Manaus, Brazil
Welcome to Manaus, the incredible “Heart of the Amazon” and one of the most unique cruise ports in the world. Located over 900 miles up the majestic Amazon River, this port offers an unforgettable adventure deep within the rainforest. Major lines like Viking Ocean Cruises, Holland America Line, and Seabourn make this epic journey. The main appeal for passengers is the unparalleled opportunity for authentic Amazonian experiences, from exploring lush jungles and encountering exotic wildlife to discovering a rich, vibrant culture far from the ocean shore.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Manaus is the magnificent Amazon Theatre (Teatro Amazonas), a lavish opera house built during the 19th-century rubber boom, located a short walk from the port. A must-do excursion is a boat tour to the Meeting of the Waters (Encontro das Águas), a stunning natural phenomenon where the dark Rio Negro and the sandy-colored Solimões River flow side-by-side without mixing for miles. For a taste of local life, visit the Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market, an Art Nouveau masterpiece where you can find exotic fruits, fish, and artisan crafts. Many passengers also opt for a guided jungle trek to experience the rainforest's incredible biodiversity firsthand.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
While the city itself is the main focus, many excursions explore the surrounding Amazon. One popular destination is the Anavilhanas National Park, a vast freshwater river archipelago located several hours upstream by boat. Here, visitors can explore flooded forests and spot unique wildlife on guided tours. Another option for a full-day trip is the area around Presidente Figueiredo, known as the "Land of Waterfalls," located about a two-hour drive north of Manaus. This area offers opportunities to hike to and swim in stunning waterfalls and explore ecological reserves.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
The cruise port in Manaus is conveniently located directly in the city's historic downtown area (Centro Histórico). Passengers can disembark and find themselves within a short walking distance of many key attractions. The famous Amazon Theatre is approximately a 15-minute walk from the pier. The port area itself is bustling with commercial activity, and amenities are readily available nearby. Because ships dock directly at the pier, tendering is not required, and transportation shuttles are generally not needed to explore the immediate city center.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
The official currency in Manaus and throughout Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). While some tourist-oriented businesses might accept US dollars, it is not common practice, and you will get a better rate by using the local currency. ATMs are widely available throughout the city center and in shopping malls for withdrawing Reais. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and established shops. It is always wise to carry some local cash for smaller purchases at markets or street vendors.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
Manaus is a large city, and visitors should exercise the same precautions they would in any major urban area. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places like markets, to prevent pickpocketing. It is advisable to avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash. Exploring the main tourist areas of the city center on foot during the day is generally considered safe. However, for any excursions into the rainforest or visits to neighborhoods outside the central district, it is highly recommended to use a reputable, guided tour company.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
Manaus features a tropical rainforest climate, which is consistently hot and humid throughout the year. Average daily temperatures typically range from 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F). The region experiences a wet season from December to May and a relatively drier season from June to November, though rain showers are possible at any time. Passengers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a reliable rain jacket, strong insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable waterproof walking shoes. The Amazon is not located in an area affected by hurricanes.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
Walking is an excellent way to explore the compact historic center of Manaus, as many attractions are close to the port. For longer distances, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available and offer a convenient and affordable option. Always confirm the driver uses a meter or agree on a price before starting your trip. While there is a public bus system, it can be challenging for visitors to navigate. For most excursions outside the city, such as a Meeting of the Waters boat tour or a jungle wildlife tour, transportation is included as part of an organized tour package, which is the most practical choice.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
For authentic local souvenirs, the Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market is the premier destination, offering everything from local foods to indigenous handicrafts. Nearby, you can often find open-air artisan markets selling wood carvings, seed jewelry, and woven goods. These markets are excellent places to find unique gifts reflecting Amazonian culture. For a more conventional shopping experience, Manauara Shopping and Amazonas Shopping are large, modern malls with a variety of national and international stores. While prices in malls are fixed, some light bargaining may be possible with vendors at the artisan markets.
Last updated on February 27, 2026
Discover the amazing history of Manaus on this half-day tour led by an experienced guide. Learn about the rubber boom era when the city was known as the 'Little Paris of the Tropics' and visit treasures from that rich period. This tour is available in the morning and afternoon, but on Mondays it operates as a sightseeing-only tour.
Embark on a 3-hour private historic city tour through Manaus in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide. This comprehensive experience covers key sights like the Amazonas Theatre, Rio Negro Palace, and the Municipal Market, plus various fairs and plazas. You will also observe ancient houses and the exterior of the City Museum for a complete cultural perspective. Please note, the Amazonas Theatre is closed for internal visits on Mondays.
Experience an amazing four-hour speedboat tour to the confluence of the Negro and Solimões rivers, where the waters flow side-by-side without mixing. Explore the flooded forest and visit the beautiful January Lake, a place with abundant wildlife. Accompanied by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you will see giant lily pads and other native fauna and flora.
