Anavilhanas Archipelago

Arquipélago de Anavilhanas

Located upstream from Manaus, this stunning archipelago of over 400 islands in the Rio Negro is a pristine wilderness with flooded forests, pink river dolphins, and exceptional biodiversity. It's accessible by boat tours from Manaus and offers jungle canoe expeditions and eco-lodge stays for intimate Amazon experiences.

Things to do

• Pink River Dolphin Spotting — Take guided boat tours at dawn or dusk to observe boto rosa (pink river dolphins) hunting and playing in the Rio Negro's dark waters, often approaching boats out of curiosity.
• Flooded Forest Canoe Expeditions — Paddle through igapó (seasonally flooded forests) during high water season to navigate between submerged trees and spot wildlife including sloths, macaws, and caiman.
• Lago Juma Exploration — Visit this expansive freshwater lake within the archipelago to fish for piranhas, swim in natural pools, and observe aquatic birds and giant water lilies.
• Praia da Lua Beach Walk — Explore pristine white-sand beaches that emerge during low water season, perfect for swimming and picnicking while surrounded by jungle.
• Night Jungle Trek — Join nocturnal guided walks through the forest to encounter frogs, insects, and nocturnal mammals while learning about the ecosystem's nighttime activity.
• Indigenous Community Visits — Meet Waura and other indigenous groups living sustainably within the archipelago to learn about traditional hunting, fishing, and medicinal plant knowledge.
• Fish Eagle Watching — Observe harpy eagles and other raptors hunting along the river channels, particularly effective from elevated eco-lodge platforms.

Food to try

• Pirarucu de Casaca — A traditional Amazonian dish of salted pirarucu fish layered with cassava flour, onions, and spices, reflecting centuries of regional fishing heritage.
• Açai Bowls with Fresh Fruits — Local açai berries harvested from the archipelago blended into bowls and topped with regional fruits like guarana and cupuaçu, energizing for morning boat tours.
• Tacacá — A hot shrimp and cassava broth soup flavored with jambu leaves and garlic, served in traditional gourds and eaten as a light afternoon snack by locals.
• Grilled Tambaqui — Fresh-caught tambaqui fish from the Rio Negro grilled whole with lime and regional spices, often served family-style at eco-lodges with river views.
• Jambu-Infused Dishes — Local preparations using jambu leaves that create a numbing, peppery sensation unique to the Amazon region, used in fish soups and meat dishes.
• Tucupi Duck — Duck cooked in tucupi sauce (made from grated cassava root) with yellow peppers and traditional spices, a festive dinner staple in riverside communities.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Quiet Hours and Wildlife Rhythms — Most tour operators maintain silence during early morning and dusk wildlife viewing to avoid disturbing animals; visitors should follow guide instructions strictly for optimal experiences.
• Ask Permission Before Photographing Indigenous People — When visiting indigenous communities, always ask explicit permission before taking photographs of residents or their cultural practices, as many prefer privacy.
• Pack Rain Gear Year-Round — The archipelago experiences frequent rain even in dry season; waterproof bags, rain jackets, and quick-dry clothing are essential for comfort and equipment protection.
• Support Local Guides and Eco-Tourism Businesses — Choose tours and lodges that employ local residents and practice sustainable practices, as your spending directly supports conservation and community welfare.