Extreme Travel
Have you heard of extreme travel? It's a fascinating form of tourism that revolves around thrilling and daring activities. Picture this: adventurers embark on journeys that are deemed dangerous, physically demanding, or incredibly challenging. They're in pursuit of that exhilarating rush, the feeling of triumph, or simply the chance to witness something truly extraordinary. And guess what? The Amazon Rainforest in Brazil happens to be a favorite hotspot for these intrepid explorers.
The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, covering an area of over 2 million square miles. It is home to an estimated 10% of all known species on the planet, including countless plants, animals, and insects. The rainforest is also home to a number of indigenous communities, who have lived in the region for centuries.
The Amazon holds a mythical allure for travelers seeking the wonders of the natural world. Its towering trees, enigmatic wildlife, and majestic river captivate the imagination, offering a glimpse into the very essence of life on Earth.
The Amazon, with its fascinating tales of fish leaping from trees to feed, mythical pottery, and formidable women with braided hair, has captivated explorers since its discovery. These enchanting elements contributed to the creation of its magnificent name, solidifying its status as the greatest wonder of the natural world.
However, those who anticipate a sensationalized, Discovery Channel-style adventure may find themselves disappointed. The true essence of the Amazon lies in its subtle, awe-inspiring experiences: gliding along the water in a canoe amidst a flooded forest, swaying gently in a hammock aboard a boat as it traverses the winding river, and awakening to the haunting calls of howler monkeys. Amidst the immensity of this legendary river, it is the small marvels that truly make the Amazon special. Patience is key, for in due time, the Amazon reveals itself as all of this and more, an extraordinary tapestry of nature's wonders waiting to be explored.
Best time to visit the Amazon Rainforest
While tropical rainforests, including the Amazon, receive rainfall throughout the year, however, in the Amazon, there are two notable seasons to keep in mind when planning your trip.
High water season
Lasting from March to August the rainfall is strongest from February to April. The River Amazon and River Negro experience a significant rise in water levels, reaching up to 10 meters higher than in the low-water season. This season offers advantages such as navigable areas by boat, trees bearing edible fruits and flowers, and increased wildlife activity.
Low water season
Lasting from September to February, this season has the least amount of rainfall. The water levels in the River Amazon and its tributaries drop around 10 meters during this time. This allows for easier exploration on foot as flooded trails become accessible again. It's also a favorable season for spotting snakes, lizards, and fish, with fewer mosquitoes around.
Here are some of the things you can do in the Amazon rainforest:
Go on a wildlife safari:
The Amazon rainforest is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, snakes, and birds. There are a number of tour operators that offer wildlife safaris, which allow you to see these animals in their natural habitat. Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including caimans, pink dolphins, and monkeys. There are a number of trails that lead through the rainforest, and you can often see wildlife along the way.
Visit an indigenous community:
There are a number of indigenous communities living in the Amazon rainforest. These communities have their own unique cultures and traditions, and they are often willing to share their way of life with visitors. Some of the communities are:
The Yanomami are one of the largest indigenous groups in the Amazon rainforest. They live in a remote area of the rainforest on the border between Brazil and Venezuela. They are known for their traditional way of life, which includes hunting, fishing, and gathering. They also practice a form of slash-and-burn agriculture.
The Kayapó are another large indigenous group in the Amazon rainforest. They live in an area of the rainforest that is known for its beautiful waterfalls and wildlife. They are known for their skill in handicrafts, such as basket weaving and pottery. They are also known for their warrior culture.
Go hiking or trekking:
The Amazon rainforest is a great place to go hiking or trekking. There are a number of trails that lead through the rainforest, and you can often see wildlife along the way.
Tambopata National Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, snakes, and birds. There are a number of trails that lead through the rainforest, and you can often see wildlife along the way. One can also trek in Mamiraua Sustainable Development Reserve which is home to a number of indigenous communities. For a more picturesque hike, head to the Jau National Park which is home to a number of waterfalls and lakes, and you can go swimming, boating, and fishing.
