Manaus, capital of the state of Amazonas, is located in the middle of the largest tropical forest in the world, the Amazon Forest. The city is full of singularities ranging from its complex biodiversity to the hustle and bustle of urban life with its streets surrounded by historic buildings.
Another charm of Manaus is its wealth of cultural manifestations, which are complemented by slang, customs, cuisine, and architecture.
The culture and natural charms, such as the meeting of the waters, make Manaus the destination for many tourists year-round, anonymous or famous — such as presenter Ana Hickmann, former BBB Kerline Cardoso, singer Aline Wirley and her husband, the actor Igor Rickli.
What to do in Manaus
For those who wish to travel by land or by water (river tour), the capital of Amazonas has a wide list of options, including grandiose buildings — which hark back to the period known as the Rubber Cycle — such as the Teatro Amazonas and the Adolpho Lisbon Municipal Market.
Other famous buildings are the Palácio Rio Negro Cultural Center, the São Sebastião Church and the Provincial Palace. The gastronomic part of the city is also unique, rich in fish and regional fruits – which can be found at more affordable prices compared to other states. Manaus nightlife is also quite lively, with a wide range of bars, pubs and nightclubs spread across the city.
Amazon Theater
Opened in 1896, it is a true symbol of Manaus’ golden age. Its architecture was influenced by famous Renaissance works. It currently serves as a stage for various cultural events and its large historical collection makes it one of the most valued tourist attractions in the capital.Advertising
Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market
Also known simply as “Mercadão”, its construction was inspired by the old Parisian market Les Halles. The facade is decorated in the art nouveau style, and its iron structure was designed by the same engineer responsible for the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Gustavo Eiffel.
At Mercadão you can find various regional products, from fish, fruits, spices and local crafts.
Rio Negro Palace Cultural Center
Former headquarters of the Amazon government, it was transformed into a Cultural Center with various attractions and activities open to the public. It has permanent and temporary exhibitions, book launches and the collection of former state governments.
For those who want to know more about the history, not just of Manaus, but of the entire state of Amazonas, Palácio Rio Negro is one of the essential stops.
Saint Sebastian and Saint Francis of Assisi Church
The church was built in 1859, following inspiration from Gothic, neoclassical and Renaissance arts. It was opened in 1888 and is an essential building for any tourist, especially for those looking for religious tourism.
Provincial Palace
Located in the Historic Center of Manaus, it is a building that has left its mark on local politics. It was opened in 1875, has served as the seat of government, residence of the president of the Province of Amazonas, Barracks for the state’s Military Police and currently serves as the Amazonas State Secretariat of Culture. It is open to the public and visiting is free. There, visitors can check out the collections and cultural events.
Palace of Justice Cultural Center
Opened in 1900, today the Palace of Justice is inspired by the Renaissance style. It was once the seat of the state’s Judiciary and has symbols of local politics. Currently, the space hosts a series of cultural events and exhibitions open to the public.
The Nature of Manaus
Ponta Negra Beach
Beach with hot sand and warm water, it is a great place to relax and one of the most frequented spots by locals and tourists, especially on weekends. Among its attractions are a gazebo, a fountain, spaces for shows, and much more.
The extensive strip of sand is on the banks of the Rio Negro and is a good choice for those who want to have a picnic with family and friends. It is a great place to enjoy water activities and practice sports. There is a wide promenade and sports courts there.
Anavilhanas National Park
In the Anavilhanas Archipelago, on the Rio Negro, the National Park is the place where you can go diving with the red dolphins, which is one of the park’s main attractions, among other natural charms.
There is no need to pay a ticket or ask for prior authorization to enter the park. However, there is an entrance fee for Flutuante dos Botos as it is private property.
Meeting of the Waters
Located about 18 kilometers from Manaus, it is a natural phenomenon caused by the meeting of the dark waters of the Rio Negro with the muddy waters of the Rio Solimões. What is impressive is that a strip forms, highlighting the limit between the two rivers, which do not mix.
It is possible to get closer to the site on a boat trip. In fact, one of the main activities is to take a boat tour along the Amazon River, exploring incredible landscapes of the Brazilian part of the rainforest, as well as getting to know more about the wildlife and riverside communities.
Seringal Vila Paraíso Museum
This open-air museum explores the history of the Rubber Era. When visiting it, tourists can experience up close what life was like on rubber plantations (the tree from which the raw material for rubber is extracted) at the height of their trade.
Adolpho Ducke Botanical Garden
Located in the middle of native forest, the Botanical Garden is considered a true jewel of Amazonian biodiversity. It is a mandatory stop for tourists who want to learn more about the region’s fauna and flora.
Where to stay
Hotel Colors Manaus
300 meters from Teatro Amazonas, it offers air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom. The property offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi throughout the property. Daily rates from R$195.
Quality Hotel Manaus
Located in the Adrianópolis neighborhood (5 km from the Center of Manaus), next to Manauara Shopping and close to the financial center of Manaus. It offers modern rooms with LCD TV, cable channels and free internet, as well as an outdoor pool. Daily rates from R$490.
Tropical Executive Hotel
Located in the Ponta Negra neighborhood, the hotel offers room options with views of the river, as well as a swimming pool with a beautiful view of nature. Daily rates start at R$682.
Hotel Villa Amazônia
5-star hotel, with swimming pool, restaurant, gym and garden, is located just 70 meters from the Palace of Justice. It has a terrace and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a private bathroom. Daily rates from R$2,454.
Juma Ópera Boutique Hotel & Spa
The 5-star hotel offers a gym, garden, terrace and restaurant in Manaus. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property. Daily rates from R$2,646.
* Hotel search carried out by the Booking.com platform on 03/22/2024. The values reported do not include possible fees.
