What to do if you are visiting Manaus?

Manaus is Brazil’s gateway to the Amazon rainforest. As an adventurer, traveler, or explorer you can imagine the exotic sites, natural wonders, and areas of interest Manaus has to offer. From river cruises to take you through the Amazon Basin to hikes in the jungle that boast of spectacular wildlife, Manaus has something for everyone – even if you’re only visiting for a few days.

In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know to get you ready for your Manaus adventure. Whether you’re a wondering tourist or an experienced Amazon explorer, here are the top activities and sights to add to your Manaus trip.

Whale Watching in Amazon National Park

If you’re headed to Manaus over the summer months, be sure to add the whale watching summer season to your itinerary. From July to October each year, humpback whales flock to the coast of Brazil to give birth to their young. Head to Amazonas National Park for the chance to join boat tours that will provide close-up views and opportunities to learn more about these amazing creatures from a knowledgeable guide.

Take a Cruise Through The Amazon River

Every traveler heading to Manaus should take a cruise down the Rio Negro, arguably the most famous part of the Amazon basin, to experience the true beauty of the region. Sign up for a few-hour day tour with one of the many tour companies in Manaus for a memorable experience winding through the river. During your cruise, you can spot all sorts of wildlife including brightly colored birds, caimans, monkeys, and maybe even a few lucky visitors have spotted huge arawana and electric eels! So make sure you pack your camera and binoculars, just in case.

Explore Adolpho Ducke Forest Reserve

Adolpho Ducke Forest Reserve is a protected jungle area in Manaus and it’s an absolute must-see if you’re looking for more than just beaches and souvenirs during your visit. This reserve is home to more than 200 species of birds and 61 types of mammals as well as countless plants and tree species. Tour guides provide all sorts of activities such as canoe tours, hikes, and night safaris so you can get up close and personal with the jungle inhabitants safely.

Visit Indian Villages

Experience the true culture of Manaus when travelling to some of the numerous Indian villages located within the region. Depending on your route and interests, you can explore different villages such as Tenharim or Mayoruna, each of which feature unique lifestyle, traditions and customs. Most villages offer visitors the opportunity to sample traditional food and stay overnight.

Shop at Floating Markets

Manaus is known for its floating markets and they are definitely one of the biggest attractions in the region. Head over to Mercado Ver-o-Peso, the historic public market of the city located at the banks of the Rio Negro for an authentic shopping experience like no other. There’s no telling what valuable treasures you might find here as you wander through stalls offering exotic spices, handcrafted jewelry and woodworks, clothing and souvenirs – which makes this market great location for haggling with locals for trinkets and keepsakes.

Tap into Manaus’s Nightlife

Although not a Latin America city renowned for its nightlife, don’t miss out on experiencing Manaus’ lively urban side while visiting this Amazon city. Throughout Manaus there are unique but exciting nightlife options such as super samba discos or sandbank restaurants on Ananau river. Brazilian music is popular everywhere so dancing until morning is definitely one thing not to miss out on during your time in Manaus!

Conclusion

By no means is this a comprehensive list of things there is to do in Manaus, but I do believe it should give you a good idea of activities to add to your agenda when you get there. With its intriguing mix of gorgeous nature, vibrant culture and Amazonian highlights, there is something here for everyone – even if it is just taking in all its atmosphere! Feel free to explore further but just make sure the necessary precautions are taken before venturing into unexplored areas. In any case, Manaus is sure to be a memorable trip!
For more information about visiting Manaus make sure Visit Brasil is at top of your reference list.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Manaus

Manaus, the capital of Brazil’s Amazonas state, is a city that is not on many traveler’s radar. Once a center of the rubber industry, the city’s rich history and culture offer a truly unique experience for those who visit. From its hidden gems to its culinary scene and cultural offerings, here’s an insider’s guide to making the most of your time in Manaus.

Local Attractions

A must-visit destination in Manaus is the Meeting of the Waters, where the black waters of the Rio Negro converge with the brown waters of the Solimões River. Rather than taking a tourist boat, opt for a local ferry to get up close and personal with this natural wonder. Another highlight is the historic Mercado Adolpho Lisboa, where you can find both food and crafts. Be sure to visit the nearby Palácio Rio Negro, a magnificent 19th-century building that was once the governor’s mansion.

For a unique view of the city, hike up to the Cachoeira Alta viewpoint for a stunning panoramic view of Manaus and the Amazon River. You can also explore the Bosque da Ciencia, a science park featuring local flora and fauna, or visit the Praia da Lua beach, a secluded spot on the outskirts of the city.

Dining Spots

When it comes to dining in Manaus, the local cuisine is not to be missed. Head to the Mercado Municipal, where you can sample a variety of dishes, including the famous tucumã ice cream made from the fruit of a palm tree. Don’t miss the chance to try tambaqui, a local fish that is often served grilled or fried. For a more upscale dining experience, check out Banzeiro and its upscale twist on traditional recipes, or Casa de Frios, which serves premium cuts of meat and an extensive wine list.

Cultural Experiences

Manaus is known for its rich cultural heritage, including indigenous influences mixed with Portuguese traditions and the echoes of the rubber boom. Visit the Teatro Amazonas, an exquisite 19th-century opera house, and take a tour of the building, including backstage areas. During the day, check out the Museu do Indio, which exhibits indigenous artifacts and objects from the traditional way of life on the Amazon River. If you are lucky enough to visit during the Boi-Bumba festival, you will witness a mesmerizing blend of indigenous, African, and European traditions in one of Brazil’s biggest cultural celebrations.

Local History

Manaus is a city with a fascinating history. Take a tour of the Palace of Justice to learn about the rubber boom, a time when the city became one of the wealthiest in Brazil, and the mansions of the rubber barons that once lined the streets. A visit to the Museu do Seringal (rubber museum) and the Vila Paraíso, a restored rubber plantation, will give you an insight into the hardships of the workers who made the rubber boom possible.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience in Manaus, head to the Rio Negro and navigate among the treetops on a canopy tour or go zip-lining through the jungle. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a trip to the Pico da Neblina, the highest peak in Brazil, or embark on a boat trip to the Presidente Figueiredo Waterfalls, a hidden gem with crystal-clear water and stunning rock formations.

In conclusion, Manaus offers a unique and authentic experience for those who venture off the beaten path. From its rich cultural heritage and local cuisine to its hidden gems and natural wonders, this city has something for everyone. Be sure to immerse yourself in the culture, connect with locals, and explore the unconventional to make the most of your visit to Manaus.