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The Amazon Rainforest Travel Guide

The Amazon can have a mysterious nature for first-time visitors.

We’ve made this Amazon Rainforest travel guide to help you find the best areas to visit. The guide will help you make the most of your experience.

We will cover the best areas to visit for deep rainforest adventures and where to go on short tours of 3-days.

We will also mention areas of the Amazon better for certain animals and plants. For example, clay licks provide fantastic places to see macaws and other parrots. These are only found in certain regions.

The different rainforest lodges and cruises also offer different activities. To jump straight to our recommended experiences, click the button below.

Jump straight to our selection of the top Amazon Rainforest Tours

First, let’s have an introduction to the incredible forest.

Rainforests contain impressive animals and plants. In total, the world’s rainforests cover only 7% of the Earth’s surface but contain 50% of all land-living species.

And the Amazon is the world’s largest container of wildlife.

The Amazon Rainforest covers 40% of the South American continent. This vast forest contains some of the world’s most untouched tropical wilderness.

The next largest rainforests of the Congo in Africa and the island of New Guinea can fit comfortably inside the vast expanse of Amazonia.

Within the Amazon Rainforest, you can find an incredible diversity of animals and plants. There are also wildlife-rich oxbow lakes and beautiful scenery to enjoy.

For example, the Manu National Park in southern Peru contains 10% of all the world’s bird species. It’s usual for national parks and reserves in the Amazon Rainforest to have more species of birds and other animals than entire countries.

For nature lovers, adventure seekers, or simply people looking for a different vacation, this makes the Amazon a perfect place to visit.

The Amazon also makes a great add-on to other South American attractions, such as the Galapagos Islands or Machu Picchu.

Countries in the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon Rainforest crosses nine nations and covers 40% of South America.

The majority of the rainforest is within Brazil and Peru. However, the rainforest also crosses Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia and Colombia. There is also a section crossing French Guiana, Guyana and Suriname.

The most bio-diverse area of rainforest is consistently found on the western side. This is the rainforest of Ecuador, Peru and western Brazil.

The protected areas in Peru and Ecuador especially set records for species diversity. The reason for this is thought to be the closeness to the Andes mountains. Another theory is that these were the refuges that remained forested during the last ice age.

There are some fantastic Amazon tours in Peru and in Ecuador’s rainforest .

The tributaries that start on the Andes trickle down to form the Amazon River. These tributaries provide nutrients and water to feed this incredible tropical forest.

Amazon Gateway Towns

The gateways where you enter the Amazon are towns and cities within the rainforest. A few main gateways are Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado and Manaus. These are inside the rainforest where you will arrive to begin your tour. They have the most options for higher quality Amazon tours, cruises and lodges.

The gateway cities were grown in size during the rubber boom. This is a period when the rise of the bicycle and automobile caused a massive demand for rubber. The rubber was sourced naturally from the Hevea brasiliensis rubber trees found in Amazonia.

The general rule for rainforest gateways is that the larger the town or city, the farther you have to travel from the gateway to find less disturbed rainforest.

The main gateways in Peru for the Amazon Rainforest are Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos. Puerto Maldonado is for the southern Amazon. Iquitos is for northern rainforest surrounding the Amazon River.

Iquitos is an especially good area to visit if you’re interested in a cruise. There are also fantastic deep Amazon experiences. Puerto Maldonado then has one of the most developed tourism industries in Amazonia. There are various rainforest lodges to discover.

Manaus in Brazil is the largest city in the Amazon Rainforest. This is another choice for visitors interested in an Amazon cruise. You can also visit from the southern Brazilian city of Alta Floresta or Tefe for wildlife-rich central rainforest.

In Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest, the main rainforest gateway is Puerto Francisco de Orellana, which is also known as ‘El Coca’. Coca is another port of the Amazon River. And this is where you can enjoy Amazon cruises and lodges. From here, explore the protected areas of the famous Yasuni National Park and Cuyabeno Reserve.

Amazon Rainforest Attractions

There are some fascinating attractions in the Amazon Rainforest. You can find oxbow lakes, clay licks, canopy towers and tall emergent trees.

Not limited to the lowland rainforest, you can also explore the mysterious cloud forests on the side of the Andes. Differing in altitude and climate, these forests are home to a completely new set of animals and plants.

The Amazon River

The Amazon River itself is a main attraction of the region. The river is between El Coca in Ecuador and Belem in Brazil where the river flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

The ports you can visit along the Amazon River include El Coca, Iquitos, Leticia, Tefe, Manaus and Belem. The Amazon River is best explore on an Amazon Rainforest cruise from these port cities.

Some of the favorite cruises include the Amazon River tours from Iquitos in northern Peru. These take you into the incredible flooded forest of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. You are not simply restricted to the vessel. You will enjoy guided skiff expeditions and forest walks for incredible wildlife experiences.

Oxbow Lakes

Oxbow lakes are areas where tributaries of the Amazon River once flowed but have since changed direction. This sometimes leaves behind oxbow-shaped bodies of water known as oxbow lakes. The lakes become very attractive for variety of animals and plants drawn by the water.

On tours of oxbow lakes, you can find many different animals. These often include the favorites Amazon animals. You can see giant river otters, black caiman, water birds, giant Arapaima fish and lake-visiting animals. These include many different monkeys, which feed from trees around the lake.

One of the most common animals around the oxbow lakes are the strange hoatzin birds. These are a chicken-sized bird that digest food by fermentation in a similar way to cows. Strangely, young hoatzins are born with a claw. This is used to cut through the shell of the egg but also to climb their way through the thick lake-side vegetation.

The lakes are also often surrounded by palms. And these are ideal nesting habitat for scarlet macaws and other parrots. This means you can often see different macaw parrots on short walks around the lakes.

Some great lodges in Peru to visit oxbow lakes include the Posada Amazonas Lodge , Refugio Amazonas Lodge and Tahuayo Lodge .

Clay licks are areas of exposed river bank where different animals come to feed on the clay itself. Over 50 different animals worldwide are known to use the licks. And the clay not only contains much needed salt, but also neutralizes toxins found in unripe fruits and seeds.

In South America and the Amazon Rainforest, one of the most iconic animals that visits the clay licks are the fantastic macaws.

Hundreds of macaws gather at the clay at one time and they present visitors with a fantastic display of sound and color. You can see all types of birds at different clay licks. Some of the licks are best for seeing scarlet macaws and other for the blue and gold macaws for example.

The rainforest of Puerto Maldonado in southern Peru is fortunate to contain the most clay licks of anywhere in Amazonia. This has created one of the most developed tourism industries in Amazonia.

Clay licks can be found throughout the Puerto Maldonado rainforest and the different protected areas. For example, for macaw clay licks, one of the best to see is the Chuncho clay lick in Peru’s southern Amazon. This is accessible from both the Tambopata Research Center and the Refugio Amazonas Lodge .

Nearby, there are also smaller clay licks for mammals, which you can also see from the Refugio Amazonas Lodge. Parakeet clay licks for small parrots can be been from the Posada Amazonas Lodge.

