks.
• bolo de macaxeira , a tasty glutinous translucent cake made from manioc.
• sugar cane juice , a favorite drink among locals.

The region is also known for its exotic fruits like:

• creamy white cupuaçú .
• iron-rich açaí .

Budget [ edit ]

Around the port [ edit ].

The area between Av. Floriano Peixoto and the port has many small restaurants that offer food for decent prices. Directly at the port at the big market (2 blocks downstream from Mercado Municipal) food stalls offer even cheaper alternatives.

• -3.137226 -60.025229 1 Restaurante Shekinah II , Av. Floriano Peixoto, 49 . A snack bar ( updated Jan 2022 )

In the city center [ edit ]

• -3.131687 -60.023232 2 Castelinho Restaurante , R. Barroso, 317 . ( updated Apr 2022 )
• -3.129744 -60.025715 3 Kilo Center Restaurante , Rua 10 de Julho, 203 . ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -3.136926 -60.022614 4 Restaurante e Churrascaria Zitos , R. Dr. Moreira, 98 . A buffet restaurant ( updated Jul 2021 )

In Adrianópolis [ edit ]

• Picanharia Vieiralves , Rua Acre, 98, Vieiralves , ☏ +55 92 3584-8500 . Open 10AM to midnight . Nice atmosphere. Regional dishes. Good service. Sometimes live music. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• -3.13326 -59.93962 5 Peixaria Morongueta , Rua Jaith Chaves, 30 - Porto da Ceasa , ☏ +55 92 3615-3362 . 11:00-23:00 . Open-air seafood restaurant with a fantastic view of the Meeting of the Waters. Moderately priced, offering fresh local (i.e., Amazonian) fish and traditional Brazilian dishes. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -3.09172 -60.039197 6 Restaurante da Charufe , 26 Maceio Street ( next to the Ministério da Agricultura (Rua Maceió, 26, ao lado do Ministério da Agricultura) ), ☏ +55 92 9128-4628 , [email protected] . Best Lebanese food in town, the famous paella and special local homely fish dishes. The famous chef opens her restaurant at home only for lunch from Mondays to Fridays. Feijoada (delicious black beens stew) on Saturdays at previous reservation. All credit cards accepted. ( updated Jun 2021 )
• -3.11715 -60.01449 7 Canto da Peixada , Av. Ayrão, 1677 - Praça 14 de Janeiro , ☏ +55 92 3234 3021 . Great local fish selection. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -3.113934 -60.01551 8 Miako , R. São Luíz, N80 . Japanese ( updated May 2022 )
• -3.108388 -60.01851 9 Restaurante Shin Suzuran , R. Rio Itannana, 100 . Japanese ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -3.13345 -60.017851 10 Señior Ceviche , Av. Igarapé de Manaus, 137 . A home that serves delicious Peruvian dishes ( updated Jun 2022 )
• -3.09008 -60.02107 11 Praça do Caranguejo , R. do Caranguejo, s/n - Parque 10 de Novembro , ☏ +55 92 9928 04645 . 16ː00-03ː00 daily . Interesting courtyard with multiple food vendors and drinks. Open late so as to be able to while away the evening with a crab sandwich and a Brahma or whatever is to your liking. ( updated Jun 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• -3.109244 -60.01784 12 Restaurante Alentejo , R. Pará, 555 . ( updated Sep 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

Downtown drinking near the Teatro Amazonas , lately spreading towards the refurbished Praca da Saudade . Others options in the Ponta Negra area, including the "Estrada do Turismo" -a string of nightlife spots along the road to the airport.

• Bar do Armando , Largo do São Sebastião ( Across the square from the Theatro Amazonas ). Every evening until midnight . Lively crowd, simple setting, excellent location. Prices are a bit stiff, and for snacks they are downright ridiculous.  
• Porao do Alemao , Estrada da Ponta Negra 1986, São Jorge . Mostly rock, excellent snacks. Entry fee .  
• Tuesdays(!) and Fridays have hundreds and hundreds of people gather at a string of drinking shacks known as Calçadão da Suframa . Some have live music, often forró . One spot is Casa do Terror , a cobwebbed hole-in-the-wall where a shirtless Cearense in a cowboy hat spins old LPs of boleros and bregas.
• Crocodillo (Centro) is a dance club with decent music and reasonable drink prices.
• Festivals Festivals are usually held in the Sambódromo, a huge stadium on Rua Constantino Nery. Carnaval is held here as well as many other festivals, including Manaus’s popular Boi .
• Gay : The two main clubs are Humps and A2 , both located in the city centre.
• Upscale dancing at the Tropical Hotel .

