Manaus - Discovering Brazil

Travelling to Manaus

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Manaus, a pretty good destination in Brazil (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Manaus and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Manaus, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Brazil, here's everything to know about Manaus for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Manaus

Manaus is a city located in the state of Amazonas in Brazil. It is located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest and is an important gateway to the region. The city is home to a population of over 2 million people and is a hub for trade, industry, and tourism. Manaus is known for its stunning natural beauty, with unique flora and fauna, and is a popular destination for eco-tourism. It is also home to several historic landmarks, including the iconic Amazonas Theatre, and has a vibrant cultural scene with lively markets, music, and dance performances.

What to visit in Manaus

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Manaus, Brazil: 1. Meeting of Waters - This is a natural phenomenon where the dark waters of the Rio Negro meet the light waters of the Solimões River, creating two distinct colors that flow side by side for several kilometers without mixing. It's a unique sight to see and a popular boat tour.
2. Amazon Theatre - This historic theater in the heart of Manaus was built in the late 19th century during the rubber boom era. It's designed in a neoclassical style with ornate decorations, and hosts live performances and concerts.
3. Mercado Municipal - This is the main market in Manaus and a great place to experience local culture. You can find fresh produce, fish, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
4. Rio Negro Palace Museum - This is a former governor's palace that's now a museum showcasing the history and culture of the Amazon region. It has several collections of art, furniture, and artifacts.
5. Janauari Ecological Park - This nature reserve is located about 1 hour outside of Manaus and is a great place to explore the Amazon's biodiversity. You can take a boat tour, see animals like sloths and monkeys, and hike through the jungle.
6. Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market - This market is located near the port in Manaus and has a beautiful art deco building. You can find traditional foods and souvenirs here.
7. Manaus Botanical Garden - This garden has over 2,000 species of plants and trees from the Amazon region. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own.
8. Ponta Negra Beach - This is a popular beach on the Rio Negro River with white sand and clear water. There are restaurants and bars nearby, and it's a good place to relax and enjoy the view.
I hope this list helps with your trip planning to Manaus!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Brazil, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Manaus.

When to go on holiday to Manaus

The best time to visit Manaus is during the dry season, which runs from June to November. During this period, there is less rainfall and the weather is generally more pleasant. However, it's important to note that Manaus is located in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, so even during the dry season, there may be some rain and high humidity. If you're planning to explore the rainforest, it's important to be prepared for the weather and bring appropriate clothing and gear. Additionally, keep in mind that the dry season is also the high season for tourism in Manaus, so prices for accommodation and tours may be higher. If you're looking for a budget-friendly trip, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, which runs from December to May, when there is more rain but also fewer crowds and lower prices.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Manaus

There are a few ways to get to Manaus, Brazil: 1. By air: The easiest and most popular way is to fly into the Manaus International Airport (MAO) from a major city in Brazil, such as Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo, or from nearby countries such as Colombia or Peru. There are also direct flights from Miami, USA.
2. By boat: Another option is to take a boat up the Amazon River from a nearby city like Porto Velho, Brazil or Iquitos, Peru. This is a more adventurous option and can take several days.
3. By land: You can get to Manaus by driving or taking a bus, but this can be a long and difficult journey due to the poor condition of the roads in the region.
Overall, the best way to reach Manaus is by air, as it is the most efficient and offers the most options.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Manaus, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Manaus