On cruises and lodge tours in Ecuador’s Amazon, you can also visit the small parakeet clay lick in the Yasuni National Park. You can visit the lick on tours from La Selva Lodge.

In the Brazilian side, you can see a mammal clay lick with a hide from the Cristalino Lodge.

In Peru, here’s a graph showing the different lodges and the most common mammals that visit the nearby clay licks.

Some of the lodges mentioned in the above table include:

• The Posada Amazonas
• The Refugio Amazonas

The Tambopata Research Center

The amazon villa, the cloud forest.

Cloud forests are defined as tropical forests at altitude dispersed with cloud cover. The Andean forests are home to one of the highest levels of species on Earth. And they are abundant with birds, including the world’s highest diversity of hummingbirds.

On tours of the cloud forest, you can find many different weird and wonderful animals and plants. As well as birds, see one of the highest diversities of orchids and epiphytes. Watch the different hummingbirds and visit the dancing ground of cock of the rocks. You can also see different mammals, including woolly monkeys, capuchins and even spectacled bears.

To visit the cloud forest, some fantastic tours are found in Ecuador and Peru. In Peru, you can visit the cloud forest of the incredible Manu National Park accessible from Cusco.

Protected Areas of Amazon Rainforest

There are some fantastic protected areas in the Amazon Rainforest. These areas have helped reduce rainforest deforestation. With this, they have helped protect many animals and plants. In and around these areas you have a higher chance of spotting iconic and famous species. They are also home to a higher level of biodiversity.

Some of the most accessible and diverse protected areas in the Amazon Rainforest include:

The Yasuni National Park, Ecuador

The Yasuni National Park is one of the most famous protected areas in the Amazon Rainforest. Protecting an astounding diversity of species, Yasuni has won world records for species richness.

Yasuni National Park is found in western Ecuador. And it is accessible from the rainforest gateway town of El Coca (Puerto Francisco de Orellana).

The park covers 1 million hectares of lowland tropical rainforest. And this protects many different animals and plants, including Amazon icons. Because of its ecological significance, the park is recognized by UNESCO as the Yasuni Biosphere Reserve.

There are fantastic rainforest lodges around the Yasuni National Park. Amazon River cruises also lead expeditions deep into the protected area. Two recommended lodges in surrounding rainforest are La Selva Lodge and the Sacha Lodge . We will mention more about these later.

The Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, Peru

A fantastic section of flooded Amazon forest, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve covers 2 million hectares of rainforest. You can find all the iconic animals and plants within the reserve. The wildlife includes pink river dolphins, different monkeys, sloths, toucans, parrots, anaconda and black caiman. There are also impressive plants like the giant water lilies and towering rainforest trees.

Full of beautiful scenery, the Pacaya is known as the forest of mirrors. The near perfect reflections in the water create stunning scenery. The reflections are caused by the Pacaya Samiria’s almost black nutrient-filled water. This also provides nourishment for the incredible diversity of animals and plants.

As this is such a large reserve of flooded rainforest, the best way to experience the Pacaya Samiria is on a cruise. There are some excellent Amazon River tours from Iquitos you can consider.

The cruise vessels take you on relaxing cruises up the Amazon and tributaries. And they also take you on guided tours through the forest.

Explore the forest and waterways on rainforest walks and guided skiff expeditions. Find several different monkeys, colorful birds and a high diversity of other animals and plants.

Recommended cruises include the fantastic Delfin vessels, such as the Delfin I, Delfin II and Delfin III.

The Delfin I

Offering an on-board experience second to none, the Delfin I Luxury Cruise begins in Iquitos, north Peru, and takes you ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all excursions, alcoholic beverages, juices, house wines, luxury transfers from & to Iquitos airport | 4, 5 days

The Delfin II

The Delfin II Luxury Amazon Cruise begins near Iquitos from the small town of Nauta. You will be transported in ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all excursions, select alcoholic beverages, juices, house wines with meals, luxury transfers from & to Iquitos airport | 4, 5 days

The Delfin III

The Delfin III provides a luxury cruise of the Amazon River. The vessel features hardwood floors, designer furniture and is ...

The Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve, Peru

The Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve is a section of Amazon Rainforest in northern Peru. And this is connected to the above mentioned Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.

However, the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo contains some more accessible higher ground forest. This means more opportunities for rainforest walks. This is an especially great place to find the iconic poison dart frogs.

The Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve contains an impressive diversity of animals and plants. Home to over 600 bird species, the reserve provides a draw for birdwatchers the world over. Spot different toucans, macaws, parrots, tanagers, cotingas and more. In addition to birds and poison dart frogs, see many different monkeys and other wildlife. You can also find sloths, tree-living anteaters, orchids, epiphytes and tall emergent trees

To explore the Tahuayo Reserve, you can stay at the Tahuayo Lodge . This is the only lodge within the reserve and you receive a private guide and custom itinerary as standard.

In addition to the main Tahuayo Lodge, you will also visit the Tahuayo Amazon Research Center. This has a 1,000 acre primate research grid to find many different monkeys and more.

The Tahuayo Lodge

From the Tahuayo Lodge, you will explore the Amazon Rainforest’s wildlife-rich Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve with a private guide on a ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation at 2 rainforest lodges, private guide, custom activities, transfers from and to Iquitos airport. | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 days+

The Tambopata National Reserve, Peru

The Tambopata National Reserve is found in southern Peru. This can be reached after only 30 minutes of travel time from the rainforest gateway town of Puerto Maldonado.

This section of Peru contains the most clay licks in the Amazon. These are fantastic places to see colorful macaw parrots gathered at the clay. You can also find beautiful oxbow lakes, which are sometimes home to giant river otters.

The Tambopata National Reserve covers around 274,690 hectares of lowland Amazon Rainforest. This protects the lower section of the Tambopata River following its descent from Lake Titicaca down the Andes.

The reserve contains some fantastic animals and plants. These include the tall emergent trees of Brazil nuts, mahogany, and cedar.

Spot various toucans, macaws and other parrots flying over the forest. These are best seen at clay licks and canopy towers, which you can find at certain Tambopata Rainforest lodges .

The lodges in the Tambopata rainforest provide some fantastic trails, lakes and clay licks. And you can find a variety of rainforest animals. Enjoy seeing herds of peccary, several different monkeys and giant river otters. You even have a chance of spotting jaguar from deep lodges. Our favorite Tambopata lodge is the Tambopata Research Center . This lodge even offers a 20% chance of spotting wild jaguar.

Positioned in the middle of the wildlife-rich Tambopata National Reserve, near one of the largest macaw clay licks in the ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, selection of guided tours, transfers from and to Puerto Maldonado airport. | 4, 5, 6 days+

For another favorite animal to find, a great lodge for seeing giant river otters is the community-owned Posada Amazonas Lodge . This is located in connected rainforest next to the reserve.

The Posada Amazonas Lodge

We went to Posada Amazona in August and we were not expecting this place. This is a beautiful lodge, incredible ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, selection of guided tours, transfers from and to Puerto Maldonado airport. | 3, 4, 5 days+

To give an example of the Tambopata Reserve and surrounding rainforest, here’s a table to show the chances of seeing different Amazon Rainforest animals.

