Best Places to Visit in the Amazon, Brazil

The Amazon is more than a rainforest. It’s full of rivers, animals, amazing people, and places to explore.

Wondering where to go in the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil? Covering 4.1 million square kilometers of Brazil, this ecosystem is one of the largest and most biodiverse regions on the planet. When considering the best places to visit in the Amazon, you’ll find a variety of options to suit every type of traveler.

Each destination in the Amazon is unique, offering experiences ranging from deep jungle exploration to visits to local communities. Some places are perfect for photography, others for canoeing, or even learning from the locals. No matter where you go, each adventure is unforgettable.

PlanetaEXO, a travel platform specializing in ecotourism, has curated this list to help you find the best spots in the Amazon. These destinations highlight the beauty of the region while supporting both nature and local communities through sustainable tourism in the Amazon. Check it out:

1. Anavilhanas National Park (Amazonas)

This park sits on the Rio Negro and has more than 400 river islands. It’s one of the biggest archipelagos of freshwater in the world. You can go on boat rides, see birds, and hike in the forest. 

In addition, Anavilhanas is home to one of the largest concentrations of floodplain forests in the Amazon. The trees and plants in these forests adapt to submerged and dry conditions throughout the year.

Why visit:

• See pink river dolphins and many bird species. 
• Go on boat tours and forest hikes.
• Discover the “Várzea” ecosystem.

How to get there: Easy to reach from Novo Airão, near Manaus.

👉  Interested in exploring the Anavilhanas National Park? You can stay at the Mirante do Gavião Amazon Lodge for four days and explore the area with expert guides. 

2. Jaú National Park (Amazonas)

Jaú is one of the biggest national parks in Brazil (covers an area of approximately 23.673 km²) and it’s part of a protected area listed by UNESCO. It’s very wild and great for people who love deep forest adventures!  

Interesting fact: The park is home to the Jaú River, one of the longest black-water rivers in the Amazon.

Highlights:

• Explore one of the most preserved areas of the Amazon.
• Look for monkeys, colorful birds, giant otters, and more.
• Less crowded with tourists.

How to get there: Reachable by boat from Novo Airão.

👉 A great way to visit Jaú National Park is with a 5-day Amazon River cruise, including guided tours in the park. Discover the cruise!

3. Alter do Chão (Pará)

People call this town the “Caribbean of the Amazon” because of its white sand beaches and clear river water. It’s great for swimming and relaxing, especially from September to November.

Alter do Chão is also known for its annual Sairé Festival, a celebration of local culture featuring music, dance, and traditional food. The festival draws visitors from all over Brazil and the world.

Don’t miss:

• Beautiful beaches.
• Visits to the Tapajós National Forest.
• Canoe trips on Lago Verde.

How to get there: Alter do Chão is easily accessible from Santarém, which is accessible by flights from Belém and Manaus.

👉Ready to discover the “Caribbean of the Amazon”? Book your Amazon Cruise from Alter do Chão now and experience it all!

4. Mamirauá Reserve (Amazonas)

This area near Tefé is known for protecting nature and involving local communities. The forest floods during part of the year, creating unique sights and sounds.

Mamirauá is recognized for its role in preserving the Amazon’s rich aquatic ecosystems, supporting species like the Amazonian manatee and giant river otters.

Cool things to do:

• Look for rare animals like the white Uakari monkey.
• Sleep in floating lodges.
• Learn from local guides.

How to get there: The Mamirauá Reserve can be reached by boat from Tefé, which is accessible by air from Manaus.

Ready to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Mamirauá Reserve? Join our Amazon Rainforest Ecolodge Trip, where you’ll explore Mamirauá’s unique ecosystems.

5. Presidente Figueiredo (Amazonas) 

Presidente Figueiredo, known as the “Land of Waterfalls“, is a unique destination just 107 kilometers from Manaus, famous for its stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest. With over 100 waterfalls to explore, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and a perfect spot for capturing beautiful photos.

Don’t miss:

• Iracema Waterfall: A peaceful spot for swimming and relaxation.
• Santuário Waterfall: A crystal-clear gem surrounded by vibrant jungle.
• Explore Caverna do Maroaga (Maroaga Cave): Discover impressive stalactites and stalagmites in one of the region’s largest caves.
• Neblina Waterfall: One of the tallest in the region, surrounded by mist and a magical atmosphere. Requires a longer hike to reach.

How to get there: Presidente Figueiredo is a 2-hour drive from Manaus, easily reachable by car or bus.

Want to make the most of your stay in Presidente Figueiredo? Try an adventure on the Urubu River with our 4-Day Amazon Kayak Tour!

6. Tapajós River & Forest (Pará)

For those looking to experience both rivers and forests in one trip, you’ll find the perfect combination here. The water is green and clear, while the nearby forest is lovingly maintained by local families.

The Tapajós Basin is home to a diverse range of Amazonian flora, including many species unique to the region, with thousands of plant species likely present.