Manaus is known for its rich food culture, influenced by indigenous and Portuguese cuisine. Here are some typical foods from Manaus: 1. Tacacá - A soup made with tucupi (a yellow broth made from cassava), jambu leaves (an herb that numbs your tongue), dried shrimp, and sometimes chicken. It's popular as a street food in Manaus.
2. Pirarucu de casaca - This dish is made with pirarucu (a large freshwater fish found in the Amazon river), cassava flour, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. The fish is boiled and then sautéed with the vegetables, served over a bed of fried bananas.
3. Tambaqui assado - Another popular dish with fish, tambaqui is seasoned with salt, pepper, and lime, then grilled or baked. It's typically served with rice and farofa (toasted cassava flour).
4. Carne de sol - A typical Brazilian dish made with salt-cured beef, carne de sol is usually served with rice and beans, fried manioc, and often topped with a fried egg.
5. Bolo de macaxeira - This is a cake made with grated cassava, sugar, and sometimes coconut. It's typically served for breakfast or as a dessert.
6. Banana da terra frita - Fried plantain slices that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They're a popular side dish in Manaus and also served as a snack.
7. Cupuaçu juice - Made from the fruit of the cupuaçu tree, cupuaçu juice is a popular drink in Manaus. It has a tangy, fruity taste and is often mixed with sugar or condensed milk.
You can find general info about typical foods in Brazil here.

Is Manaus an expensive destination for tourists?

Manaus can be an expensive destination for tourists compared to other cities in Brazil, mainly because it is located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, which makes logistics more complex and expensive. Accommodation and food prices can be higher than in other destinations within Brazil.
However, there are ways to save money while visiting Manaus. For example, booking in advance can help you save money on flights and accommodations. Additionally, you can eat at local markets or street food vendors, which offer cheaper and delicious meals. Also, there are many free or low-cost activities to do, such as visiting the Amazon theater, strolling through the historic center, and exploring the local river and waterfalls.

Where to find accomodation in Manaus

The best areas to find accommodation in Manaus, Brazil to visit would likely be the central area near the Amazonas Theater and the surrounding historic buildings, as well as the Ponta Negra neighborhood, which features beautiful views of the Rio Negro and has many bars, restaurants, and shopping options. The airport area and the industrial district may also be possible options for accommodation, depending on individual preferences and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Manaus here:
Booking.com

Is Manaus a safe destination for tourists?

Manaus, like any other city, has its share of safety concerns that visitors should be aware of. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and street crime are common in certain areas of the city, especially in the city center and tourist areas. It is recommended that visitors take precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items, being aware of their surroundings, and avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas at night.
Additionally, it is recommended that visitors research the safety of specific neighborhoods and areas they plan to visit and consider using a reputable tour operator or guide when exploring the city or the Amazon rainforest. Overall, with the right precautions and common sense, Manaus can be a safe place for tourists to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Brazil here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Manaus.

What type of travelers will enjoy Manaus the most?

Manaus is a destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. However, it is mainly famous for its ecotourism and nature-related activities as it has access to the Amazon rainforest. Thus, this destination is most suitable for families, couples and solo travelers who love nature and outdoor activities such as jungle trekking, bird watching, and river cruises. Additionally, the city itself has a rich cultural heritage and history that can appeal to history buffs or those interested in regional cuisine and handicrafts. Nightlife options are available, but they are not as vibrant as some other cities in Brazil, so young people looking for intense partying should consider other alternatives.

How to get around Manaus

The most common modes of transportation in Manaus are buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services such as Uber or 99. The city also has a ferry system that operates on the Rio Negro and Rio Amazonas rivers. Bicycle rentals are another option for exploring the city on your own. However, keep in mind that some areas of the city may be more suitable for certain modes of transportation than others, so it's always a good idea to check with locals or guides for the best advice.

What to see around Manaus

Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Manaus, Brazil: 1. Meeting of the Waters – a natural wonder where the Rio Negro and Rio Solimoes meet and flow alongside each other without merging for several kilometers.
2. Anavilhanas Archipelago – a group of over 400 islands, located near Manaus, which is home to diverse wildlife, indigenous communities, and lush rainforest.
3. Presidente Figueiredo – a picturesque town with dozens of waterfalls, caves and ecological reserves that offer scenic hikes, swimming, and adventure activities.
4. Parque do Mindú – a park located within Manaus, which has a forested area, several trails, and a butterfly house.
5. Janauari Ecological Park – a natural reserve that offers boat tours through the narrow channels, allowing visitors to see local flora and fauna from a unique perspective.

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