The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil is one of my favorite places in the country and the world. It’s a place of adventure, discovery, and connection with nature on a level that’s hard to describe. There’s something truly special about immersing yourself in the raw power of nature and seeing firsthand how wildlife and local communities coexist in this vast ecosystem. Whether gliding down the river in a small boat, spotting exotic animals during a jungle hike, or learning from Indigenous guides about traditional ways of life, the Amazon offers countless unforgettable experiences.
Best Time to Visit
The Rainforest is a year-round attraction, but you should plan your visit during the season that fascinates you the most. However, it’s important to note that global warming is affecting the Amazon, and each year, the volume of water in the wet season is decreasing as it’s not raining as much as it should. Plan your visit accordingly, but talk with local tours to double-check the situation.
Winter Amazônico
Winter Amazônico, which typically spans from March to July, doesn’t mean cold temperatures but increased rainfall and slightly milder weather. At the beginning of the season, river beaches are still visible. As the months go by, the water levels rise, gradually covering them. The accumulation of rainwater leads to the formation of igapós—the magical flooded forests of the Amazon.
This is when the rivers reach their highest levels, and the water can even touch the tops of trees in some areas. This flooding can allow you to explore certain parts of the jungle by canoe or boat, granting you a unique perspective that’s harder to experience during Summer Amazônico.
Summer Amazônico
Summer Amazônico runs from August to February, characterized by receding water levels and rising temperatures. As the rains slow down, the Amazonian rivers begin to drop, revealing sandbanks and forming stunning freshwater beaches. By November, the rivers reach their lowest levels, making navigation more challenging in certain areas and creating picturesque river beaches. Close to the end of the season, the rains start again, gradually reversing the cycle and leading back into the Winter season.
During these months, hiking becomes much more enjoyable, with drier trails and fewer muddy patches. You’ll also find more exposed river beaches, making it a great time to relax by the water and explore trails that may be inaccessible during the wetter months.
How to get there
Most people begin their journey to the Amazon by flying into Manaus, the capital city of Brazil’s Amazonas state. Manaus is well-connected to major Brazilian cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Once you arrive in Manaus, you can continue into the rainforest through boat rides and road transport. The type of transportation will depend on where your lodge or tour is based—some are several hours away by river. In contrast, others are a shorter drive outside the city.
Another option is planning your Amazon adventure through other Brazilian gateway towns or neighboring countries. However, Manaus remains the most common jumping-off point because it has the largest airport in the region and a variety of tour operators. It’s wise to spend at least a day or two in the city before heading deep into the jungle so you can gather any last-minute supplies and acclimate to the hot, humid climate.
Choosing a tour company
Picking the right tour company can make or break your Amazon experience. A good company will not only ensure your safety. Still, it will also have knowledgeable guides who can help you spot wildlife and understand the intricate ecosystem. Look for operators who employ local guides who know the forest intimately and can share fascinating stories about its history and culture. This is crucial for an authentic experience and avoiding turning the visit into a “human safari” where communities are treated as mere attractions. Reading reviews and asking fellow travelers for recommendations can help you find a trustworthy operator.
Regarding accommodations, some tours offer basic but comfortable lodges, while others provide rustic campsites for a more immersive jungle experience. Most accommodations inside the Amazon will provide tours departing directly from the lodge, so checking the available options is a good idea. I chose to do all my tours with Iguana Tours and was very satisfied with the service. The price was affordable, they had local and experienced guides, and they even had English-speaking guides! I highly recommend them, and they are the go-to for most young people.
How much does it cost?
The cost of an Amazon tour can vary widely depending on the level of comfort and length of stay you choose. I paid 1300 BRL for a three-day experience, including accommodation, meals, transport, and guided tours. I found what I got to be an excellent deal, considering the quality of the guides and the overall organization. On the higher end, luxury cruises or all-inclusive jungle lodges can cost over $300 daily. These options might be worth considering if you prefer a more refined stay with added amenities.
Tips for a Great Experience
Exploring the Amazon is an unforgettable experience, but preparation can make all the difference. The jungle is beautiful, wild, and unpredictable, so knowing what to expect and how to adapt will help you make the most of your adventure. Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Why a Day Trip to the Amazon Didn't Work for Me
Is an Amazon day tour worth it? I took a trip to see the famous Meeting of the Waters but found the rest of the experience rushed and overly commercialized
What to Wear?
I highly recommend bringing breathable, light, and quick-drying clothes. Sturdy walking shoes and a good rain jacket are must-haves, as the rainforest can be unpredictable. In the jungle, I never walked with shorts or short sleeves because of the insects and the pointy leaves that can easily scratch your skin. Long, lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts kept me comfortable and protected throughout my journey.
Respecting Nature and Local Recommendations
The Amazon is a wild living place, and sightings of certain animals or ideal weather conditions are never guaranteed. Be patient, keep your eyes peeled, and trust your local guide’s expertise. Following local recommendations, such as staying on marked trails and avoiding unnecessary disturbances to wildlife, is crucial. Respecting indigenous customs and environmental guidelines helps preserve this incredible ecosystem for future visitors.