Why go:

• Go hiking and stay in small lodges
• Learn about plants and forest life
• Enjoy both the river and the forest in one place

How to get there: The Tapajós River can be reached by boat from the city of Santarém. 

7. Acajatuba Lake (Amazonas)

Close to Manaus, Acajatuba Lake is surrounded by diverse riverside communities, including traditional flour houses. It’s renowned as one of the best places to swim with the Amazon’s pink river dolphins.

Many ecolodges in the area offer a chance to connect with local families, see wildlife, and experience authentic Amazonian culture.

What to do:

• Canoe through flooded forests
• Visit local communities 
• Watch the sunset in a calm setting
• Swim with the pink river dolphins

How to get there: Acajatuba can be reached by boat from Manaus.

👉Want to swim with pink river dolphins in Acajatuba? Join the Zaltana Luxury Amazon Cruise and explore Acajatuba and other amazing Amazonian destinations.

8. Juma Reserve (Amazonas) 

The Juma Reserve, near Novo Aripuanã,  is a success in ecotourism. It helps protect the forest and provides jobs for local communities. You’ll see wildlife and beautiful landscapes.

This place is home to the REDD+ project, the first in Brazil to receive international certification for reducing emissions from deforestation. It also supports over 430 bird species and several endangered animals.

Main experiences:

• Spot animals in the flooded forest
• Learn about tree planting and forest care
• Stay in green, comfy lodges

How to get there: The Juma Reserve is accessible by boat from the city of Autazes, which can be reached from Manaus via a short flight.

 

👉 Embark on a jungle lodge tour with boat rides and nature walks to immerse yourself in the Amazon.

9. Mamori River Region (Amazonas)

This region, south of Manaus, is more remote and offers an authentic jungle adventure. Ideal for those seeking a true wilderness experience, you can join camping trips, paddle along the river, and explore untouched landscapes.

The Mamori River is known for its crystal-clear waters and rich wildlife diversity, including the endangered Amazonian manatee. The area is also famous for its pristine environment, making it a perfect destination for ecotourism and nature lovers.

Why go:

• Explore the wild with expert guides 
• Try real Amazon survival trips
• Great for birdwatching and kayaking

How to get there: The Mamori River can be reached by boat from Manaus.

👉 Looking for a true jungle immersion experience? If you crave an adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Amazon, our 4-Day Brazilian Amazon Jungle Tour is for you.

10. Manaus (Amazonas)

Manaus is the capital of Amazonas state and the main gateway to the rainforest. The city boasts a rich history, bustling markets, and vibrant theaters, making it a cultural hub. It’s also where many Amazon tours begin. 

If you don’t want to go deep into the jungle, or if you want to explore the city before or after visiting the Amazon rainforest, Manaus is a good place to take day trips and still enjoy the Amazon.

Why visit:

• See the Amazon Theatre and local markets
• Start tours to Anavilhanas, Juma, and Mamori 
• Explore nature without leaving the city for long
• Get to know the local cuisine 
• Visit the Museu da Amazônia (MUSA)

How to get there: Manaus is easily accessible by air, with Eduardo Gomes International Airport serving as the main gateway.

👉Want to explore everything Manaus has to offer? Discover where to stay, the best restaurants, and must-do tours in our complete Manaus Travel Guide.

How to Choose The Best Places to Visit in the Amazon?

What kind of adventure do you want? Are you excited to see animals, meet new people, or relax in nature? Your choice will help you find the best spot.

Each place has different highlights, travel times, and activities. So, it’s essential to think about what you enjoy and plan your trip accordingly!

It’s important to note that you can easily combine different destinations in a single itinerary, especially within the same state. For example, PlanetaEXO offers diverse itineraries that blend parks and local communities in the Amazon, allowing you to experience the best of this incredible rainforest.

Why Travel the Amazon with Sustainable Tourism Practices

The Amazon plays a crucial role in regulating rainfall, stabilizing global temperatures, and maintaining unparalleled biodiversity. However, it faces significant threats, with over 50 million hectares of forest lost between 1985 and 2023. 

Choosing the right ecotourism experiences plays a key role in protecting the Amazon. By traveling with local guides and staying at ecolodges, you support sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the local communities.

Explore the Amazon Rainforest with PlanetaEXO

PlanetaEXO helps you find responsible and fun ways to explore the rainforest through sustainable tourism in the Amazon. You can go on hikes, canoe trips, or meet forest communities. We help travelers connect with nature while helping to protect it.

From beaches in Alter do Chão to protected areas like Jaú National Park and Anavilhanas National Park, the Amazon has something for everyone. The best places to visit in the Amazon in Brazil are those that match your style and support both nature and local communities.

When you travel with care, you help protect one of the most important places on Earth. Ready to explore?

👉 Talk to our team and find the best adventure in the Amazon for you. 

Read More: 

• 8 conservation projects in the Amazon to support in 2025
• How many days should you spend in the Amazon?
• How to get to the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil?