What is the climate in Manaus, Brazil?

Situated in the middle of the world’s largest rainforest, Manaus is the capital of the Brazilian state of Amazonas. With a population of more than two million, it is one of the country’s largest cities. And its climate is one of its biggest draws – hot, humid and wet all year round. This tropical climate is known as the Af-‌humid subtropical climate and has distinct wet and dry seasons.

The wet season in Manaus

Manaus has one of the longest wet seasons in Brazil, typically lasting from December to May. Although often referred to as a “rainy season’, the area also experiences heavy showers and thunderstorms in this period. Owing to its position in the middle of the Amazon rainforest, rain is a regular occurrence in Manaus and there isn’t a great variety throughout the seasons. However, this wet season generally has heaver rains and longer showers, with an average rainfall of around 1,365 mm each year, compared to an average of 1,028 mm during the dry season.

Manaus’ wet season tends to be particularly hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C. During this six-month period, relative humidity has been known to reach unbearably high points of up to 85%. It is during this time that most of the area’s wildlife begins to reproduce and thrive – from species such as macaws and sloths to snakes and even frogs.

The dry season in Manaus

The counterpart to this long wet season is a shorter dry season. From June to November, temperatures remain warm but more bearable than during the wet season, with highs reaching around 33–35°C. This dry season also offers more favourable weather for sightseeing and exploring what the city has to offer. It also generally sees much less rain than the wet season – but that doesn’t mean it never rains. In between October and November, Manaus can experience its second-driest period of the year, known as “outono seco’ (dry autumn). Relative humidity tends to be far lower during this period, dipping as low as a comfortable 60%.

Manaus’ overall climate

It’s worth noting that while seasonal patterns may provide you with an insight into Manaus’ overall climate, they don’t tell you everything. The city is notorious for its ever-changing weather. It can be sunny and dry one hour and heavy showers the next. In fact, hitting the jackpot with a full day of sunny weather is not uncommon! This unpredictability of climate makes Manaus an exciting prospect for tourism – no two days ever feel the same.

If you’re looking for more guidance on Manaus’ climate and temperature variations throughout the year, this comprehensive temperature graph offers an accurate picture of what you can expect during your visit. Visitors should note that Manaus lies just above the equator and so has little variation between its hottest and coldest months.

Although Manaus is a tropical city, known for its long wet season and heavy rainfall, it still offers plenty of varieties throughout the year thanks to its unpredictable weather patterns. Its heaving wildlife is truly a sight to behold no matter when you choose to visit, and its passionate local culture inspires anyone who takes it all in. It may not boast as many tourist attractions or activities as Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo, but Manaus certainly has its own unique spectacle that will leave all those who visit wanting more.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Manaus, Brazil

Manaus, the capital city of the Amazonas state in Brazil, is known for its unique location at the heart of the Amazon rainforest and its vibrant culture. Tucked away in the Northern region of the country, Manaus offers a wide array of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and culture. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at everything the city has to offer, from local attractions to off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

1. Amazon Theatre: This iconic landmark, completed in 1896, is an architectural masterpiece that serves as a symbol of Manaus’s cultural heritage. The interior of this opera house is just as breathtaking as its exterior, with ornate details and a stunning chandelier.

2. Meeting of the Waters: Witness the incredible phenomenon where the dark waters of the Rio Negro meets the lighter waters of the Solimões River, without mixing for several miles. There are plenty of guided river tours that take you along the two rivers to witness this natural beauty.

3. Ponta Negra: A popular tourist spot located on the banks of the Rio Negro, Ponta Negra offers stunning views of the river and the nearby Amazon rainforest.

Dining and Nightlife

1. Banana da Terra: Boasting a ambiance of a rustic Amazonian village, this restaurant-lounge infuses local ingredients and traditional recipes with contemporary flair in order to create elevated renditions of dishes like muqueca, the classic seafood stew.

2. Choupana: This restaurant offers an authentic Amazonian experience, with exotic meats and fishes like pirarucu and tambaqui, and a jungle-like setting in the heart of the city.

3. Porão do Alemão: For a more laid back vibe, head over to Porão do Alemão to try a cold beer and some of the best bar food in the city. The crowd is young and the atmosphere is always energetic and lively.

Cultural Experiences

1. Indian Museum: This small but impressive museum features a collection of historical artifacts, including pottery, musical instruments, and clothing and weaponry of indigenous tribes from the Amazon region.

2. Rio Negro Palace: The official residence of the Governor of Amazonia, Rio Negro Palace is a historic and beautiful site due to its original Art Nouveau decor and architecture.

3. Manaus samba schools: Samba is an essential part of the Brazilian culture and Manaus is no exception. If you are lucky to be in town in February or March, you can catch the city’s festival with electrifying Samba parades and performances.

Local History

1. Municipal Market of Manaus (Mercado Adolpho Lisboa): This indoor marketplace is a must-see for visitors, providing a window into the city’s past as a center for rubber production. As you wander through the stalls, you’ll find everything from fresh produce to local crafts.

2. Palacete Provincial de Manaus: Formerly the headquarters of the state government, this historic building now houses a cultural center and museum featuring historical exhibits and temporary art installations.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

1. Jaú National Park: Located outside the city, Jaú National Park is one of the largest protected areas in South America. It boasts a variety of wildlife including jaguars, manatees, and river otters, as well as a rare Amazonian white dolphin.

2. Cachoeira de Santuário: This waterfall tucked away in the heart of the Amazon jungle is less frequented by tourists, but its natural beauty is awe-inspiring. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is ideal for a refreshing swim in the heat.

In conclusion, Manaus is a truly unique destination in Brazil and a city that should not be missed. From the cultural landmarks to the beautiful natural wonders, Manaus offers something for every type of traveler. We hope this insider’s guide has been helpful in your journey to discovering this hidden gem tucked away in the Amazon rainforest.