Rio Negro

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Rio Negro's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Manaus
morning
:

Begin your adventure in Manaus, the gateway to the Amazon. Visit the famous Teatro Amazonas, a stunning opera house that showcases the city’s rich cultural history. Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful riverside promenade, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, delve deeper into the local culture with a visit to the Mercado Municipal, where you can taste exotic fruits and local delicacies. Spend some time exploring the nearby museums, such as the Museu do Seringal, to learn about the rubber boom era. End your day at a local café, enjoying Brazilian coffee while people-watching.

evening
:

As night falls, prepare for an evening of traditional Amazonian cuisine at a local restaurant. Try dishes made with fresh fish from the Rio Negro, accompanied by lively music and dance performances. Sip on a caipirinha while enjoying the warm tropical air.

day 2
Meeting the Amazon River
morning
:

Set out early for a boat tour on the Amazon River, experiencing the majestic rivers that converge in this region. Marvel at the lush greenery and diverse wildlife as you glide through the waterways. Stop at small riverside communities to see how locals live and fish sustainably.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Encontro das Águas, where the dark waters of the Rio Negro meet the sandy waters of the Amazon River, creating a stunning visual contrast. Learn about the unique ecosystems that thrive in this confluence, with expert guides explaining the local flora and fauna. Take the opportunity to swim in the refreshing waters or join in on a fishing expedition.

evening
:

Return to Manaus for an evening of relaxation after an adventurous day. Choose a casual dining spot for dinner, where you can try more local specialties. Conclude the night with a captivating sunset view from the riverbank, watching the sky transition to stars.

day 3
Journey to the Jungle Lodge
morning
:

Travel by boat to your chosen jungle lodge, nestled in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. As you navigate the waterways, keep an eye out for wildlife such as pink river dolphins and sloths. Arrive at the lodge and settle in, ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided jungle trek through the vibrant rainforest. Discover medicinal plants, towering trees, and the sounds of various rain-dwelling creatures with your knowledgeable guide. Learn how indigenous communities have coexisted harmoniously with nature for centuries.

evening
:

As darkness settles in, enjoy a dinner surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Partake in a night tour, where you can witness the nocturnal beauty of the rainforest, from fireflies to the calls of owls and frogs. Reflect on your day's adventures over drinks at the lodge's open-air lounge.

day 4
Canoeing in the Amazon
morning
:

Wake up early for a canoeing adventure on the peaceful waterways of the Amazon. Paddle through narrow creeks, allowing serene moments of reflection as you navigate the still waters. Keep your camera ready for the wildlife that may cross your path, including monkeys and exotic birds.

afternoon
:

After returning to the lodge for lunch, take part in a fishing session using traditional techniques. Whether you catch piranhas or other native fish, the experience is a great way to connect with local fishing practices. Spend the afternoon learning about local fauna and flora during educational sessions led by your guides.

evening
:

End your day with a communal dinner showcasing locally sourced ingredients gathered from the jungle. Share your experiences of the day with fellow travelers around a cozy fire. As the stars shine above, partake in storytelling or enjoy traditional music and dance.

day 5
Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Rise early for a specialized birdwatching tour to catch sight of the countless avian species that inhabit the Amazon. With your guide, hike to prime viewpoints, where you can witness the extraordinary colors and songs of macaws and toucans. The morning air is filled with the sounds of nature awakening.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, engage in a wildlife spotting excursion with the chance to see monkeys, jaguars, and capybaras in their natural habitat. Your guide will share fascinating facts about each species you encounter, enriching your understanding of the ecosystem. Capture the moment with photographs as you watch these incredible creatures roam freely.

evening
:

Return to your lodge for an evening meal, sharing stories about the incredible animals you saw throughout the day. Take advantage of the opportunity to join a spotlighting night excursion for a chance to see nocturnal animals. Enjoy the camaraderie and excitement as everyone recounts their favorite moments.

day 6
Cultural Exchange with Indigenous Communities
morning
:

Today is dedicated to cultural exchange, beginning with a visit to a nearby indigenous community. Learn about traditional lifestyles, crafts, and practices, experiencing their hospitality firsthand. Participate in workshops where you can try your hand at traditional crafts or cooking.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the community, savoring flavors unique to their culture. Engage in discussions about their relationship with the land and efforts towards sustainability. In the afternoon, explore the village, discovering artifacts and stories that paint a picture of their rich heritage.

evening
:

As the sun sets, participate in an evening ceremony or gathering, where you can witness local dances and songs. Join in and celebrate, fostering a deeper understanding of their traditions. Reflect on this meaningful experience while enjoying dinner back at your lodge.

day 7
Exploring the Flooded Forest
morning
:

Prepare for an enchanting morning exploring the flooded forest, a unique ecosystem only accessible during certain seasons. Glide through the intricate waterways, absorbing the beauty of plants flourishing above the water’s surface. Listen to your guide explain the ecological significance of this remarkable environment.

afternoon
:

After a morning of discovery, enjoy lunch back at the lodge before heading out for an afternoon of relaxing exploration. Take life at a slower pace, perhaps opting for a hammock to enjoy a book or a nap in the shade. Engage with fellow travelers, sharing favorite moments from your adventure.

evening
:

Gather for dinner, where you can enjoy a special feast featuring local dishes. After dining, join a night hike or boat ride to see what the forest reveals when the sun goes down. Experience the thrill of nocturnal creatures awakening and adding to the symphony of the jungle.

day 8
Relaxation and Reflection
morning
:

Dedicate this morning to relaxation, enjoying the tranquil sounds of the rainforest while sipping your morning coffee. Take time to reflect on your journey thus far, perhaps journaling your thoughts or meditating in nature. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast made with local ingredients.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at leisure, choosing between relaxing at the lodge or engaging in light activities such as swimming or birdwatching. Alternatively, use this time to connect with the staff and understand their passion for conservation and tourism in the region. Take part in any community projects occurring nearby, contributing positively to the environment.

evening
:

Cap off your trip with a heartfelt farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships made and experiences shared. Share your thoughts with fellow travelers and recount favorite memories from your journey. Under the starlit Amazonian sky, take in the serene beauty while preparing for your journey home.

day 9
Departure
morning
:

After a final breakfast at the lodge, take a moment to soak in the beauty of the surrounding rainforest before beginning your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and the connections made during your stay. Pack your memories as you prepare to head back to Manaus.

afternoon
:

Travel back to Manaus, taking in the last glimpses of the Amazon landscape from the boat. Upon arrival, you may have some time for last-minute shopping for souvenirs or local crafts in Manaus. Enjoy a lunch in a charming local restaurant, reviewing your favorite moments.

evening
:

After a day filled with adventure and exploration, prepare for your flight home or onward travel. Cherish the lessons learned, the beauty experienced, and the unforgettable stories that will stay with you forever. As you board your flight, leave with a piece of the Amazon forest in your heart.

Discover Rio Negro

Read more in our Rio Negro 2025 Travel Guide.

Rio Negro Travel Guide