As recommended lodges to provide examples, the table contains information for:

The Manu National Park, Peru

The Manu National Park covers an impressive 1.5 million hectares. The area protects the entirety of the Manu River. Manu continues to set records for wildlife richness. This is not only because of its large area, but also because it includes lowland rainforest and forest on the Andes.

Although not permitted in the national park itself, visitors can visit connected rainforest. This is the rainforest surrounding the park known as the Reserved Zone. Enjoy some large macaw clay licks where hundreds of colorful macaw gather at the clay. You can also see a beautiful lake with giant river otters and different monkeys.

The Anavilhanas National Park, Brazil

The Anavilhanas Reserve is found in Brazil’s central Amazon Rainforest. This is a section of flooded Amazon forest. A fantastic region in its own right, this reserve is part of the UNESCO listed Central Amazon Ecological Corridor. This is the largest section of protected Amazon Rainforest. It was formed by joining different reserves and national parks together.

The Anavilhanas National Park section covers 350,470 hectares of mostly flooded rainforest. And the main feature iconic to the area are the 400 different islands.

With the large amount of water, the reserve is home to a high number of electric fish and other aquatic animals. The surrounding forest is then home to iconic and rarely seen wildlife, such as jaguar, river otters and giant anteaters.

To visit the Anavilhanas National Park and surrounding rainforest, you can enjoy the Tucano Expedition Cruise . Styled as a steam boat, enjoy getting deeper into the rainforest than other vessels. You will then enjoy expertly guided forest expeditions.

The Cristalino Reserve, Brazil

A smaller protected area than the other on the list, the Cristalino Reserve is no less fascinating to visit in terms of wildlife. Within the reserve, you can find many animals. Find several different monkeys, fascinating reptiles and amphibians, and hundreds of birds. Many of the species here are found nowhere else.

The reserve is at the meeting of the Amazon Rainforest and the Pantanal Wetlands. Because of this, it has created some fascinating areas to see a range of species. From the Cristalino lodge in the reserve, explore the forest to see some of the iconic Amazonian animals and plants.

The Cristalino Reserve is relatively small at 11,400 hectares. However, it is connected to the neighboring 184,900 hectare Cristalino State Park as well as other protected areas. Many different reserves, national parks and conservation forests are connected. In total, they cover over 2 million hectares of Amazon Rainforest.

You can see several different monkeys, peccary and giant river otters. The big cats of puma and jaguar are also found within the reserve. In addition to the fantastic mammals, 586 bird species can be seen. This represents 50% of all the birds in Brazil. Because of this, the reserve is a much-loved destination for birdwatchers.

Amazon Rainforest Tours

To enjoy the Amazon Rainforest, you can stay at a variety of fantastic rainforest lodges. These offer guided excursions into Amazonia to find the wildlife. You can also choose a river cruise. Luxury cruises offer a little more comfort as you’re transported deep into the rainforest. You will will then enjoy guided skiff expeditions looking for rainforest wildlife.

We will go over some of the top recommendations to experience the Amazon.

Amazon Rainforest Lodges

Here is our selection of recommended Amazon Rainforest lodges. The deeper rainforest lodges for the best wildlife experiences will be mentioned first. All include accommodation, guided tours, meals and transfers from the nearest jungle town or city.

The Tambopata Research Center, Peru

The Tambopata Research Center is in the middle of the wildlife-rich Tambopata Reserve. This is in southern Peru and accessed from Puerto Maldonado.

Because this is a deep Amazon Rainforest lodge, the surrounding rainforest is at carrying capacity for wildlife. This means you have a higher chance of spotting abundant, rare and iconic animals. For example, 20% of guests to the Tambopata Research Center are lucky enough to see wild jaguar.

Enjoy guided expeditions in the reserve to find many animals and plants. You will find a variety of monkeys. These include capuchins, squirrel monkeys, marmosets, howler monkeys and even spider monkeys. These are the largest species in Amazonia and rarely seen at other lodges.

The Tambopata Research Center is located near a large macaw clay lick. This is a great area to watch hundreds of colorful macaw parrots. You will also explore different rainforest habitats home to their own communities of animals and plants.

The Tambopata Research Center offers tours of 4 days or more in the Amazon Rainforest. Remember that the longer you spend in the rainforest, the more animals and plants you will see.

The Tahuayo Lodge, Peru

The Tahuayo Lodge is deep in the rainforest. You can find the lodge about 150 km from Iquitos city in north Peru’s Amazon. The lodge is located in the fantastic Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve. And it’s a great section of Amazonia to find a variety of different monkeys and other wildlife.

From the Tahuayo Lodge, head out on a privately guided and custom Amazon tour. You will find many of the different monkeys. These include howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, capuchins, titi monkeys and pygmy marmosets. You will also find many of the reserve’s 600 different birds. This makes it a great place to explore for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

On tours of 6 days or more at the Tahuayo Lodge, you will also visit the Tahuayo River Amazon Research Center (ARC). The ARC is located in even more pristine rainforest. Surrounding the ARC is a 1,000 acre primate research grid. This grid is perfect for watching different animals displaying more normal behavior. Animals have become more accustomed to researchers and don’t feel threatened when observed.

From the lodge, you will also enjoy canoeing and zipping across the largest canopy zipline system in Amazonia. You can even choose to camp for one or two nights in the jungle.

Because this is privately guided tour with a custom itinerary, your tour is personalized to your preferences. You can choose a pace and activities suited to your personality and interests. Enjoy wildlife watching, relaxation, adventure or photography.

The Tahuayo Lodge is best experienced on tours of 6 days or more.

The Sacha Lodge, Ecuador

The Sacha Lodge in Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest is a great place for nature lovers.

One of the main features of this particular lodge is the large canopy walkway. This stretches 940-feet (275-meters) through the rainforest. Reaching 94 feet (30 meters) above the ground, this is a fantastic place for birdwatching.

Click the video above to see the walkway and for more information.

There are some fascinating species to see. Over 587 different birds have been spotted from the lodge. To put into perspective, this represents 37% of all the birds in Ecuador.

In addition to the birdlife, enjoy guided expeditions in the surrounding rainforest. See many different primates, reptiles, colorful butterflies and fascinating caiman crocodilians.

The Sacha Lodge includes single, double and triple accommodation. Rooms feature private bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets. The rooms are carefully screened to help keep you comfortable in the rainforest.

Meals are served in the dining room as a buffet service and there are three meals each day. At least one of your evenings will be a BBQ in the outdoor dining area. The bar then offers a range of drinks, so you can relax with a drink after your excursions.

The Sacha Lodge is best explored on tours of 4 or 5 days. Click the tour bubble below to check availability direct with the Sacha Lodge.

The Sacha Lodge

Located in a 5000 acre private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides a safe and comfortable base for you and your ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, selection of guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport. | 4, 5 days+

La Selva Lodge, Ecuador • Luxury

La Selva Lodge is a fantastic rainforest lodge. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a little more comfort in the Amazon Rainforest.