Take an educational guided tour into the Amazon, the world's largest jungle. Travel by motorized canoe into the rainforest where an experienced bilingual guide will lead your exploration. During the tour, you will be introduced to the native wildlife and a variety of amazing plants.
Explore the Amazon Rainforest, the biggest jungle on Earth, on this 8-hour tour with an experienced guide. Visit the amazing Anavilhanas Archipelago and see as many wild animals as possible. Lunch is included in this full-day excursion.
Take a private jungle walk into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest to breathe the purest air in the world. This tour is specially designed for you to explore the impressive Maroaga and Judeia Caves, which are unique sandstone formations. You will also experience the jungle's vibration and the power of our impressive waterfalls.
See Manaus by land and water on this 4-hour guided tour. Explore famous city sights including the Amazonas Opera House and the traditional market while learning about its history as the 'Paris of the Tropics'. Afterwards, you will board a speedboat on the Amazon River to see the incredible Meeting of the Waters and a floating village.
Embark on a full-day speedboat adventure on the Amazon and Negro Rivers. The tour includes seeing the Meeting of the Waters, visiting a village of boat houses, and viewing the giant lily pads of Janauary Lake. You will also participate in piranha fishing, observe river dolphins, and join a night activity to spot caimans and owls.
Arrange for a private transfer in a new, comfortable, and air-conditioned vehicle for your trips in Manaus. Your professional driver knows the region well, ensuring a safe and reliable journey. Please provide your pickup time and be aware of the baggage limit of three 23kg bags and three 10kg bags, as exceeding this will incur an extra cost.
This 8-hour tour from Manaus combines three amazing experiences in the Amazon. Travel by speedboat with your local guide to watch dolphins in the wild and visit an indigenous village. You will also see the famous Meeting of the Waters where two rivers flow side-by-side without mixing.
Explore the wildlife of Brazil on this tour of the Solimoes River. Participate in thrilling activities like Piranha fishing and alligator spotting. You will also visit a center for local handcrafts and explore streams and flooded areas if the season is the right time of year.
Travel to Presidente Figueiredo, a small town north of Manaus known as the 'waterfalls paradise.' The area features more than 100 waterfalls and unique, ancient rock formations that tell the story of the pre-historic Amazon. Enjoy an enjoyable day dedicated to experiencing the unforgettable waterfalls in the middle of the rainforest.
This tour of Manaus's historical center focuses on the city's wealthiest era during the rubber boom. Starting from your hotel, you will walk through 'old Manaus' to see the neo-classic style of the buildings. Key visits include the Amazonas Opera House, the Rio Negro Palace, and the market complex with its three unique buildings.
Embark on a 6-hour journey by covered speedboat deep into the heart of the Amazon. Witness the stunning Meeting of the Waters before venturing into the rainforest to observe macaws and monkeys with a local expert guide. The tour continues with a warm visit to an indigenous community and includes a traditional Amazonian lunch and round-trip transfers.
Discover Manaus with a tour that combines nature and history. First, visit Musa, the Museum of the Amazon, a native forest area with exhibitions, forest trails, and a 42-meter tower for treetop views. Afterwards, take a city tour to see Praça da Matriz, the Adolpho Lisboa Market, the Banana Fair, and the Teatro Amazonas.
Uncover the mysteries of the tropical night with this Amazon adventure that includes hotel pickup. Board a boat and journey along the Solimões and Amazon Rivers with an expert naturalist guide. Using flashlights, you will explore the nocturnal wonders of the jungle and spot wildlife, including the glowing eyes of alligators.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and culture of the Amazon on this excursion. You will admire the famous Meeting of the Waters and visit an indigenous tribe to learn about their culture. The tour also includes a delicious regional lunch and an optional opportunity to interact with Amazonian dolphins.
This tour provides a comprehensive look at the key sights of Manaus. You will visit architectural marvels like the Opera House, also known as the Amazonas Theater, the Rio Negro Palace, and the Alto Rio Negro Bridge. The itinerary also includes exploring cultural and commercial hubs like the Indian Museum, the bustling Fish and Banana Markets, and the Manaus Port area.
Explore the Amazonian city of Manaus on a 3-hour sightseeing tour. Your guide will explain the history and culture of the city as you make stops at the Rio Negro Palace, Indian Museum, Justice Palace, and the famous Teatro Amazonas. You will also see the floating port of Manaus and the Municipal Market.
Journey into the heart of the forest to experience a unique and unexplored world. This tour brings you to see old trees, some reaching 70 meters tall. At these heights, you can find an exuberance of life including exotic orchids, bromeliads, birds, and other animals.
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Prices are about equal throughout the year. On average cruises that visit Manaus are fairly expensive compared to other itineraries. Take a look at the diagram below for the average cost per day by month.
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