Go whitewater rafting:
The Amazon rainforest is home to a number of rivers that are perfect for whitewater rafting. This is a great way to experience the power of the river and the beauty of the rainforest.
Go fishing:
The Amazon rainforest is home to a variety of fish, and fishing is a popular activity for visitors. You can fish from the shore or from a boat, and you may even catch a piranha. the Jau National Park is the best spot to enjoy fishing activities.
Go birdwatching:
The Amazon rainforest is home to an incredible variety of birds, and birdwatching is a popular activity for visitors. You can see a variety of birds, including toucans, macaws, and hummingbirds.
Stay in the Amazon
1. Rio Roosevelt lodge
Experience this awe-inspiring journey at the secluded Rio Roosevelt Lodge, where you can indulge in the splendor of the region while being surrounded by the remote wilderness.
2. Ucari Floating lodge
Nestled within the Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserves—an extraordinary region of the Amazon acknowledged by UNESCO—you'll find the Uacari Floating Lodge. This remarkable lodge offers an ideal base for exploration, providing numerous opportunities to witness the abundant wildlife and engage with the local communities.
3. Macolas Jungle Lodge
Located deep within the Amazon Forest, just 120 km away from Manaus and nestled alongside the Rio Preto da Eva River, the Maloca Jungle Lodge offers modest lodging options in traditional indigenous-style huts.
How to travel to the Amazon Rainforest
If you're an adventure and thrill seeker and wish to feed that hunger by heading to the Amazon Rainforest, here are some ways you can reach this adrenaline rushed destination from India:
1. The cheapest way is to fly to Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state. Flights from Delhi to Manaus start at around ₹47,000. From Manaus, you can take a boat or bus to the rainforest.
2. A more expensive option is to take a direct flight to Iquitos, Peru, which is another gateway to the Amazon. Flights from Delhi to Iquitos start at around ₹65,000.
Once you arrive in Manaus or Iquitos, you will need to find a way to get to the rainforest. There are a number of tour operators that offer packages that include transportation, accommodation, and activities. Prices for these packages vary depending on the length of the trip and the level of luxury you are looking for.
Overall, the cost of a trip to the Amazon rainforest from India will vary depending on your travel choices. A budget-friendly trip for 4 days and 3 nights will cost around ₹1,00,000, while a more luxurious trip for 7 days and 6 nights could cost upwards of ₹2,00,000.
Tourism in the Amazon Rainforest
Tourism in the Amazon rainforest has declined significantly since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, there were an estimated 1.5 million visitors to the Amazon rainforest, down from 2 million in 2019. However, there are some signs that tourism in the Amazon rainforest is starting to recover. In the first quarter of 2023, there were an estimated 100,000 visitors to the Amazon rainforest, up from 50,000 in the same period in 2022. This increase in tourism is being driven by a number of factors, including the easing of travel restrictions, the growing popularity of ecotourism, and the increasing awareness of the importance of protecting the Amazon rainforest.
Facts about the Amazon forest region
- The Amazon River was originally called Rio Icamiabas by the natives. This name means "women living without men," like the mythical Amazons.
- The Rio Negro, a tributary of the Amazon River, has more water than all the fresh water in Europe.
- Sharks and other sea fish have been found in the Amazon River, up to 400 kilometers upstream.
- Marajó Island is not an island, but an archipelago of about 2,000 islands. It is larger than Switzerland.
- The largest river archipelago in the world is Mariuá, located in the Rio Negro. It is made up of over 700 islands.
- The second largest freshwater archipelago in the world is the Anavilhanas Archipelago. It is located in the state of Amazonas and consists of about 400 islands.
Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when planning your trip to the Amazon rainforest:
1. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from June to September.
2. Be sure to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
3. Wear comfortable shoes that you can get wet.
4. Be prepared for the heat and humidity.
5. Be aware of the dangers of the rainforest, such as poisonous snakes and plants.
6. Respect the environment and the indigenous communities.