- Seeing the European influenced city of Manaus, carved out of the dense jungle.
- Visiting local villages and meeting the isolated communities.
- Marveling at the wildlife, from enormous butterflies to curious monkeys roaming the canopy.
- Going a river cruise through the heart of the jungle, and listening to the night animals while falling asleep.
- Birdwatching in the most biodiverse rainforest on the planet.
Best Things to Do in Amazon River
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Things to do in Amazon River - Expert's guide
1. San Francisco Village/Jungle Community
Stop by the community of local villagers, the San Francisco Jungle community who have been living in the Amazon for generations. Most Amazon tours visit the schoolhouse - the children will greet you with warm smiles. They love visitors! There is also a local women’s arts and crafts market. This is a great place to support the locals buying gifts for your friends and family!
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2. Jungle Exploration
Located near the Marañon River, enter the “black water” stream and learn about the ecosystem. Early morning or late evening visits are best, when the wildlife are active. On land, learn about the ecosystem of the Amazon, the local villagers, and the medicinal purposes of the plants.
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3. Pacaya-Samiria Reserve
If you’re interested in birds, this is definitely an Amazon attraction you shouldn't miss. Pacaya-Samiria Reserve is home to over 450 birds - and that’s only what’s accounted for! Other wildlife in the reserve includes: over 100 species of mammals, 130 species of reptiles/amphibians, and various plants. Primate lovers will enjoy a stop here as well, since 13 primate species live in the Pacaya-Samiria too. This reserve is the largest wetland reserve in the world.
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4. Island of the Iguanas
Also located near the Marañon River is the Island of the Iguanas. If you’re on the lookout for iguanas, this is the place to be! The island is a popular spot for catch and release fishing. Make sure to watch for Piranhas, where you can see them up close!
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5. Rio Ucayali
The Rio Ucayali is a great place to see the wildlife along the Amazon River. Keep an eye out near the shores and by the boat, looking for gray river dolphins and Amazon pink dolphins. This area is surrounded by rainforest, with opportunities to see birds, monkeys and sloths hanging around. Giant water lilies are also found here. In the evening when dusk is nearing, be on the lookout for fishing bats.
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6. Ubos Lake
Travelers looking to catch their dinner (literally) can do this at Ubos Lake. Some tours offer a stop at this lake, home of piranha fishing. On lucky days, visitors can catch piranha (red-breasted, white or black) to later enjoy for dinner.
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7. Yanayacu/Pucate Rivers
Another fun nature option, the Yanayacu and Pucate rivers divert into creeks and lagoons, filled with biodiversity. Some of the beauty has to be seen up close. Some Amazon tours offer kayaking and/or stand up paddle boarding to really get a feel for the beauty of the Amazon.
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8. Swim with Dolphins
For those looking to get into the water, some tours offer an opportunity to take a dip in the Peruvian Amazon. There is a chance to encounter the Amazon’s pink dolphins. Even if there are no dolphin sightings, it gives visitors a unique way to experience the Amazon.
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9. Monkey Island
Another close up wildlife opportunity along the Amazon River is Monkey Island. This private reserve was created by a Non-profit dedicated to saving the monkeys that are often traded in local markets. Once they are in the reserve, they are able to live a freer life, protected from human predators.
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10. Native boras Community at Momon River
Originally from the Colombia border, the Native Boras community migrated south to live on the Momon River. Customs and cultural traditions have been kept alive, and some tours offer the opportunity to visit with this community to experience the traditions. When they are dancing, they like to paint their bodies. Experience the festivals and ceremonies at their ceremonial palace.
Top Amazon River Tours
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