Enjoy guided rainforest excursions in connected rainforest to Yasuni National Park. You will find a wide diversity of Amazon Rainforest animals and plants.

Enjoy the lodge’s tall canopy tower, visit the Yasuni Clay Lick and canoe the nearby Garzacocha Lagoon.

You will also explore the different rainforest trails. The trails are designed to take you past the most fascinating rainforest attractions. Enjoy trails for tall strangler figs and emergent trees. See some of the oldest primary forest and the best areas for wildlife. A favorite are the small pygmy marmosets, which seem to enjoy watching you as much as you watching them.

While exploring the trails, you will be looking for the many rainforest inhabitants. Your guide will help you find different monkeys, birds, reptiles and amphibian. You will also see and learn more about the beautiful plants that surround you.

La Selva Lodge is also a rainforest spa. And this means you can enjoy a choice of relaxation treatments and massages on your stay. This is the perfect way to relax after exploring the Amazon Rainforest. The lodge then provides very comfortable suites, a restaurant serving delicious cuisine and a bar to enjoy a cocktail. There are also excellent viewing areas.

La Selva Lodge is best enjoyed on tours of 4 days or more.

La Selva Lodge

I wanted to let you know that we had an amazing experience at Le Selva! The service, accommodations, guides, tours, ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, guided tours, transfers from and to Coca airport. | 4, 5 days+

The Refugio Amazonas Lodge, Puerto Maldonado, Peru

The Refugio Amazonas Lodge is located in the buffer zone of Tambopata National Reserve.

At the lodge, you can enjoy a tall canopy tower to spot toucans and parrots over the rainforest. Explore the rainforest on guided expeditions to find a diversity of wildlife. You will see colorful birds, several different monkeys and other Amazon wildlife. Recently, guests at the Refugio Amazonas have been lucky to see the famous harpy eagles. The eagles nest in the surrounding forest.

You can also visit a small parrot clay lick and a small mammal clay lick. This means you can see some fascinating wildlife. In addition, you can visit the large Chuncho clay lick. This is a fantastic place for you to spot hundreds of colorful macaws visiting the clay.

You can choose from different activities. These include jungle mountain biking, night walks, wildlife walks and lake visits. There are also science and community activities.

The Refugio Amazonas Lodge also offers a spa for a range of relaxation and aromatherapy treatments. After your tours, you can relax with a massage listening to the sounds of Amazonia.

The Refugio Amazonas is a great choice for families. The lodge is unique for Amazon lodges as it offers a children’s trail. The trail is specifically designed to teach young children about the Amazon Rainforest in a relatable way.

The Refugio Amazonas Lodge

The best end to a fantastic intrepid trip in Peru…!! Wish we had of spent more time there… Staff were ...

The Amazon Villa, Peru • Luxury

The Amazon Villa provides an exclusive stay at a very comfortable rainforest bungalow. The villa is found in the buffer zone of Tambopata National Reserve.

You will be assigned a private guide to explore the surrounding rainforest. Visit the large Chuncho clay lick to see hundreds of macaws gathered at the clay. You will also visit some smaller clay licks to see different animals.

Explore the rainforest to find colorful birds and several different monkeys. These include capuchins, squirrel monkeys, titi monkeys and howler monkeys.

The Amazon Villa is equipped with comfortable amenities. These include a hot water bath, Wifi internet and a television to watch nature documentaries. You also have electricity in the rainforest, a refrigerator and microwave. There is also a place for your laptop to catch up on work and view your photos.

From the Amazon Villa, you can also enjoy a choice of jungle activities. These include jungle mountain biking, wildlife walks, night walks and visiting a jungle farm.

You can also climb a tall canopy tower to look out over the Tambopata rainforest. Spot colorful toucans, parrots and even mixed species flocks. You can also choose from a number of options exclusive to this particular lodge.

The Amazon Villa is best enjoyed on tours of 3 days or more.

Explore the Amazon Rainforest in comfort on a premium experience at the Tambopata Amazon Villa. The Amazon Villa is a ...

The Posada Amazonas Lodge, Puerto Maldonado, Peru

The Posada Amazonas Lodge is a community-owned rainforest lodge. And it is positioned in the forest surrounding Puerto Maldonado, southern Peru.

From the Posada Amazonas Lodge, enjoy a fantastic Amazon Rainforest tour. You will see a wide diversity of Amazonian animals and plants.

Explore the nearby oxbow lake to find giant river otters. See a small parrot clay lick. And you can also climb a tall canopy tower to spot parrots, toucans and mixed species flocks. You will also explore the rainforest find different monkeys and colorful birds.

From the Posada Amazonas Lodge, you can choose from a range of activities. These include wildlife walks, jungle mountain biking, visiting a jungle farm and more.

At the lodge itself, you can choose from different suites and comfort levels. The Posada Amazonas also offers a small spa where you can enjoy a massage and relaxation treatment surrounded by rainforest.

Amazon River Cruises

Another way to experience the Amazon Rainforest is on an Amazon River cruise.

Aboard the following cruises, you will head down tributaries of the Amazon River and into incredible protected areas. Led by expert guides, enjoy skiff expeditions and forest walks. Your guide will help you find a great many animals and plants. You will also enjoy beautiful scenery in some of the most untouched areas of rainforest.

The Delfin I Cruise, Peru

The Delfin I offers the most exclusive luxury cruise on the Amazon River. With only 4 oversized suites, the Delfin I is more akin to a floating luxury boutique hotel than a cruise vessel.

From the Delfin I, enjoy fantastic expeditions into the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. You will find some incredible sights. See different types of curious monkeys, playful pink river dolphins and hundreds of colorful birds. You will explore the forest on guided expeditions in modern skiffs. These are motorized boats that allow you to get deeper into the rainforest.

Aboard the vessel itself, you can enjoy the Delfin I facilities. Two of the four oversized suites have their own private whirlpool. Here, you can cool off from the tropical climate with a drink from the cruise bar. Your bed then offers supreme comfort. Enjoy watching the rainforest pass your floor-to-ceiling glass windows. This is a great place to relax as you spot toucans, parrots, and kingfishers from the comfort of your suite.

The Delfin I offers 3 night and 4 night cruises from Iquitos, Peru.

The Delfin II Cruise, Peru

The Delfin II Cruise is a luxury cruise from Iquitos in northern Peru.

Aboard the Delfin II, enjoy luxury suites, first-class service and gourmet cuisine. Your meals are then accompanied with a selection of fine wines.

You will then explore the rainforest with some of the best naturalist guides in the Amazon.

This means you won’t simply be confined to your luxury suite and facilities. Although, you’re more than welcome to simply relax on some days if you choose. Instead, you will head out each day on guided skiff expeditions.

You will head out from the main vessel to explore the incredible Pacaya Samiria Reserve. You will be scouting for the incredible diversity of Amazonian animals and plants.

The Pacaya Samiria scenery can also be quite breathtaking.

This vast flooded forest is known as the forest of mirrors because of its reflective beauty.

On Delfin II expeditions, enjoy find a variety of Amazon Rainforest animals and plants. See delicate orchids and bromeliads clinging to the tall rainforest trees. Spot the several different monkeys moving through the canopy. You can even watch pink river dolphins playing in the water.

