How to Tour the Amazon River in Brazil

The Amazon River runs roughly 4,000 miles across much of the width of South America. The rain forest surrounding it is the largest of its kind in the world. It is home a wide variety of exotic plants and animals. Taking a tour through this stunning environment is a awe inspiring experience.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Insect repellent
• Camera

1. Travel to Manaus, Brazil. It is a popular starting point for trips down the Amazon.

2. Do some research once you get to Manaus. There are a good number of cruises that let you gently see the scenery. There are also smaller tour ships that let you get up close and personal with the rain forest setting.

3. Prepare yourself for the trip by gathering information on the plants and animals. This area boasts one of the largest variety of species in the world.

4. Consider taking a detour to see the Inca Amazon Trail. The ancient Inca civilization created some of the most breathtaking monuments and pyramids on the planet.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to stop at some of the small villages along the river. You can buy some native items and get a feel for the lives of people who live in the rain forest.
• Stay safe. Do not wander far from your guide or others.
• Be prepared for the insects.

[humanx]

on 6/5/2007 I read that the Amazon river is responsible for about 1/5 of all of the world's fresh water that flows into the ocean each year. There's something sacred about this place, from the biologically rich surroundings to the people that live there.