Things to do in  Amazon

The largest rainforest on Earth, the Amazon spans more than 2 million square miles (5.5 million square kilometers) of South America. Home to around 40,000 species of plants, several thousand species of birds, more than 400 mammals, and millions of different insects, it’s one of the planet’s vital organs—and an adventurer’s playground.

The mighty Amazon River and its enormous, thickly forested basin are the heart of South America and the guardian of 20 percent of the Earth's fresh water. Visitors from around the globe come to Iquitos to cruise the river's storied waters and catch a glimpse of diverse fauna both above and below the surface.

The city of Manaus lies at the confluence of two great rivers, the Solimões and the Rio Negro. Due to the different colors of the two rivers, it's possible to see precisely where they meet, which is what makes the Meeting of Waters, or Encontro das Aguas, a checklist must-do for visitors to Manaus.

Located about 79 miles (127 kilometers) north of Manaus in Brazil’s Amazonas state, the municipality of Presidente Figueiredo is centrally located to some of the country’s most scenic attractions, making it a popular hiking destination. Nicknamed the “Land of Waterfalls,” it claims more than 100 waterfalls, including Iracema Falls (Cachoeira da Iracema) and Araras Falls (Cachoeira das Araras), as well as grottoes and lagoons.

Much of Manaus’ wealth came from the rubber boom, during which it was the region's most-important port city. Manaus Opera House (Amazon Theatre) is a fine example of the Belle Epoque-style architecture that was popular during this epoque; the interior features some 200 Italian chandeliers and furnishings imported from Europe.

The Rio Negro (Black River) is not only the largest tributary of the great Amazon River, it’s also the largest blackwater river in the world. Its color—a hue akin to a strong tea—comes from high concentrations of humic acid. Despite that, the river supports more than 700 kinds of fish, making it a rich resource for the Indigenous communities who have lived along its banks for centuries.

Manaus, the largest urban area in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest, is also the most important port in the state of Amazonas. The Port of Manaus is as far up the Amazon River as oceangoing cruises can get, and it serves as a gateway to adventures in the rainforest.

Under decorative Art Nouveau ironwork rafters is Manaus’ municipal market, a central point for foodies, locals, chefs, and travelers alike. Vendors and market stalls selling all varieties of food and produce—including tropical and exotic fruits, fresh fish, and meat—fill the interior, along with craft and art stalls and souvenir shops.

Aptly nicknamed the “Land of Waterfalls,” Brazil’s Presidente Figueiredo municipality claims over 100 waterfalls, with Iracema Waterfall (Cachoeira de Iracema) chief among them. Tucked away in the Amazon rainforest, its cool, clear waters attract birds endemic to the area and offer a refreshing place to swim.

Built during the “Rubber Boom” of the early 1900s, the Rio Negro Palace began life as a grand mansion home, and became the seat of local governance, before becoming a local cultural center open to the public in 1997. Now it houses an art gallery and a museum, with performance spaces for local productions all under one ornate roof.

Giant water lilies, flooded forests, fertile lowlands, and rare wildlife are just part of what makes the 22,000-acre (9,000-hectare January Ecological Park so appealing. Visitors can navigate the relaxing waters while searching for rare tropical birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and brightly colored butterflies along the verdant lakeshore.

Ponta Negra Beach (Praia de Ponta Negra) on the Rio Negro is just over 8 miles (13 km) from downtown Manaus in a neighborhood known for its abundance of night clubs, bars, and restaurants. Visitors head to this popular beach destination not just to spend a day enjoying the sun and sand, but also to enjoy the area's famous nightlife.

The Sanctuary Waterfall (Cachoeira do Santuário) in Presidente Figueiredo is a top spot for travelers looking for their ideal Amazonian swimming experience. Stationed along the Urubui River, some 62 miles (100 kilometers) north of Manaus, the falls rush over rugged, vine-covered rock formations into pools perfect for taking a quick dip in.

A lush enclave amid the vast Adolpho Ducke Forest Reserve, the Manaus Botanical Gardens (MUSA - Museu da Amazonia) offer you the chance to experience the wonders of the Amazon without straying too far from the city.

Located on the main square of Manaus, the Palace of Justice (Palácio de Justiça) was built during the golden years of Brazil’s “rubber boom” in the late 19th century. The palace, with its grand architecture inspired by the French Second Empire and Neoclassicism, is a testament to just how wealthy the region was during its heyday.