The monkey are one of the favorite sights in the Amazon. From the Delfin II, you can see howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, capuchins, titi monkeys and pygmy marmosets. As well as the monkeys, enjoy spotting two species of sloth, tree-living anteaters, and many frogs and lizards.

In addition to day excursions, you will head out at night to spotlight for nocturnal wildlife. You may see different caiman, various nocturnal birds and more.

The Delfin II offers 3 night and 4 night cruises from Iquitos, Peru.

The Delfin III, Peru

The Delfin III is the larger sister vessel of the Delfin I and Delfin II.

From Iquitos in northern Peru, the cruise offers one of the most affordable luxury vessels on the Amazon River. There are different suite options to choose from depending on your preferences.

From the Delfin III, you will explore the rainforest of the Pacaya Samiria and Tahuayo Reserve. Your itinerary will depend on how many days you have available for the cruise.

Enjoy guided expeditions to see fantastic rainforest animals and plants. See bromeliads, orchids and many different monkeys. You can also see hundreds of colorful birds, including parrots, toucans, cotingers and tanagers. Find sloths, colorful frogs and fascinating reptiles.

The Delfin III offers cruise itineraries of 3 and 6 nights from Iquitos, Peru.

The Tucano Expedition Cruise, Brazil

The Tucano Expeditions Cruises travels deep into the Amazon of the Rio Negro. You will embark and disembark the vessel from Manaus, Brazil.

The Rio Negro is the Amazon’s largest tributary and is home to a fantastic section of tropical wilderness.

The Tucano vessel is styled as a traditional 19th Century steamship. And you will journey into areas of Amazonia unreachable by most other vessels.

Enjoy different expeditions into the rainforest led by some exceptional rainforest guides. Head out aboard skiff expeditions, forest walks and even kayaking tours.

The Tucano offers nine comfortable cabins. Most of these have individual beds and some contain above and below bunk beds. All of the cabins have private bathrooms with hot water shower, toilet and a sink.

There are 76 windows throughout the vessel to see the forest and each one can open and close to allow ventilation.

All the cabins and the salon are then air conditioned to keep you comfortable on your cruise. The walls of the suites and salon are solid wood with raised and varnished paneling.

The Tucano offers cruises of 4 and 6 nights from Manaus, Brazil.

The Tucano Amazon Cruise

Aboard the Tucano Amazon Cruise, you will explore the Amazon Rainforest from Manaus. And you will travel down the magnificent ...

Recommended Rainforest Lodges – Summary

Here is our summary of recommended rainforest lodges to experience the Amazon Rainforest.

Recommended Rainforest Cruises – Summary

Here is our summary of recommended rainforest cruises to experience the Amazon Rainforest.

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Everything you need to know about visiting the Amazon

Spanning a mind-blowing 5.5 million square kilometres, the Amazon is the largest rain forest on the face of the Earth.

This untamed wilderness is home to as many as 40,000 species of plant, several thousand species of birds, over four hundred mammals and 2.5 million different insects.

That handful of numbers alone is probably enough to make you feel overwhelmed! To help ease your mind, I’ve compiled all the information you need so that you can start planning your Amazon trip today.

The best time to go

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In truth, the Amazon jungle can be explored all year round. Even in spite of its enormity, the weather conditions here don’t really vary between seasons – expect it to be warm, rainy and humid.

January to June marks the wet season, with temperatures sitting between 23 and 30ºC (that’s 73 to 86ºF). Throughout this half of the year, daily showers are common and can sometimes be heavy. Increased rainfall makes the rain forest feel cooler and the river levels higher. This makes accessing the river easier and swimming more plausible. It’s also worth mentioning that the greater humidity means there are more mosquitos about.

The second half of the year, July to December, marks the dry season. During this time temperatures average around 26 to 40ºC (or 78 to 104ºF) and although there’s less rain, heavy showers are still not unheard of. Decreased rainfall makes jungle feel drier and the river levels lower. This makes exploring on foot easier and offers a great opportunity to spot caimans as they compete for shorter food supplies.

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Getting there

Photo captured by Eduardo Mora

The vast rainforest spans nine different South American countries including Peru , Colombia , Ecuador and Bolivia – although it’s most prominent in Brazil .

Planning to visit the Peruvian Amazon? Flights can be arranged into Iquitos, Puerto Maldonado from Cusco. Hoping to experience the Brazilian Amazon? Flying into Manaus in the north is your best option. If it’s the Ecuadorian Amazon you’re after, then you can take a bus from Quito into Tena City (five hours) where you can hop in a pickup truck. Or, if you’re eager to explore the Bolivian Amazon, fly from La Paz to Rurrenabaque (around 45 minutes) and then ride a motor-boat upriver to Madidi.

Joining a short, escorted, group tour is an easy way to escape the trouble of organisation!

Intrepid trips to the Amazon:

• 4-day Peru Amazon
• 4-day Ecuador Amazon Jungle
• 12-day Inca Trail & Amazon

What you can see

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The Amazon Rainforest houses 10% of the planet’s known species, so there’s plenty for wildlife enthusiasts to get excited about. Hiding high in the canopy you might spot slow-moving sloths and all manner of monkeys including howler, spider, tamarin, capuchin and squirrel – to name but a few. Bring along your binoculars too for a closer look at brightly-billed toucans and scarlet macaws.

Lurking on the rainforest floor and on the leaves of lower lying plants you might see sinister-looking snakes such as green anacondas, boa constrictors and eyelash vipers. Also, look out for tiny poisonous dart frogs and cleverly camouflaged insects like the leaf-mimic katydid and moss-mimic stick insect.

Living on the river banks you might find capybara families playing, caimans looking for their next meal and tapirs nibbling on low-hanging branches. Whilst in its murky waters, you may see pink river dolphins coming up for air and giant otters tucking into their fish suppers.

LOVE WILDLIFE? CHECK OUT INTREPID TRAVEL’S FULL RANGE OF ANIMAL-FILLED TOURS

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If you’re more of a plant person, the Amazon offers up lots for green-fingered explorers too. Some of the most fascinating and unusual species include giant water lilies (or Victoria Amazonica), spaghetti passion flowers and monkey brush vines. It’s a brilliant destination for tree lovers too. You won’t be able to walk through the jungle without coming across the humungous roots of the kapok tree. These giants can reach over 60 metres in height!

And, for the foodies amongst us, you’ll also be able to spot the plants that some of our favourite foodstuffs come from including coffee, cacao and bananas.

Where you’ll stay

Photo captured by Barbara Glanz

The most prominent style of accommodation you’ll come across in the Amazon is jungle lodges, regardless of which section you’re visiting. And whilst you can get some incredibly luxury or extremely basic ones, most sit around the 3-star mark. In these lodges, you’ll usually stay in a comfortable twin share or double cabin with an ensuite bathroom. Rooms will be kitted out with mosquito nets and a fan to keep you cool and protected at night.

