The activities of river cruises in the Amazon Rainforest differ depending on the season, making each trip totally remarkable
As ecotourism tours in the Amazon become even more comfortable and focused on exploring nature responsibly, river cruises are great for travelers looking for comfort, rich itineraries, eco-friendly practices, and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Considering the influence of the seasons on nature destinations, it’s common to wonder when is the best time of the year for Amazon river cruises in Brazil. Knowing this, in fact, is crucial for efficient vacation planning.
That’s why PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specialized in Amazon Rainforest tours in Brazil, has created a guide to help you understand the proper time for your river cruise. See more below!
Best time of the year to go on Amazon cruises in Brazil
Amazon jungle cruises can be enjoyed all year long! Even during periods when rainfall is significantly lower, the forest is humid enough that the rivers are always full for boats to pass through. The experience only becomes unfeasible during periods of extreme drought, but situations like that are atypical.
During different seasons (wet and dry), cruises operate normally, but activities change to accommodate weather variations and flooding in some areas of the forest.
In other words, you’ll discover the wonders of the Amazon regardless of the season, though your itinerary will vary according to the time of year.
.
👉 Read more:
Amazon river cruises in Brazil: rainy season (December to May)
The rain is frequent and heavy in the wet season. As the rivers get higher, the Amazon Basin starts to flood and some parts of the forest become submerged — that’s what locals call igapós.
For that reason, passengers leave the vessels and enjoy specific activities, such as:
- Canoeing and swimming through treetops in igapós
- Boat trips and other water-related activities in Anavilhanas National Park, Alter do Chão and the Mamirauá Reserve
- Wildlife watching — mostly Amazon pink dolphins, birds and mammals that usually climb trees to avoid the water
.
-
- .
-
- Photo: Marcelo Bonifácio
👉 Read more: When is the Best Time to visit the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil
Amazon river cruise in Brazil: dry season (June to November)
Less rain means lower water levels. As the rivers start to shrink, hiking trails are unblocked by the drainage of flooded areas.
Therefore, it’s easier to spot some aquatic or semiquatic animals, who concentrate on smaller zones in the water.
If you go on an Amazon boat cruise during the dry season, your itinerary will probably include:
- Hiking in the forest, as well as visiting waterfalls and exploring caves
- River beaches in Alter do Chão, Anavilhanas, Jaú National Park and near Manaus
- Night spotlighting — mostly caimans, but other nocturnal animals might also be spotted
.
-
- .
-
- .
👉 Read more: How to get to the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil?
What should I pack for an Amazon Rainforest river cruise?
As you can see, the best time of the year for Amazon river cruises in Brazil depends on what experience you’re looking for.
Whether you plan your trip during the wet or the dry season, here are some essential items you should definitely pack:
- Light clothes: t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts (preferably with UV protection), pants, shorts, hats or caps, swimwear
- Shoes: flip-flops, sandals, hiking boots
- Travel essentials: documents, money (cash and credit/debit cards), medication, sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), insect repellent, sunglasses, chargers (phones, cameras, laptops, tablets), powerbank
- Equipment: flashlight, raincoat, microfiber towel, personal reusable water bottle
.
Join PlanetaEXO on the best Amazon river tours
As an expert in Amazon Rainforest tours in Brazil, PlanetaEXO works with the most esteemed local operators to provide wonderful travel experiences in the largest rainforest on Earth, always following community-based and sustainable tourism practices.
Experience comfort and immersion in nature with our multiple-day luxury Amazon cruises and turn your dream vacation into reality. Contact us now!
