Welcome to Manaus, the incredible 'Gateway to the Amazon' and a truly unique cruise destination. Unlike any other port, Manaus immerses you in the heart of the world's largest rainforest, offering a remarkable blend of urban culture and untamed nature. Major lines like Viking Ocean Cruises and Holland America Line navigate the mighty Amazon River to reach this bustling metropolis. Passengers are drawn here for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the jungle's biodiversity, witness stunning natural phenomena, and discover a city rich with history from its rubber boom era.
The most iconic landmark in Manaus is the magnificent Teatro Amazonas, an opulent opera house built during the rubber boom era. Located in the city center, it is just a short walk from the cruise port and offers guided tours showcasing its stunning architecture.
A must-do excursion is a boat tour to the Meeting of the Waters (Encontro das Águas). This natural wonder is where the dark, acidic waters of the Rio Negro run alongside the sandy, sediment-rich waters of the Solimões River for miles without mixing. Another essential stop, also near the port, is the Mercado Adolpho Lisboa, a beautiful Art Nouveau market where you can experience local life and find unique Amazonian products.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
A popular full-day trip from Manaus is to the waterfalls and caves of Presidente Figueiredo, often called the 'Land of Waterfalls'. Located approximately 130 kilometers north (a 2-hour drive), it offers a refreshing escape into nature with opportunities for hiking and swimming.
For a deeper immersion into the Amazon's ecosystem, consider a boat trip to the Anavilhanas National Park, a magnificent freshwater archipelago on the Rio Negro. This UNESCO World Heritage site is about 100 kilometers upstream and showcases the incredible biodiversity of the region through its islands and waterways. Many guided river tours also include a visit to a local indigenous community to learn about their culture and way of life.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The Manaus cruise port, known as the Porto de Manaus, is conveniently located directly in the city's historic center (Centro). This prime location means that passengers can step off their ship and immediately start exploring the city's main attractions on foot.
There is no need for shuttles to reach the downtown area, as key sites like the Teatro Amazonas and the Mercado Adolpho Lisboa are within a 10-15 minute walk. The port itself is famous for its floating docks, an engineering marvel that rises and falls with the river's dramatic seasonal water level changes. Cruise ships dock directly here, so tendering is not required.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency in Manaus is the Brazilian Real (BRL). While some larger tourist-oriented hotels or shops might accept US Dollars, it is not common practice, and you will receive a poor exchange rate.
It is highly recommended to use the local currency for all transactions. ATMs, known as 'caixas eletrônicos', are widely available throughout the city center and in shopping malls. Credit cards are commonly accepted in major stores, restaurants, and hotels, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors, markets, and taxi fares.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Manaus is a large city, and visitors should exercise the same precautions as they would in any major urban area. The main tourist areas, such as the square around the Teatro Amazonas and the riverfront, are generally safe for independent exploration during daylight hours.
However, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpockets in crowded places like markets. Avoid walking in unlit or unfamiliar areas at night. For any excursions into the rainforest or onto the river, it is strongly recommended to use a reputable, guided tour for both safety and to get the most out of the experience.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Manaus has a hot and humid equatorial climate year-round, as it is located in the Amazon rainforest. Temperatures consistently range from 24°C (75°F) to 33°C (91°F), with high humidity. There are two primary seasons: a rainier season from approximately December to May, and a drier season from June to November, which is when most cruises visit.
Even during the 'drier' season, travelers should be prepared for sudden, heavy downpours that are usually short-lived. Essential items to pack include lightweight, breathable clothing, a good rain jacket, strong insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes suitable for both city streets and potentially muddy trails.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Getting around Manaus is relatively straightforward from the cruise port. Many of the main historical attractions are within walking distance. For destinations further afield, taxis are readily available near the port; always agree on a fare before starting your journey or ask the driver to use the meter ('taxímetro').
Ride-sharing services like Uber are also operational in Manaus and often provide a convenient and affordable alternative. While the city has an extensive public bus system, it can be challenging for visitors to navigate for a short stay. For iconic experiences like visiting the Meeting of the Waters or venturing into the rainforest, the best option is an organized boat tour excursion which will include all necessary transportation.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The best place for authentic local shopping is the Mercado Adolpho Lisboa. This historic iron-and-glass market is filled with stalls selling everything from fresh Amazonian fish and exotic fruits to indigenous handicrafts, herbal medicines, and souvenirs. It's an experience for all the senses.
Look for genuine souvenirs like hammocks, wood carvings from the Waimiri Atroari people, and jewelry made from local seeds and fibers. In the shops around the Teatro Amazonas, you'll find more tourist-focused gift shops. For a modern shopping experience with international brands, you can take a taxi to a large mall like Manauara Shopping. Haggling is acceptable in the market but not in formal stores.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
In Manaus, your shore excursion will reveal the Amazon's wonders, starting with the spectacular Meeting of the Waters where the dark Rio Negro and sandy Rio Solimões flow together unmixed for miles. You can also venture into the rainforest on a private safari to spot unique wildlife and learn about the vibrant ecosystem from local guides. Conclude your day by admiring the stunning architecture of the Teatro Amazonas, a lavish European-style opera house built in the heart of the jungle.
Arrive in Manaus with confidence, knowing a qualified local driver is waiting for you. Your driver knows the city very well, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey. Your transport is automatically confirmed upon booking, and we will contact you shortly to finalize all details.