READ MORE: 5 AMAZON LODGE PHOTOS THAT WILL HAVE YOU PACKING YOUR BAGS IMMEDIATELY

Activities on offer

Photo captured by Stephen Parry

During your time in the Amazon, the days will be filled by jungle walks and river cruises. These will likely happen at varying times each day to give you an insight into how your surroundings can change. On some nights you’ll have the option to take part in an after-dark jungle walk, offering you the opportunity to spot some nocturnal animals. But if you’re not keen, no worries, you can choose to simply kick back in a hammock. Bear in mind that the day’s schedule can change depending on the weather. Other activities that are sometimes available include rafting, canoeing and swimming.

BOOK NOW: CHOOSE FROM 30+ INTREPID TRAVEL ITINERARIES FEATURING THE AMAZON

Packing essentials

Aside from lightweight, waterproof and moisture-wicking clothing, here are a few more items to pop on your packing list:

• A head torch for night walks through the jungle.
• A pair of binoculars so you can get a closer look at the amazing Amazonian animals.
• Mosquito spray regardless of whether you’re travelling in the wet or dry season.
• Sensible walking shoes, although rubber boots will be provided in most cases.
• A hat to protect your head from the sun when cruising down the river.
• High factor sun cream as you don’t want sunburn putting a downer on your experience.
• A camera as you’ll be presented with an abundance of photo opportunities.

READ MORE: 10 EASY WAYS TO BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER

5 tips for exploring the Amazon responsibly

RPBaiao/Shutterstock

1. Adopt a ‘take in, take back out approach’ with your rubbish when exploring the jungle.

2. Keep a respectful distance from the local wildlife, particularly those species that are poisonous.

3. Choose a lodge that invests money back into the local community.

4. Carry a reusable water bottle so that you’re able to refill it from the larger water bottles at the lodge.

5. Listen to your guide and follow the routes they lay out for you.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

What to do in the Amazon Rainforest?

• Enjoy a Junge walk through the world’s biggest Rainforest, the amazon rainforest, discovering the unique and vibrant wildlife, as well as the abundance of amazing plant species on offer.
•  Kayak down the Amazon River, exploring the remote, hard to reach areas. Spot the amazing marine life as you navigate down the river and through the dense jungle.
• Get up high and amongst the 70% of the Amazon wildlife which live in the canopy. The Canopy bridge walk is a fantastic way to explore the jungle and must for your Amazon trip.

I'm a firm believer in the saying: "you'll always regret what you didn't do, not what you did". So, even after people told me I'd never get a job again if I left London to travel, I did it anyway. 29 countries later, and it will always be one of the best decisions I've ever made (corny maybe, but true). Life's short, the time to get out there and see the world is now!

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Amazon Rainforest Travel Guide

The definitive Amazon Rainforest travel guide with tips on how to visit, expert Amazon River cruise advice, and ideas for planning a trip to the Amazon Rainforest for the most rewarding of Amazon vacations .

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The Amazon is the explorer's dream from ancient times to the present day... and it can be your dream too... the dream of visiting a continent sized wilderness rainforest where the beasts of legend still roam and where the kingdom of exotic plants reigns supreme ... You would like to go, but how to choose?

What really counts is the rainforest experience . Cruises on the Motor Yacht Tucano are different. Ours are the only true expedition cruises: we have very small groups, deeply skilled naturalist guides, many thoughtful daily activities, and we explore deep into a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Everyone on our cruises, our guides, mariners, and our travelers, are part of a team of exploration. Our cruises are true expeditions, true journeys of discovery .... and also journeys of the imagination.

So how to choose?

Take a look at the pages below. Start with what matters most, the Tucano Experience . And only afterwards think about accommodations, meals, and schedules and all that. Or just give us a call. We'd be happy to talk to you about our passion of the last 30 years -- exploration in the Amazon.

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We will help you plan a cruise that is comfortable, interesting, fun, meaningful, and most of all, authentic. After decades of exploration it is still our passion to share with our fellow adventurers the beautiful and bizarre nature of the greatest wilderness on earth. Come with us!

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Travel in the Amazon Rainforest: The Why and the How

Best in the west: why the amazon rainforest matters.

There was a time in the 1990’s when it seemed that “save the rainforest” was the sort of calling-card motto for “wacky” environmentalists and hippies. Travel in the Amazon Rainforest has increased since then, and for good reason: it is one of the most complex, unique, and important places on the planet. As our focus as a global community shifts away from “saving the rainforests” and “saving the whales” to broader, more inclusive forms of action, perhaps it bears exploring just why the Amazon Rainforest is such an important piece of the puzzle, and how to travel there yourself to see it with your own eyes.

Hiking through the Amazon Rainforest

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The Amazon Rainforest (Or Amazonia, which I think is way “cooler”) is just shy of 3 million square miles of “moist, broadleaf forest”, and falls within the nations of Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Columbia, and others. So let’s attempt to visualize this, which I assure you, is not easy. The Amazon Rainforest is approximately 2/3rds the size of the US. Over half of the world’s rainforests are represented by the Amazon Rainforest. Within these limits are an estimated 400 billion trees. Studies have attempted to speculate what total of the world’s tree-count that represents, but findings vary. Regardless, it is obviously a staggering percentage of our trees on Earth. On top of this, the Amazon Rainforest accounts for only 7% of the land-mass on earth, yet contains one-in-ten known species on Earth. So basically, the Amazon Rainforest is like a huge, super-important party of all living creatures. It doesn’t take long to see why this place would be vital to the planet. In the “web” of life, where all species are interdependent, having 50% of them crammed into one place makes for a very special place.

Other interesting facts about the Amazon Rainforest:

• The Amazon Rainforest is often referred to as “the lungs of the Earth” because it produces approximately 20% of the world’s oxygen, vital for sustaining life on our planet.
• This vast ecosystem is home to numerous indigenous tribes, some of which have had little to no contact with the outside world, preserving ancient cultures and traditions.
• The Amazon River, flowing through the heart of the rainforest, is the largest river by discharge volume in the world, contributing significantly to the region’s biodiversity and serving as a lifeline for countless species.
• Despite its immense ecological importance, the Amazon Rainforest faces significant threats from deforestation, primarily driven by agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development, posing a grave risk to its biodiversity and global climate stability.

A little interested in traveling to the Amazon Rainforest is like ?

How 400 Billion Trees Are Essential for Climate, Weather, and Air Quality

Those nearly 400 billion trees are doing much more than hanging out and looking nice. Trees do us some favors that we literally cannot do without. In addition to affecting climate, the Amazon Rainforest affects weather, too. Through evapotranspiration, trees dispel water from the soil through their leaves and into the air. This, in turn, lowers the temperature of the air, which can seriously affect air pressure, wind, and so on. In addition, trees filter particles and carbon from the air, so these 400 billion trees that are sequestering emissions from our cities are unbelievably important.

Walkways in Ecuador

But let’s talk about something that isn’t abstract: The Amazon Rainforest is also incredibly beautiful and is an amazing place to visit. On top of the unending (and still largely unknown) variety of life in the Amazon, there are some beautiful people who make it their home, as well. The Achuar, a tribe of people who have lived in the Amazon for thousands of years, still live there, and very little has changed in their lifestyle. They still sustain themselves on the land and still interpret their dreams as a part of their social interaction. To help support themselves, they built a beautiful lodge in the jungle for guests to stay in.