Using Repellent at all times
The mosquitoes in the Amazon are relentless, and repellent is your best friend. I always carried two types: one for my skin and another to apply to my clothes for extra protection. Even with that, I had to reapply frequently, especially after sweating or rain. Trust me, running out of repellent is not an option—you’ll want to have plenty on hand to keep the bites to a minimum and make your experience more enjoyable.
Another important consideration is protecting yourself from mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and yellow fever. While malaria is not present in every part of the Amazon, it’s worth consulting with a travel doctor to see if preventative medication is necessary for your itinerary. Yellow fever vaccination is highly recommended and often required to enter certain regions. Ensuring you have these health precautions in place will give you peace of mind and let you focus on enjoying the adventure.
If you feel more comfortable traveling with travel health insurance and need a recommendation, check this post where I share my insurance.
Travel Insurance Simplified: Your Guide to Safe and Secure Trips
Find affordable options and why travel insurance is essential for your next trip. Stay safe and enjoy your travels without unexpected troubles!
My Experience at Amazon Forest
I’ll be sharing my three-day experience at Amazon, starting from Manaus. While the Amazon is much more than just this gateway city, I think it’s a great place to start exploring this vast and incredible region.
Day 1: Arrival, Piranha and Alligators
The journey started with a bit of frustration—the driver forgot to pick me up at the hotel, which was disappointing. But after calling the tour company, they quickly sent another driver to get me and drive me to the meeting point. My group was waiting for me in this motorboat. We navigated to the black river to reach our first stop, a massive Samaúma tree. This incredible tree can live up to 120 years, and it was the most enormous tree I had ever seen, which I absolutely loved! Standing beneath it, I felt tiny yet connected to the vast ecosystem around me.
By 11:15 AM, we reached our lodge, Pousada Jacaré. After settling in and checking out the accommodations, we had a delicious local lunch, fueling up for the afternoon’s explorations. After lunch, we embarked on a boat ride through the flooded forest. Later, we tried our luck at piranha fishing before ending the day with a breathtaking sunset. As night fell, we ventured out for alligator spotting, where our guide impressively captured one with just his hands, letting us observe it up close and learn more about the animal before releasing it back into the wild.
Day 2: Hiking and Jungle Survival
This was the day I was most excited about. We started hiking around the jungle early and learned more about medicinal plants, towering trees, and survival techniques used by the indigenous people. I was amazed at how much knowledge is hidden within the jungle—it truly is nature’s pharmacy— and the guide’s knowledge was impressive, explaining how each plant had a purpose, from healing wounds to providing food. The jungle felt alive with history and tradition, making the experience even more fascinating. One of the most unexpected moments was trying the infamous larvae inside a coconut. I was hesitant at first, but in the spirit of adventure, I gave it a go—and to my surprise, it was okay!
By 11:30 AM, we were back at the lodge for a lunch break, but the adventure was far from over. In the afternoon, we packed up and set out for an overnight stay in the jungle. Sleeping in a hammock, surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest, was exhilarating and humbling. As expected, it rained during the night, which made it a bit hard to sleep, but I managed to sleep very well since I’m used to sleeping in the wild. However, my group was not as accustomed, and they were on edge the whole night, worried about jaguars, anacondas, and spiders. By morning, they came out of the experience saying, ‘This is the craziest thing I’ve ever done; I didn’t sleep at all but loved it!’ The transition from day to night was something I won’t forget—the moment the jungle switched to its nocturnal soundtrack was surreal.
Day 3: Dolphins and Indigenous Encounters
Waking up in the jungle was a nice feeling. We had breakfast, packed up our equipment, and set off for one of the most awaited parts of the trip for most people—seeing the pink river dolphins. I appreciated that several rules were in place to ensure this interaction wasn’t detrimental to the dolphins. To be honest, the dolphin was uglier than I expected, but I ended up enjoying the experience much more than I thought I would.
The next stop was an Indigenous community, which was my favorite experience! We were welcomed with traditional dances and vibrant music, immediately immersing us in their culture. They shared their food, allowing us to taste flavors deeply tied to their traditions. They showcased intricate handmade garments that told stories of their ancestors and way of life. It was fascinating to see how they maintain their traditions while coexisting with the modern world. Then, I got to try paricá powder. This intense and unique ritual deepened my connection with their customs even further. As there’s so much to unpack from this incredible moment, you can read it in a separate post.
We returned to the lodge for our final meal by noon before returning to Manaus. As we traveled the highway, I couldn’t help but reflect on everything I had experienced.
My Experience Inhaling Paricá in the Amazon Forest
Sharing my experience in sacred tradition with the healing of Paricá in the Amazon
Is Amazon Forest Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Visiting the Amazon is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that leaves a deep impression. The raw beauty, the incredible wildlife, and the rich cultural encounters make every challenge—the humidity, the mosquitos, or the unpredictable rain—completely worth it. There is something transformative about immersing yourself in a place so wild and alive. If you have the chance, go. The Amazon is not just a destination; it’s an adventure that stays with you forever. The Amazon has left its mark on me, and I know I’ll be back soon to explore even deeper into its wonders.
Share This Article
What to read next
Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. We may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you click one of them. Thank you for your support!