Delve into the secrets of jungle life with this immersive instructional journey. Expert guides will demonstrate essential survival skills, including how to obtain water, fire, and salt from your surroundings. You will also learn how to identify edible vegetables, set traps for food, and construct basic shelters.
Embark on a private speedboat excursion to witness the famed Meeting of the Waters, where two rivers run side-by-side without mixing. Explore Janauary Ecological Park with a walk to the Lake of the Victories Regias and visit a community of houseboats. Your adventure continues with a chance to swim with pink dolphins and concludes with a visit to an indigenous community to watch a traditional ritual.
Discover the Amazon in a more authentic way with an expedition alongside the native people of the region. This experience is unique, as the activities are conducted with local people out in the jungle. Your tour includes an overnight stay, allowing you to fully experience the Amazon and listen to the sounds of the jungle after dark.
Journey into the heart of the Amazon jungle and immerse yourself in a world full of life and color. This tour takes you to the remote places of Janauary Lake where you can listen to the sounds of the forest. You will meet and learn about the feared piranhas and, after dark, face the small alligators that live in the flooded areas.
Enjoy the convenience of a private, 24-hour transfer service to your chosen destination. We offer the flexibility to personalize your experience by adjusting the route to include sightseeing stops. Simply let us know your interests, and we can create a customized journey for you.
Embark on an intimate, 4-day river cruise with a small group of no more than six guests. Discover the area where rivers meet to form the Amazon, and spend an evening watching for alligators. You will also observe rubber production, see how flour is prepared, and have the chance to swim and fish for piranhas as an on-board cook prepares your daily meals.
Learn to survive in the wild on this unique Manaus tour, led by a team with 20 years of experience. This package is designed to show you the jungle's beauty while teaching you how to thrive in the wild. The team is well-prepared to care for national and foreign customers and is indicated in the National Geographic International Travel book.
Experience the best of Manaus on a full-day tour that combines the city's most interesting attractions. This comprehensive excursion blends city sights with nature, history, and culture. You will see how Manaus has grown over the years and learn about the efforts being made to protect the surrounding forest and nature.
Embark on a 5-day guided adventure to explore the Amazon in a non-conventional way. This trip includes two nights spent camping out in the jungle for a truly immersive experience. Traveling in a small group of just two to six people per guide ensures you can hear the explanations and increases your chances of spotting wildlife.
Explore different parts of the gigantic and powerful Amazon, the world's last great natural wilderness. This hot and steamy environment is incredibly rich in flora and fauna, with many species yet to be classified. The sheer scale of the Amazon River, which holds one-fifth of the world's fresh water, is breathtaking, making this tour suitable for both families and nature lovers.
Journey into the heart of the Amazon on a tour that combines adventure, wildlife observation, and cultural immersion. Your experience begins with a guided trek through the dense rainforest, revealing the incredible biodiversity of the region. You will also sail through the breathtaking Anavilhanas Archipelago, one of the largest river archipelagos in the world.
Avoid the hassle of taxi queues with a private, door-to-door transfer from Manaus Airport to your hotel. Your flight is tracked and your driver will be waiting at a scheduled time with a nameplate, with no hidden charges. We contact you immediately after booking to confirm details and will send your driver's phone number one day before your trip for your convenience.
Join an Amazon survival tour designed for those seeking maximum contact with nature and in-depth knowledge of the forest. The trip takes place in the Juma area, a region located 100 kilometers south of Manaus. Be prepared for a fully immersive experience, as all nights on this tour are spent camping in the Amazon jungle.
Visit the Museu da Amazonia (MUSA), a 250-acre natural park and research lab located near the center of Manaus. Explore trails featuring trees, frogs, orchids, and birds for a great introduction to the Amazon ecosystem. Your visit includes a guided climb up the 135-foot observation tower, offering expansive views over the forest canopy.
Explore the wonders of MUSA, where you can find exhibitions, an orchid and bromeliad breeder, lagoons, and forest trails. Climb the 242-step tower for a magnificent view over the treetops and visit experimental labs for snakes, insects, and butterflies. Please note that the live animal halls are currently closed to visitors, and closed-toed shoes are mandatory.
Experience the rainforest at your fingertips by kayaking on the Urubu River, a narrow tributary east of Manaus. As very few people live on this river, you will enjoy peaceful days with little sign of humanity. The gentle current will aid your journey downstream, and you may even have the chance to shoot some safe but exciting rapids.
Learn about the fascinating history of Amazonian Jews, descendants of 19th-century Moroccan immigrants, on a private tour in Manaus. This special excursion includes a guided visit to the Beit Yaacov/Rabbi Meyr Synagogue, which was formed in 1962. You will also visit the Beit Chabad, the Jewish Cemetery, and the iconic Amazon Opera House.
Journey to the Amazon Boto Lodge, located in an isolated region of virgin rainforest about 110 kilometers from Manaus. Relax to the sounds of the jungle and explore the region by trekking, fishing, and bird watching. The trip also includes opportunities for night-time caiman spotting, watching the sunrise, and seeing the magnificent Meeting of the Waters.
Experience the Amazon with a tour that combines the comfort of a jungle lodge with the adventure of camping. You will spend time exploring the nature surrounding the lodge as well as camping out in the jungle. This provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the rainforest and how native people survive by using what nature provides.
No ships scheduled in port today.
On average cruises visiting Manaus are rather affordable compared to other itineraries. Prices are around steady throughout the year. Look at the diagram below for the average cost per day by month.
Want to hear about the best deals and cruise tips every week? Sign up for our free weekly VIP Newsletter, customized exactly to your preferences!