Even more interested in taking a trip to the world’s largest rainforest ?

Getting into the Rainforest

So the trick, of course, if figuring out how to visit such a place without injuring it. Research is obviously paramount. Not all operators that take guests into the amazon are going to be equally conscious of preserving the balance of the ecosystem or respecting traditional cultures, so going with a naturalist who understands these complexities is important. Obviously, the best course of action is to visit the Amazon Rainforest as an observer. Interacting can be great, as long as it is on the terms of the inhabitants.

As one of the most important ecosystems on the planet, there are few places more eye-opening to visit. For the traveller who embarks on such a journey, a wild world is the prize.

Now, are you really interested in taking a vacation to the Amazon ?

Read about the Amazon Rainforest’s wildlife and its plenty of Weirdness showcases the extraordinary diversity of creatures inhabiting this vibrant ecosystem. From bizarre insects to elusive mammals, each species contributes to the rich tapestry of life in the world’s largest tropical rainforest.

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How to explore the Amazon from Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador

Never thought of visiting the Amazon Rainforest ? Picture this: a massive forest that matches the size of 46 U.S. states. Three million species of wildlife. A unique shade of bright green that can’t be seen anywhere else. There’s nowhere like The Amazon in the world, which makes it a top spot in every nature lover’s Dream Trip list—and worth a spot on yours, too.

Set across 9 South American countries from Brazil to Peru , The Amazon is the world’s largest and most biodiverse tropical rainforest, A.K.A. the perfect place for off-the-grid adventures of a lifetime. If you want to experience nature’s crown jewel at least once, here are the three main ways you can (safely!) explore the Amazon rainforest. Plus, we’ve found nifty tips from travelers that’ll help you make the most out of your trip.

This guide features activities in Brazil , Peru , and Ecuador —the best jump-off points for Amazon rainforest trips.

1. Set off on an epic Amazon river cruise

The Amazon River flows through the entire rainforest, so it’s no surprise that most deep Amazon excursions are only possible by boat. Cruises are one of the most popular ways to explore the rainforest’s diverse terrain in style and comfort.

Operating year-round, boat tours tweak itineraries to match the season—so you’ll always get a worthwhile experience with plenty of photo ops and wildlife encounters (try spotting the elusive Amazon pink river dolphin!).

You’ve got two choices: go during the high-water season from January to June when most of the jungle is underwater and accessible by boat, or go during the low-water season from July to December for fishing and spotting wildlife on sandy shores.

Recommended destination: Manaus, Brazil

Located in the heart of the rainforest, Manaus is known as the gateway to The Amazon. Cruises here are longer and go further into the Lower Amazon River, making it every avid explorer’s dream expedition. Most tours will cover visits to Indigenous villages too.

Don't miss the Meeting of the Waters , where the black-tea waters of the Rio Negro and the sandy-shaded waters of the Amazon River run side-by-side.

Recommended tours and activities

2. Explore national parks and wildlife reserves

The Amazon is home to 30% of the world’s species—including endangered caimans, the elusive jaguar, and various native monkey species like the pied tamarins. This impressive biodiversity has brought mountaineers, photographers, and wildlife spotters all over the world in search of their next great adventure.

Look no further than the national parks and wildlife reserves in Ecuador —they’re smaller in size compared to the rest of the sprawling continental giants in Brazil and Argentina , but make up the most biodiverse area of The Amazon. Wildlife lovers, onward.

Recommended destination: Napo, Ecuador

Ecuador ’s national parks feature dramatic mountainous landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a dizzying array of flora and fauna. Imagine a wild wonderland with swinging spider monkeys, sky-high trees, and choruses of colorful toucans.

There are 11 national parks and 25 wildlife reserves that cover every part of Ecuador. Short on time? Travel along the Napo River and add the biggest rainforest preserves— Yasuni National Park and Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve —to your Amazon itinerary.

3. Go glamping in a luxe jungle lodge

Looking for an immersive all-day jungle experience? Go glamping at a jungle lodge in Peru . There are a bunch of unique activities you will only experience from staying in the forest, from waking up to distant sounds of Amazonian wildlife to serene stargazing in pitch darkness. Look out for lodges featuring macaw clay licks and canopy viewing towers that provide great photo ops.

Most places offer daily excursions including guided treks, night safaris, canoe outings as well as visits to Indigenous villages. Design your own jungle adventure and get acquainted with The Amazon however you’d like.

Recommended destination: Madre de Dios, Peru

Madre de Dios represents 15% of the Peruvian Amazon and is the capital of biodiversity in Peru. Heavenly jungle lodges are often found in or near Tambopata National Reserve —don’t forget to stop by Lake Sandoval , a gorgeous oxbow lake home to a variety of wildlife.

When to visit the Amazon rainforest

High-water season: January to June

Best for: Bird-watching, canoe trips, river cruises

The main draw of the wet season is the dramatic high-water panorama, where river levels rise up to 3 stories high to immerse most of the jungle floor.

Most Amazon rivers, creeks, and lakes become navigable during this period, making it a prime season for river cruises, boat trips, and kayaking adventures. Find yourself closer to the canopies, making it easier to spot birds, monkeys, and other creatures that make the treetops their home.

You’ll experience cooler and rainier weather around the forest, with average temperatures dipping to around 86°F.

Low-water season: July to December

Best for: Wildlife-spotting, fishing, jungle treks

Good news, hikers: during dry season, water levels drop to reveal sandy shores and trekking trails that were previously inaccessible—making deep jungle explorations on foot (finally!) possible.

The receding waterfront makes it easier to spot nesting caimans, snakes, and lizards by Amazon shores, plus fishing for piranhas becomes much easier by boat. You’ll even get the chance to watch migratory flocks in flight, something you’ll miss entirely during the wet season.

Expect less rainfall (though heavy showers can still happen!) and an average temperature of 98°F, with mosquitos less likely to bother you.

Tips on preparing for your Amazon rainforest trip

1. Plan. In. Advance.

Only a limited number of tour operators are authorized to conduct Amazon tours, which means they’ve got limited slots for peak seasons. Once you decide between high-water and dry season, book your tour early to secure your spot.

2. Support local guides

Make sure you pick tours from local tourism companies; it’s a great way to support the community sustainably. Local guides are expert naturalists who know best how to navigate the jungle and are more than happy to share everything they know about this unique ecosystem with you.

3. Choose responsible tours

Smaller group tours leave a smaller environmental footprint. Go with a trained guide who'll ensure your group sticks to good practices like staying on designated walking paths and mindful excursions that don’t disturb the wildlife.

4. Leave no trace behind

Dispose of any waste properly and adopt a ‘take in, take out’ approach when exploring. Commit to bringing a portable trash bag and keep it with you throughout the journey.

5. Give back to The Amazon

The rainforest is vital to the Earth’s health and is one of the last remaining homes for wildlife, Indigenous tribes, and local communities. After your trip, give back to reputable charities like the Rainforest Trust and Amazon Watch that are dedicated to Amazon conservation efforts.

