Things to do in  Manaus

The gateway to the Brazilian Amazon is reachable primarily by boat and plane, and the forested landscape has been remarkably well-preserved. Travelers in search of an epic foray into the rain forest inevitably pass through this concrete jungle as a departure point. Manaus mixes cultures from the surrounding native tribes and the rubber boom days long ago. Explore this bustling city on a private or small-group tour with an expert guide to see where the Rio Negro and the Solimões rivers meet at the edge of the city, known as the ‘Meeting of the Waters’ due to the different shades running side-by-side into the Amazon River. Tour Manaus’ highlights by speedboat or land, including the Rio Negro Palace (now a cultural center), the opulent City Hall, open-air markets selling goods harvested from the river and the jungle, and the famous Amazonas Opera House. Most travelers use Manaus as a departure point for adventures in the Amazon rain forest, and a variety of tours suit every budget, schedule, and set of interests. Embark on a day trip to the nearby Presidente Figueiredo waterfalls to explore and swim, or book an all-out survival trek with a guide into the deep rain forest, for a few days or a week. Get ready to fish, paddle, or camp your way through the inimitable rain forest.