Exploring Manaus And Beyond
The trip to Manacapuru River is an adrenalin filled adventure that should not be missed. Manacapuru is a tributary of the Amazon River and is located about 75 miles west of Manaus. The water is black and acidic in nature thus killing all the mosquito larvae. The calm black waters are a splendid sight to behold amidst the beautiful surroundings. There are various tours and trips that you can choose from which offer a host of activities that will get your blood pumping.
You can choose to take a speed boat and explore the amazing scenery. There are various hiking trips that you can choose to go on to explore that beautiful untouched forests. One can observe the animals at sunrise or sunset according to preference. Some trips also provide opportunity for tourists to meet with the local indigenous people and observe their lifestyles. You can even request to stay overnight in a native family's home to really get the feel of the community and way of life. You are given a lot of information about eco tourism, conservation and even a crash course on jungle survival. For some more excitement you can choose to go piranha and peacock bass fishing or for the brave hearted, the Caiman /Alligator catch and releasing may be more appealing.
A trip to Mamori is another activity you can choose to do. This trip can range from 2 to 4 days depending on your preference. The Mamori lake area offers an ideal base to explore the surrounding Amazon forest. The tours usually start at Ceasa port from where you will be taken by motor boat across the Amazon River where you will pass by the famous Meeting of the Water. Once you reach Careiro at the other side you will be taken by van to the lodge. There are several activities offered that will help you explore and appreciate your surroundings. Caiman Spotting, Piranha fishing, Spearing of monkey fish will appeal to the more daring. Canoeing, trekking and observation of the birds and wildlife are other activities offered. You can also get a crash course on jungle survival and information on various tropical medicinal plants. Tents to camp in the jungle are offered. Be sure to take lots of mosquito repellants as this place is teeming with them. If you can speak Portuguese or are travelling in a group that has someone who can speak the language then you can avoid all the middlemen and contact the owner of the lodge who will provide you with all the required information and assistance.
The Anavilhanas Archipelago is the largest fresh water archipelago located about 100 kms upstream from Manaus. It is a must see sight that will definitely become an unforgettable adventure. It is located on the Rio Negro and offers a unique ecological system of vast diversity in landscape and wildlife of the Amazon. The Anavilhanas comprises of 400 islands which offer lush forests and landscapes teeming with flora and fauna. You can choose the incredible sigh seeing tours that explore these beautiful landscapes. Various lodges even offer tree top accommodations which will prove to be a delight. Open air restaurant, private pools and bars provide the luxury aspect. The exploration activities will help you discover and appreciate the natural beauty of the Amazon. Diverse birds, various mammals and a variety of sea life are housed in these forests. During the rainy season half of the island is submerged and during the dry season the waters recede to from white sandy beaches. So plan your trip carefully to enjoy this experience to the maximum.