Manaus Amazonas, Brazil Travel Guide
Wet Season (December to May): Frequent, heavy rainfall. Rain often comes in short, intense bursts. River levels are highest, allowing boats into flooded forests (igapós) and smaller tributaries. Extensive flooding can make some trails muddy or submerged. Wildlife might be dispersed, but flooded forests offer unique perspectives for seeing animals from a canoe. Mosquitoes can be more present.
Dry Season (During the Months of june to november): Less rainfall, more sunny days. The humidity stays high but feels slightly lower. River levels drop, exposing more land and sandy beaches, including Ponta Negra beach. Receding waters concentrate wildlife closer to water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Jungle trails become drier. Mosquito populations can decrease.
Manaus is not prone to hurricanes. The heavy rainfall during the wet season is a regular part of the annual climate cycle. Unusually high or low temperatures are rare. The city experiences consistent heat and high humidity, making the "feels like" temperature often higher than the actual recorded temperature.
Expect warmth and moisture all year.
December to May
River exploration, flooded forest access (igapós).
Frequent heavy rainfall, muddy trails, more mosquitoes.
From june To november
Jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, river beaches.
Higher prices, busier attractions.
Consistent Climate
Piranha fishing, caiman spotting, general river tours.
High hot and muggy weather throughout the year.
Jungle Trekking & Wildlife Spotting (on land): The dry season (July-November) generally shows better conditions for land-based treks. Trails are drier, and wildlife tends to gather closer to remaining sources of water, making sightings potentially easier.
River Discovery AND Flooded Forests (Igapós): The wet season (December-May) grants access into the flooded forests by boat or canoe. This unique experience places you among the tree canopy, seeing the forest from a truly distinct viewpoint.
Good all year, easier in dry season.
Occurs nightly, good all year.
Dry season (July-Nov) for river beaches.
Wet season (Dec-May) for igapós.
Dry season (July-Nov) for better trail conditions.
Requirements vary by nationality. Checking current regulations before your trip is always a good idea, as rules can change. Brazil has a plan of reciprocity.
Citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free entry for tourism stays, frequently for up to 90 days. This includes travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most European Union member states. This period can sometimes extend for another 90 days, for a total of 180 days within a 12-month period. Citizens from countries not on the visa exemption list must obtain a visa in advance from a Brazilian embassy or consulate.
Regardless of visa needs, certain documents are necessary for entry into Brazil. Having these documents ready upon arrival streamlines the entry process.
Costs vary widely depending on your travel style, from backpacking to luxury experiences. The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL), symbol R$.
Daily average costs in Brazilian Reais, excluding international flights.
Daily Costs: R$150 - R$250 (approximately $30-$50 USD)
Accommodation: R$50-R$80 for dorm, basic private around R$100.
Meals: R$50-R$80 (street food, local eateries, groceries).
Daily Costs: R$350 - R$700 (approximately $70-$140 USD)
Accommodation: R$150-R$300 for a mid-range hotel.
Transportation: R$30-R$70 (taxis, ride-sharing, transfers).
Daily Costs: R$1000+ (approximately $200+ USD)
Accommodation: R$500-R$1500+ (luxury hotels, eco-lodges).
Activities: R$150+ daily (bespoke tours, exclusive experiences).
| Category | Item/Service | Price Range (R$) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodations | Hostel Dorm Bed | 50-80 |
| Meals | "Prato Feito" (set lunch menu) | 20-40 |
| Transportation | Public Bus Fare | 4.50-5.00 |
The Amazon environment has unique considerations, but with proper preparation and awareness, you can maintain a healthy and secure trip.
Vaccination highly recommended; get it 10 days before travel.
Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, Malaria. Use high-DEET/Picaridin repellent.
Drink only bottled or purified water. Be cautious with raw foods.
Intense equatorial sun and high humidity can quickly lead to sunburn or heat-related illness.
Use high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen generously and reapply often. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Stay hydrated by consuming enough water throughout the day. Seek shade during peak heat day (mid-morning to late afternoon).
Affiliate link for sun protection: Amazon.com
Manaus has public and private hospitals. Private hospitals (e.g., Hospital Santa Júlia) generally offer better facilities and English-speaking staff.
Widely available for over-the-counter medications plus simple first aid supplies.
Dial 192 for ambulance (SAMU), 190 for police, 193 for fire.
Manaus, like any large city, has areas with greater crime rates. Petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs, especially in crowded tourist areas, markets, and on public transport.
Manaus is not prone to hurricanes. The heavy rainfall during the wet season is a natural part of the annual climate cycle.
During the wet season (Dec-May), river levels rise, causing localized flooding in low-lying metropolitan areas and riverine communities.
Consistent high temperatures and humidity present a risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Jungle tours carry risks linked with wild environments. Always obey your guide's instructions.
