Brazil's Northern Region
Amazon Rainforest Travel Guide
Embark on a thrilling adventure into the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, where unparalleled biodiversity and untouched wilderness await.
The Amazon Rainforest spans nine countries, with the largest portion in Brazil, covering about 60% of the country’s landmass. It is home to the world’s richest biodiversity, including thousands of plant, animal, and insect species, as well as numerous indigenous tribes. Accessible from cities like Manaus and Santarem, the Amazon offers eco-tourism experiences like river cruises, rainforest treks, and wildlife exploration.
Top 5 Things to See & Do in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest
Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see monkeys, jaguars, pink river dolphins, caimans, sloths, and an incredible variety of birds. Check out the ultimate birdwatching guide for Brazil.
River Cruises: Explore the Amazon and its tributaries by boat, a great way to see wildlife including the pink river dolphins. Consider taking the multi-day slow-boat from Manaus to Santarem, or all the way to Belem.
Jungle Trekking: Hike through the forest to observe plants, insects, and ecosystems. Some tours also offer night hikes or boat trips to see nocturnal animals.
Go to the beach: The beach? In the Amazon? Absolutely! In the dry season, sandbanks form and provide the opportunity to swim in calm waters. One great place to see Amazonian beaches is Alter do Chao.
Canoeing & Fishing: Popular activities include piranha fishing and canoeing through flooded forests.
Where is the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Closest airport
- Eduardo Gomes International Airport Manaus (MAO)
- Santarém International Airport - Maestro Wilson Fonseca (STM)
Main bus terminal
- Terminal Rodoviário de Manaus
- Terminal Rodoviário de Santarém
The Port of Manaus, The Port of Santarém, Porto de Belém
Main ports
How to get to the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest
To reach the Amazon jungle in Brazil, you can begin your journey by flying into one of the three major gateway cities: Manaus, Belem, or Santarem, each of which has an international airport. These cities are situated along the Amazon River:
Manaus is the largest city in the Amazon Rainforest region, located near the confluence of the Negro and Solimões Rivers.
Santarém is situated between Manaus and Belem, at the meeting point of the Tapajós and Amazon Rivers.
Belém lies at the mouth of the Amazon River on Brazil’s north coast, where the river empties into the Atlantic Ocean.
Visiting the Amazon from Manaus
From Manaus, you can access the jungle via boat or smaller regional flights to various lodges and eco-resorts situated along the Amazon River and its tributaries. Alternatively, river cruises departing from Manaus offer a unique way to explore the rainforest. You can also take a bus from Manaus to reach more remote villages, before changing to a boat.
Visiting the Amazon from Santarem
In Santarem, located between Manaus and Belem, you can explore the Amazon by taking boat trips to nearby jungle areas and visiting the Tapajós National Forest. Santarém also serves as a gateway to the meeting of the Tapajós and Amazon Rivers.
Visiting the Amazon from Belem
If you start your Amazon adventure in Belém, located at the Amazon River's mouth, you can also take riverboats to travel upstream into the heart of the Amazon. However, remember that travelling upstream takes considerably more time.
How to get around the Amazon Rainforest
Getting around the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil requires a mix of transportation methods due to the region’s dense jungle and vast river systems. Manaus is the primary entry point for many visitors, though it is not accessible by bus from other parts of Brazil. Travelers typically arrive in Manaus by air or riverboat. Once there, you can explore the surrounding areas using local buses or boats. While Manaus has a network of roads connecting to nearby towns and communities, the most extensive and reliable transportation system in the region is by river, with boats connecting Manaus to smaller towns like Parintins, Tefé, and Barcelos. Riverboats provide a unique and immersive way to explore the rainforest, and private speedboats can take you even deeper into remote areas.
There are many possible villages to visit from Manaus. One option is Novo Airao, a sleepy village located west of Manaus. It is accessible by bus, taking a little over 4 hours, and running twice per day, or on an overnight boat. It is a great option for those wishing to see the river dolphins, take boat tours, and offers cheaper tour options than Manaus.
For those who love waterfalls, Presidente Figueiredo is a a village located north of Manaus, home to a number of magnificent caves and waterfalls.
Santarem, another significant Amazonian city, also serves as a hub for travelers. Like Manaus, Santarem has a bus station that connects to nearby towns such as Alter do Chão, a popular destination known for its beautiful river beaches.
