The Amazon is a large ecosystem that spans eight countries and around 6.7 million square kilometres, making up around 40% of South America. Its size and diversity are unmatched, and it is home to the largest rainforest in the world as well as 10 out of all known species. And the vast River Amazon, which flows from the Andes of Peru to Brazil’s Atlantic coast, continues to be the lifeblood of it all. The Amazon rainforest landmarks and tropical rainforest landmarks are some of the most iconic in the world.
Many people’s top travel goals when travelling through South America include seeing the Amazon jungle and the special landmarks in the tropical rainforest. However, given its immense size, it can be challenging to determine which country is the best to visit. Here’s our guide to planning a visit to the Amazon rainforests for your perfect getaway.
Choose the best time to go
You can travel to the Amazon rainforest at any time of year. However, rainfall is always to be expected, as the name implies. Depending on the country you choose to visit, there are subtle differences in the best time to go. Nonetheless, the Amazon basin is often governed by two seasons.
Wet season (December to May)
The high-water season, which runs from December to May, provides intermittent rainfall throughout the day. The rivers will be higher during these months, making boat navigation and accessibility easier. But it also means more mosquitoes and colder weather, so you’ll need a strong repellent!
“Dry” season (June to December)
On the other hand, lower rivers and less rainfall occur during the low-water season. However, heavy showers are still common. While this affects river transportation, more hiking trails become accessible. Not only is it much simpler to spot animals like birds and caimans, but there are also fewer mosquitoes to worry about.
The best places within the Amazon rainforest
The Amazon River flows through a number of port cities that provide entry points for exploring this ecosystem as it meanders across the continent. Despite the fact that Brazil contains more than 60% of the Amazon, Peru and Ecuador are the other two major entry points.
Manaus, Brazil
With a population of about 2 million, Manaus is the largest city in the Brazilian Amazon and the country’s primary entrance. The only ways to get there are by plane or riverboat. Manaus’s proximity to the Central Amazon Biosphere is what attracts tourists to the area, despite being exciting in it’s own right with amenities like the Manaus Opera House and a vibrant city life.
The Amazon is home to several tour companies that provide both day trips and extended river cruises. There’s bound to be one that meets your needs, as they range from affordable to luxurious. Additionally, other jungle lodges in the vicinity provide activities like canoe cruises and hiking in the rainforest.
Why visit in Brazil?
Manaus provides an opportunity to witness the Amazon River in all its splendour, while other gateways are situated near tributaries or smaller portions of the river. Here, the river is 10 km wide; therefore, this is the ideal location for everyone who wants to be in awe of its immense size and scope.
The “Meeting of the Waters” is another event that can be witnessed in Manaus. This is the point at which the Rio Negro and the Rio Solimões combine to form the River Amazon. Because each river has a distinctly different tint, they don’t immediately integrate together, creating an amazing natural phenomenon.
Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos, Peru
Puerto Maldonado and Iquitos are Peru’s two primary entry points into the Amazon. Puerto Maldonado is located in the southeast of the country at the meeting point of the River Madre de Dios and the River Tambopata. It provides excellent access to the amazing Tambopata National Reserve. Staying at a lodge near or inside the reserve and going on a guided rainforest trip is the main way to explore the jungle here.
In contrast, Iquitos is a significantly bigger city located on the Amazon River in northeastern Peru. Access to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, home to animals like pink river dolphins, is one of its most well-known features. Either a river cruise or lodging in a resort are the two ways that visitors can choose to explore the jungle. Iquitos is an excellent place to start a multi-day cruise because it offers a variety of boats, from deluxe to adventure-style.
Why visit in Peru?
It’s faster and less expensive to get to Peru’s Amazonian jungle than the enormous expanse of Brazil. Road access is available to Puerto Maldonado, which is also regularly accessible by planes from Cusco and Lima. Thus, it’s simple to fit your visit into a quick trip while visiting other famous sites like Machu Picchu.
Peru also has the largest known parrot clay lick in the world. This clay deposit near Puerto Maldonado in Tambopata National Reserve is a birdwatcher’s dream come true. Hundreds of vibrant macaws, parakeets, and other species descend at dawn to feed on the minerals in the clay lick. It’s among the most colourful natural displays in the Amazon.
Coca, Ecuador
Coca, often referred to as Puerto Francisco de Orellana, is regarded as Ecuador’s greatest entry point to the Amazon rainforest. Located near two protected areas, the city is situated on the Napo River. Yasuni National Park and Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve are home to an unparalleled variety of wildlife.
Ecuador offers numerous well-organised tours to the Amazon, ranging from luxury eco-lodges to more adventurous camping trips and upscale resorts. Staying in a rainforest resort and taking guided wildlife trips are options available to visitors to Coca. An additional option is to go on a multi-day Amazon cruise.
Why visit in Ecuador?
Like Peru, Ecuador provides cheaper and faster access to the rainforest than Brazil. It only takes half an hour to get from Quito, the country’s capital, to Coca by plane or a few hours’ drive from Quito by car.
Additionally, one of the planet’s most biodiverse areas is Ecuador’s Amazon jungle. For those who enjoy wildlife, especially birdwatching, Yasuni National Park is a must-visit. Approximately one-third of the wildlife in the Amazon basin is represented by the 600 species of birds that have been spotted in the park.
So which country is best?
Choose Brazil to witness the Amazon River’s immense size and scope.
Choose Peru if you’re looking for a faster and less expensive trip.
Choose Ecuador if you wish to see the Amazon’s most biodiverse region.
What to pack
Clothing:
- Long-sleeved, lightweight shirts and trousers that protect you from the sun and insects.
- There is a lot of humidity, so clothes that dry quickly are ideal.
- A breathable, water-resistant jacket for frequent rainfall.
- A hat with a wide brim to shield the sun.
- Swimwear for use in pools or rivers.
Footwear:
- Waterproof hiking boots that provide a good grip on muddy and slippery paths.
- Water shoes or sandals designed for wading in water.
- Comfortable shoes for the lodge or camp.
Health and safety:
- Insect repellent with a high DEET content to keep mosquitoes and other insects away.
- If your accommodation does not offer mosquito netting, get it.
- High SPF lip balm and sunscreen.
Keep in mind that on these kinds of journeys, space can often be limited, so pack light. Additionally, consider the particular things you want to do and modify your packing list accordingly. It’s wise to inquire directly from your tour organiser about any extra suggestions or requirements.