6. Bring binoculars

Travelers suggest investing in a pair of binoculars to maximize your wildlife viewing, especially if you’re aboard a cruise boat. Many animals in The Amazon are tree-dwellers and can be frequently spotted frolicking high up in their canopy homes.

7. Prepare for mosquitos

The Amazon’s warm, humid nature makes it a hotspot for mosquitos. Pack long-sleeved, light-colored clothes, and mosquito repellent and don’t forget to get your malaria shots in advance. When you do get bitten, calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream will help to ease the itch.

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Save the Amazon Rainforest

Amazon Rainforest Travel

The Amazon rainforest is huge, and you can enter from several different countries. The easiest countries to enter from are Ecuador and Brazil. To enter from Ecuador , take an international airline to Quito . From Quito travel to the Amazon rainforest, by bus, small plane or private guide. Quito is a unique city, rich in history which should be explored if time permits. To enter from Brazil , you can easily find flights from all over the world to Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro . If you have time spend a few days in those cities if you want, especially Rio which is famous for its carnival parade in February. From Sao Paulo or Rio you can get another flight to the Amazon cities, you can choose among many state capital cities like Manaus , Belem , Macapa, Boa Vista , Porto Velho or Rio Branco . Manuas and Belem have the most infrastructures for tourists.

In the Amazon rainforest you can travel in small airplanes (very nice to get an aerial view) between the smaller cities. But on the ground level there is just one way to travel in the Amazon rainforest, which is by boat. The Amazon rainforest is full of rivers, from the smallest one to the biggest one on the planet. The Amazon River is responsible for 25% of the fresh water that goes into the oceans. The Amazon River is so big that in some places you can’t see the other side of the river. Certain areas seem just like an ocean since you have white sand beaches and waves! In some places the rivers edges are 30 miles from each other.

The size of the boats depends on how far you are going. For smaller day-trip travel the usual boat is called “Voadeira” (the best translation it would be “Flyer Boat”) which are small aluminum boats for just a dozen people with stern nautical engines, they are very common, fast and you can go in most places in a voadeira boat.

If you are going to make a longer trip you will use wooden boats that vary in size but sometimes can carry hundreds of passengers. In these boats you can pay for a cabin (on some of the better boats air conditioning is offered, this will make your trip more pleasant through the Amazon rainforest). If you can’t or don’t want to pay for the cabin, you will travel the way the local do, with nets! Yes, for the common Amazon man and woman when they travel for long distances they sleep in nets, they are very used to it since a net is one of the most common things in the region. If you are adventurous enough and like to travel like the local population, this is your way and it’s much cheaper (although the cabin is not expensive).

Longer trips are a very nice way to get to know the region. You can go from Manaus to Santarem (a medium size city) or from Belem to Santarem by boat. These boats have regular schedules and it’s safe. You can also go from Belem to Manaus (and vice-versa ) but then you would spend a week in a boat, to Santarem it will be only a few days and there you have an airport with direct flights to the Amazon region capitals or other cities in Brazil like Brasilia ( capital of the country) or even Rio de Janeiro . On the largest boats you can eat and take small foot tours in the small villages they stop by on the way up the river.

Along with the big boats and the voadeiras, canoes are very common and are the local population’s most important way of transport. Canoes can be used for small trips or to go deep in small rivers. These canoes are hand made by Indians, or local individuals that learn from Indians, using Amazon rainforest wood and although they were originally conceived to be propelled by paddles, nowadays people use small engine propellers. Going deep in a small river branch in a paddle canoe is an incredible experience. You are almost completely covered with the rain forest canopy and you can feel and hear the Amazon rainforest in all its greatness.

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The Brazilian Amazon. The very words conjure up the image of an immense network of wild vegetation, waterways and lakes. From the air, this jungle looks impenetrable, and houses a tenth of the world’s plant and animal species, with many more yet undiscovered.

Brazil has the lion’s share of this huge biome, but experiencing its Amazon comes with some caveats. The town of Manaus, the gateway to many rainforest lodges, has gradually encroached on the forest over the years. It’s caused animals to scamper off into the undergrowth to parts where visitors never set foot.

This means that, although staying at northern Amazon lodges can be a great way to get a feel for the rainforest’s ecosystem, if you’re eager to spot wildlife you’re best going to the less developed southern Amazon — specifically, to Cristalino Jungle Lodge.

En route, you’ll pass two rivers, the Rio Solimões and the Rio Negro. They merge to form what we know as the Amazon River, which is 10 km (6.2 miles) wide even here, 1,600 km (994 miles) from the Atlantic Ocean.

Their meeting, however, is a little unusual: the yellow waters of the Solimões run alongside the black waters of the Negro for 6 km (4 miles) before converging. Some lodges farther away from Manaus sit right on the Rio Negro: its acidic waters attract fewer mosquitoes.

To stand a chance of seeing more species in the northern Amazon (including several monkey species), you’re best heading to a lodge around three hours from Manaus.

But, even if you stay closer, you’re quickly enveloped in the highly sensory world of the rainforest.

Days begin with the throaty calls of howler monkeys and perhaps the distant chug-chugging of a motorboat, as locals start going about their daily business. As dawn breaks, you can watch sheets of mist rising from the water. At night, you fall asleep to a thousand twangling sounds humming about your ears: the thrum of insects and cries of nocturnal creatures.

Wherever you go, the Amazon is a boon for botanists: you can boat amid giant waterlilies, and take medicinal plant walks with expert guides. They’ll tell you about the healing properties of ginger and kapok trees, among a multitude of other plants.

Given the lodge’s isolation, wildlife is much more prolific. You’re likely to see four monkey species (squirrel, howler, spider and capuchin) as well as many butterflies and birds, and potentially capybara. If you travel upstream, you might see giant river otters — great hulking beasts that are over double the size of a North American river otter.

The southern Amazon combines well with a trip to Brazil’s northern Pantanal , a wetland region that’s also a wildlife heartland.

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Suggested itinerary featuring the Amazon Rainforest

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in the Amazon Rainforest, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Brazil in a nutshell: Iguaçu Falls, Amazon & Rio

10 days from $9,660pp

Map of the Amazon Rainforest

Places & hotels on the map, places near the amazon rainforest.

• Manaus 10 miles away

Our expert guides to exploring the Amazon Rainforest

Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting the Amazon Rainforest, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate the Amazon Rainforest at its best.

Best of brazil: tips for a first-time visitor

Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and one of the most diverse, with a huge array of landscapes, people and culture. Discover our top tips for the best places to go on a first-time visit to this magnificent country.

What to do in Brazil: our highlights guide

Country specialist, Georgia, chooses some of her favorite things to see and do and where to stay in Brazil. Highlights include spending time in Rio and Salvador, the Amazon and the Pantanal’s wetlands, the best way to see the Iguaçu Falls and her pick of Brazil’s many beaches.

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Accommodation choices for the Amazon Rainforest

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit the Amazon Rainforest. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Cristalino Jungle Lodge

Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge

Uakari Floating Lodge

Amazon Lodge