Alter do Chao is a hidden gem located one hour drive from Santarem, and it is possible to reach it by public bus for R$5. The bus departs from Avenida Rui Barbosa in front of Paroquia Sao Sebastiao (map). Ilha do Amor, a popular river beach, can be reached by canoe in 5 minutes from Alter do Chao.
In Santarem, as in much of the Amazon, boats are essential for traveling to more remote areas or for exploring the region's waterways. Ferries and smaller boats connect Santarem to nearby villages and other riverside communities. Whether using buses for short distances or boats for longer journeys, Santarem provides a blend of land and water transportation options to navigate the unique landscape of the Amazon.
Things to Know Before You Go to the Amazon Jungle
Vaccinations & Health Precautions when visiting the Amazon
Yellow Fever Vaccine: Strongly recommended for travelers to the Amazon. Brazil is a yellow fever-endemic area.
Malaria Prevention: Bring anti-malarial medication (e.g., doxycycline, mefloquine). Use mosquito repellent (containing DEET) and wear long sleeves, especially during dawn and dusk.
Other Vaccines: Check for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies vaccines, depending on your activities and length of stay.
Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice made from tap water.
Traveler’s Diarrhea: Carry oral rehydration salts and medication like loperamide for emergencies.
When is the Best Time to visit the Amazon
Dry Season (June to November): Fewer mosquitoes, easier hiking, and more wildlife spotting opportunities. Water levels are lower, which makes exploring trails easier. River beaches can only be visited during the dry season when the water level is lower.
Rainy Season (December to May): Flooded forest areas offer better boat access to remote places and wildlife, but there’s heavy rainfall, higher humidity, and more mosquitoes.
Hot and Humid Climate: Expect consistently high temperatures (25°C–32°C or 77°F–90°F) with very high humidity.
Heavy Rains: Downpours can be sudden and intense, especially during the rainy season, so be prepared to get wet.
What to pack for your trip to the Amazon
Light, Breathable Clothing: Choose long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics to protect against insects and humidity.
Waterproof Gear: A rain jacket or poncho and waterproof bag for electronics (especially in the rainy season).
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support for walking on muddy or uneven terrain.
Hat & Sunglasses: For protection against intense sun, even in shaded jungle areas.
Bug Repellent: Bring strong insect repellent (at least 30% DEET or Picaridin) to combat mosquitoes and other insects.
Personal First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic, medications for cuts, burns, and stings, and anti-diarrheal medicine.
Cash: Always carry some cash for small expenses, tips, or markets in rural areas. ATMs are scarce in the jungle, so withdraw enough in larger cities like Manaus.
Wildlife & Safety Tips for visiting the Amazon
Respect Wildlife: Avoid approaching or touching wild animals; many can be dangerous or carry diseases.
Wear High Boots: Protection against snakes and other ground-dwelling animals and insects.
Insects: Be prepared for encounters with mosquitoes, spiders, ants, and possibly bees. Consider wearing permethrin-treated clothing for added protection.
Stay with a Guide: Always travel with an experienced guide who knows the terrain, wildlife, and safety protocols.
Communications & Connectivity in the Amazon
Limited Cell Service: In remote areas of the Amazon, cell phone reception is unreliable or non-existent.
Wi-Fi: Some eco-lodges and hotels offer Wi-Fi, but speeds can be slow, and it may not be available in all locations.
Travel insurance for a trip to the Amazon
Comprehensive Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation since medical facilities are limited in remote areas.
Emergency Evacuation Plan: In case of serious health issues or accidents, you may need an emergency evacuation to a larger city like Manaus. Make sure your insurance covers this.
Additional Tips for a trip to the Amazon
Amazonian Cuisine: Fresh fish (like pirarucu and tambaqui), tropical fruits, and manioc are staples. Be adventurous, but ensure food is cooked thoroughly.
Respect Indigenous Communities: If visiting indigenous tribes, follow the guidance of your guide, ask for permission before taking photos, and learn about their customs.
Responsible Tourism: Avoid contributing to pollution by minimizing waste, using biodegradable products, and following eco-friendly travel practices.
Environmental Regulations: Respect the protected status of many areas. Do not remove plants, animals, or artifacts from the forest.
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