South America · Brazil
Manaus Travel Guide
Manaus is the gateway to the Amazon — a jungle city at the meeting of the Rio Negro and the Amazon River. The famous 'Meeting of the Waters' where two differently coloured rivers flow side by side is a natural wonder.
How Do You Get to the River?
Walk to town (10 min). Meeting of the Waters boat tours depart from the port. Jungle tours require boat transport.
What Can You Do?
Meeting of the Waters — Watch the dark Rio Negro and brown Amazon flow side by side for 6km before mixing. Boat tour $30-50.
Teatro Amazonas — Ornate rubber-boom opera house. Guided tours of the stunning interior.
Jungle excursion — Spot monkeys, sloths, pink river dolphins, and caimans. Half or full day.
Mercado Municipal — Covered market with Amazonian fish, exotic fruits, and herbal remedies.
Where Should You Eat?
Tambaqui: Amazonian freshwater fish grilled on charcoal. Firm, flavourful, and unique.
Tucupi: Yellow sauce from wild manioc used in tacacu (soup) and duck dishes.
Worth Exploring Independently?
Town is walkable. River and jungle tours bookable at the port — often cheaper than ship excursions.
Useful Local Phrases
Oi
Hi
(oy)
Obrigado/a
Thank you (m/f)
(oh-bree-GAH-doo / dah)
Local Tips
- •The Meeting of the Waters (dark Rio Negro meets brown Amazon) is visible by boat. Tours from the port ($30-50).
- •The Teatro Amazonas opera house is Manaus's architectural jewel — built during the rubber boom.
- •Bring insect repellent for any jungle excursion.
- •It's hot and humid year-round. Stay hydrated.