Renowned as the planet's greatest ecological reserve, home to exceptional fauna and flora as well as indigenous communities, the Brazilian Amazon is the ultimate dream for many travelers passionate about nature and adventure. Discover 6 must-do activities during a trip to the Brazilian Amazon.

1. Set Sail on a Voyage Along the Amazon River

What better way to explore part of the Amazon River than by boat cruise? Beyond observing the wild animals inhabiting the waters and forests of the Amazon, it's also an opportunity to meet local communities. To do this, we invite you aboard the prestigious MV DESAFIO, a magnificent sailing vessel with a stunning wooden hull. This perfectly equipped and ultra-comfortable ship is ideal for those seeking to discover the Amazon authentically while enjoying complete comfort. For your information, the cruise departs from the Manaus waterfront.

2. Take a Canoe Adventure on the Amazon

For travelers wishing to venture into the more remote corners of the Brazilian Amazon River, nothing beats a canoe expedition! Most excursions offer motorized canoes, which allow you to reach areas often inaccessible by cruise boat. You'll be able to fully enjoy this escape while observing river wildlife up close, including birds and crocodiles, as well as plant species characteristic of the Amazon region such as giant water lilies. 

To embark on a canoe excursion through the Amazon, we recommend the Anavilhanas National Park where the fluvial archipelago represents 60% of the park's total surface area. Beyond observing Amazonian fauna and flora, you can also stop at typical villages of the Brazilian indigenous community such as Três Bocas and Terra Prata. A visit that will give you insight into their ancestral way of life. 

3. Explore the Igapó, the Mythical Flooded Forest 

The Igapó refers to the section of the Amazon rainforest that becomes submerged when the Amazon River floods, creating the famous flooded forest. To discover this aquatic and botanical labyrinth, you can venture out in a canoe. Gliding between the submerged tree canopies is a truly unique experience. Beyond the landscapes you'll encounter—sometimes seemingly surreal—you may also spot wild animals such as monkeys, sloths, tapirs, and numerous birds including toucans, parrots, herons, woodpeckers, and birds of prey. The location is indeed considered an exceptional site for birdwatching enthusiasts! 

Note: to explore these incredible water trails through the Amazon rainforest, you must travel during the rainy season, which typically runs from December through May.

4. Watch Pink Dolphins at Flutuante dos Botos

Make the most of your stay in the Manaus region to witness the incredible pink dolphins of the Amazon inhabiting the waters of the Rio Negro. These freshwater creatures, also called Botos, can be observed at Recanto dos Botos. Meeting them promises unforgettable moments… Also take advantage of this escape to witness a phenomenon unique in the world: the meeting of the dark waters of the Rio Negro with those of the Solimões River. You'll be able to see a clear demarcation as the waters don't mix.

5. Trek Through the Amazon Rainforest with a Guide 

The Amazon rainforest is often considered the planet's lungs. Over 55 million years old, the forest harbors animal and plant species that have adapted throughout the ages. To learn more about Amazonian fauna and flora, the best approach is to trek with a local guide who will reveal all the secrets of this extraordinary nature. You might, for example, explore the Anavilhanas National Park along the Barro Branco trail where you can observe mythical trees such as tauaré, cedrinho, jacareúba, chestnut, sapucaia, and utucurana trees. 

For adventurers, also consider a night expedition. Departing from Manaus, our guides can take you to the Igarapés to observe nocturnal wildlife such as alligators… Excitement guaranteed! 

6. Meet the Amazon Tribes

While the Amazon fascinates nature and wildlife lovers, it is also home to numerous tribes. During your trip to the Brazilian Amazon, we invite you to meet some of these indigenous communities. You can visit the preserved village of Acajatuba. Accessible only by boat, it is home to approximately 200 people. You'll discover the rituals and customs of this local population as well as their artisanal craftsmanship. Among other villages worth visiting are the Terra Prata indigenous community village and the Jaraqui community village.