A Brazilian city deep in the Amazon rainforest, serving as a major river port and jungle tourism hub. Known for eco-lodges and as the world's largest roadless city.
Manaus, the capital of Brazil's Amazonas state, sits at the heart of the world's largest rainforest. This city of over 2 million people is where you can watch the Rio Negro and the Amazon River flow side by side without mixing, explore the ornate Teatro Amazonas built during the 19th-century rubber boom, venture into the surrounding jungle on eco-tours, taste Amazonian cuisine, or spend time on the urban beach of Ponta Negra.
Getting to Manaus
You can reach Manaus primarily by air or boat. Eduardo Gomes International Airport connects the city with major Brazilian hubs and some international destinations. From the airport, take a taxi, uber, or local bus to the city center. For a more adventurous route, consider arriving by boat. The journey from Belém to Manaus takes about five days, allowing you to experience the Amazon River up close.
The Meeting of the Waters
At the confluence of the Rio Negro and the Solimões River, you'll witness an intriguing natural phenomenon. The dark waters of the Negro and the muddy waters of the Solimões flow side by side for about 6 kilometers without mixing, creating a clear visual difference. Take a boat tour to see this spectacle up close and learn about the temperature and density differences that cause this effect.
Teatro Amazonas (Amazon Theater)
The Teatro Amazonas stands as a testament to Manaus's wealth during the rubber boom. Built in 1896, this Renaissance Revival opera house has 700 seats and contains materials from Europe, including French glass and Italian marble. You can attend performances or join guided tours to learn about its history and architecture.
Ponta Negra Beach
You'll find Ponta Negra Beach 13 kilometers from downtown Manaus. During the dry season, a strip of sand appears, creating a riverside beach. The area around Ponta Negra has restaurants, bars, and an amphitheater that can hold up to 15,000 people. Here, you can relax, eat local food, and watch the sunset over the Rio Negro.
Mercado Adolpho Lisboa (Municipal Market)
Founded in 1882, the Mercado Adolpho Lisboa is the city's oldest marketplace. Its design draws inspiration from the Les Halles market in Paris. As you walk through the iron-framed halls designed by Gustave Eiffel, you'll see vendors selling local produce, fish, and handicrafts. You can sample Amazonian fruits or try regional dishes at one of the market's cafes.
Amazon Rainforest Tours
From Manaus, you can easily access the Amazon rainforest. Choose from day trips or multi-day excursions to explore the surrounding jungle. Activities include hiking through the rainforest, canoeing along narrow waterways, observing wildlife, and visiting indigenous communities. Many tours also give you the chance to see the Victoria amazonica water lilies, which can grow up to 3 meters in diameter.
Local Cuisine
Manaus's cuisine reflects its Amazonian setting. Try pirarucu, a large freshwater fish often grilled or served in stews. Tacacá, a hot soup made with jambu leaves, dried shrimp, and manioc gum, is a common street food. Don't miss açaí, a nutrient-rich berry often served as a frozen pulp and mixed with granola and other toppings.