Sleep [ edit ]

Jungle accommodation , hotels and other lodgings located outside the municipality of Manaus are not included in this list. Please see the Go next section below for links to the appropriate articles.

Lots of cheap hotels and pensões can be found around Av. Joaquim Nabuco. Many of these have hourly rates, and are not very pleasant, and often quite smelly. The area gets dodgy in the late evenings.

• Pensão Sulista , Av. Joaquim Nabuco, No.347, Centró , ☏ +55 92 3234-5814 . Traditional Hotel in historic building from 1904. Rooms with Fan and TV. Complementary breakfast, wireless Internet access and private parking.  
• Pensao Jangada , R. dos Andradas, N 473 , ☏ +55 92 3234 1517 . Rooms with private bathroom, a/c and TV. Very clean.  
• Hotel Rio Branco , R. dos Andradas, 474 - Centro , ☏ +55 92 3233 4019 . A real backpacker dive. Rooms are tiny and in some cases without windows. Cheap clean rooms with Frigobar, Phone, Air condition, Safe service, breakfast and room service.  
• Hotel Colonial , Rua Quintino Bocaiuva, 462, Centró , ☏ +55 92 3233-3216 . 12 rooms for up to 6 people in historic building. All rooms with private bathroom, frigobar and cable TV, wireless Internet and complementary breakfast. R$80 for single with breakfast .  
• Continental , Rua Coronel Sergio Pessoa 189 , ☏ +55 92 3302-5574 . A few blocks removed from the main strip; pleasant and economical.  
• São Pedro Palace Hotel , Rua Rui Barbosa 166, Centro ( Two blocks south of the Teatro ), ☏ +55 92 3232-8664 . Partly refurbished, clean, bright and spacious. Arguably the best cost/benefit in the neighbourhood.  
• Hostel For Us , Rua Ramos Ferreira 922, centro ( three blocks north of the square ), ☏ +55 92 3342-6760 . Spacious public area, kitchen facilities, wi-fi. Single 70, double 100, dorm bed 25 .  
• Continental Hotel , ☏ +55 92 3642-6232 , [email protected] . Estrada dos Japoneses, n.238, Parque 10. Rooms have Minibar, cable TV and Broadband Wifi Internet Service, 24 hour Room service, Single with breakfast.  
• Tiwa Amazonas Ecoresort , Iranduba . Clean, comfortable, air conditioned cabins over a private lagoon. Buffet-style meals included (typically traditional Brazilian dishes and local fish), as well as a program of guided tours in English and other languages.  
• -3.06138 -60.10729 1 Hotel Tropical ( Tropical Manaus Eco Resort ), Av Coronel Teixeira, 1320 , ☏ +55 92 2123-5000 . At the end of Ponta Negra beach, and in a fancy neighborhood, this hotel is a landmark known by all manauara people, and is part of the tourism history of the region. Rumor has it that it has seen better days, but its 588 apartments in top facilities are still a drawn if you're tired of the more down-to-earth jungle life. ( updated Apr 2019 )
• -3.12918 -60.02262 2 Seringal Hotel , R. Monsenhor Coutinho, 758 ( a block north of the teatro and square ), ☏ +55 92 98179 2222 . This is a pretty choice stay with its flamboyant architecture and delectable dining choices. Breakfast and afternoon tea available daily. R$208 . ( updated Oct 2020 )

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Heat and sun [ edit ].

The climate is very hot and humid. Packing thin, light-colored clothing will help you suffer the least during the day. Locals are often seen using umbrellas as sun-protection while walking the streets, and you should consider doing the same.

Vaccinations [ edit ]

Do take yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before landing in the Amazon region. One shot of this vaccine offers lifelong protection.

