For me, the Amazon has always had a mystical allure. Besides, I’ve always wanted to travel to a true rainforest, and the Amazon was often featured in the Ranger Rick magazines I read as a kid. As a result I’ve developed a bit of an obsession in making the trek into the Amazon Basin while I’m in South America. Brazilian Amazonia contains one of the world’s largest rain forests, and since I’m going to be traveling through Brazil in the near future my backpacking trip is certainly going to take a turn towards the realization of this childhood adventure.
Rainforests didn’t acquire the name by accident, and the Brazilian Amazonia is no different. Rainfall is heavy throughout the year, peaking during the wettest season from December to May. If you’re looking for wildlife look no further, Brazilian Amazonia has some of the highest biodiversity on the planet. Unfortunately, encroaching development and clear-cutting has begun to threaten the area. There has been a push towards ecologically sound developments in the last few years especially, but you may want to book that ticket over here pretty soon – like Venice, the Amazon as we know it might be playing its swan song.
One of the best ways to experience the Amazon is by boat, and budget travelers can rejoice since they’re very affordable if you’re willing to forego a bit of comfort. Two of the biggest river ports are Belem and Manaus, with Manaus being the real hub of river routes. Boats run the range from extravagant to dangerous, but there’s sure to be something to fit your needs. The most popular class on the boats is the hammock class, which is a sort of free for all on the decks. Selecting a good spot for your hammock is very, very important.
Try to arrive 3-4 hours before the boat ships off to stake your claim to a good spot. You want to be near the middle of the boat, to avoid the wind and rain that hits the front, and also to avoid the diesel fumes and bathroom smells that can linger towards the back of the boat. Also, be prepared to defend your personal space if it becomes overcrowded. Sometimes passengers will try to hang hammocks one on top of another, but a polite refusal should work fine.
In terms of packing, the weather is generally hot and humid, especially during the afternoon hours. When the boat is moving a nice breeze comes across the decks, and most people will be wearing shorts and t-shirts. It can get cool at night though, so a decent pair of pants and a hoodie are recommended as well. Bug spray and a lock for your belongings are two other essentials. Malaria and yellow fever are both present in the Amazon, and some areas even have strict regulations about them. It’s best to be prepared.
The river trips provide constant views of the rainforest on both sides, and the occasional stop to meet locals and restock. Your best bet for entertainment while the landscape slides by is conversation, so try to learn the language before embarking on a long trip. Also, plan on unforeseen delays on the river – tacking on three or four days to your itinerary to be safe.
Boat tours provide a unique way to experience the Amazon River and its surround rainforest, and come highly recommended. Not only will you get to see all sorts of wildlife, but you’ll be exposed to what life is like on the river for many indigenous peoples. If you’re the type of traveler that enjoys immersing yourself in a culture or place than these trips will be right up your alley.
