The Brazilian Amazon
The Amazon Rainforest is the largest remaining tropical forest on the planet, some six million square metres in size and covering 60% of the Brazilian land mass. It is one of the most diverse areas on earth, a habitat for millions of animals and plants, and of value because of its environmental function for the planet. It is also important culturally because of its ethnic indigenous population and its Indian river dwelling peoples.

Flights from other parts of Brazil to the Brazilian Amazon, arrive and depart (mainly) in Manaus and from here, there are three alternatives: accommodation at lodges, a river cruise or a combination of both. In terms of lodges, there is a good selection to choose from.
A stay at a lodge, broadly speaking, includes similar activities depending on length of stay and normally includes: walks through the jungle (not strenuous), canoe outings in the morning and/or afternoon, an outing in the evening to experience the jungle at night and search for alligators (some places may combine this with an afternoon outing that will return after dark) and a visit to a local community. Some people like to spend at least one night in the city of Manaus so that they can visit the famous Opera House.

Cruising is mainly by local-style boats, built or adapted specially for the purpose of tourism. Standards vary from basic local craft to some (very few) more upmarket vessels. Here we feature some samples of those we find more appealing, as they have scheduled departures, although other options are available and it is also possible to charter a boat for private use.