Manaus and the nearby jungle regions most tourists visit on 2- to 5-day tours are relatively malaria-free, so one should ponder carefully if the benefit of malaria drugs offset the many inconveniences. Malaria drugs are known to cause lack of energy and belly discomfort in a number of people, and the frequent need to visit the toilet might spoil boat rides and longer tours. Also, some doctors, following a more modern line, have been recommending tourists to carry the drugs but to only take them if symptoms arise, as this is efficient enough. Do your own research and decide on the best approach for yourself. Mosquitos that are malaria carriers are more active from dusk to dawn.

To avoid mosquito bites, apply insect repellent often, wear pants and long sleeves, and consider treating your clothes with permethrin .

Stay safe [ edit ]

Manaus is fairly safe for a Brazilian city of its size. As always, deserted streets are a bad idea after dark. Avoid the east zone, it has a really bad reputation.

Go next [ edit ]

• Presidente Figueiredo – 130 km. Offers archaeological grottoes and caves, waterfalls, and native scenery.
• São Gabriel da Cachoeira – 900 km by boat. Home of many Indian tribes and the Pico da Neblina, the highest mountain in Brazil.
• Barcelos – 500 km by boat. Small town up the Rio Negro famous for white beaches, sport fishing and the highest waterfall in Brazil.
• Boa Vista – 750 km. By bus or with the national airlines, from Boa vista you can fly to Guyana and Suriname.
• Praia do Tupé – 25 km by boat. Nearby white sand beach
• Manacapuru – 100 km. Paraiso d’Angelo chalets on black water
• Parintins – 440 km by boat. boi festival in June
• Mauês – 280 km by boat. guaraná festival
• Jau National Park – Jungle expeditions leave Manaus for this huge park near Novo Airão (200 km). The Park is a World Heritage site and stands out in the state of Amazonas.
• Rainforest tours for Mamori River (90 km) and Mamirauá south of the city near the Amazonas river reached by the Transamazônica road.

Jungle accommodation [ edit ]

Areas near Manaus that offer lodging in the jungle (rather than in a town), include

• Iranduba – 40 km. Including the Ariau river , pioneering in jungle tourism. Accessible by the bridge from Manaus, although the jungle lodges are mostly reached by boat.
• The Mamori river – 90 km. Accessible by the BR 319 highway, across the river from Manaus
• The Juma river – 250 km by boat. Somewhat off the BR 319
• The Tupana river – 190 km. Further south on the BR 319

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Amazon Rainforest Tours & Trips from Manaus

An adventure starting in Manaus is a great way to see Amazon Rainforest. We have 11 tours that range from 3 days up to 6 days. The most popular time for tours from Manaus is April, which has the most tour departures.

11 Amazon Rainforest tours from Manaus with 24 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Amazon Jungle - 3 Days

Jungle James was an amazing guide!!

• Jungle Trekking
• Hiking & Trekking
• In-depth Cultural

Amazon Rainforest Experience

Organization of and the Tour itself were excellent! I can highly recommend this Tour!

Manaus Amazon Jungle Adventure 3D/2N

Best value for my money I've ever received. Amazing guides, flawless English, great customer service, Lots activities, love this tour. Would definitely recommend for anyone headed to the Amazon!!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Manaus Amazon Jungle Adventure 4D/3N

Best value for my money I've ever received. Amazing guides, flawless English, great customer service, so many stories/memories made. Would definitely recommend for anyone headed to the Amazon!!

• River Cruise

Amazon Boat Cruise - 4 Days

4 days Unique Experience @ Tariri Amazon Lodge , Total Immersion in the Amazon on a Jungle Adventure - Brasil

Manaus, Discovering the Amazon

Amazon Rainforest Adventure 4 Days /3nights

Manaus Amazon Jungle Adventure 5D/4N

This trip was truly amazing. Our guide Anderson was so knowledgeable about the Amazon and just a great bloke. We had a great bunch of people from all over the world to enjoy the tour with. Food was plentiful and delicious. Sleeping in hammocks in the jungle and catching fish and Caiman were highlights. If you have an adventurous spirit you will love this!

Amazon Boat Cruise - 6 Days

Amazon Jungle (Air-Conditioned) - 3 Days

Tours starting from manaus.

• Manaus to Manaus tours (11)
• Family from Manaus (11)
• Explorer from Manaus (6)