Manaus tours

Things to do in Manaus

In Manaus, Brazil, you find yourself in the midst of a living, breathing ecosystem where the Amazon rainforest seems to envelop every sense. It's a place that defies expectations, blending urban life with the untamed wild. With a local guide by your side, your exploration of Manaus transforms from mere tourism into an insightful journey into the Amazon's core. As the Rio Negro and Solimões rivers conjoin, their waters hint at the stories waiting to be discovered. Picture setting off on a boat, navigating deeper into the jungle, where the calls of wildlife resonate around you. Wander through the Teatro Amazonas, where the past lingers in every detail. When visiting the lively local markets, your guide helps you bypass the crowds, offering you a taste of exotic fruits that are as intriguing as they are flavourful. In Manaus, each experience is enriched with the narratives your guide weaves, turning the rainforest into a living storybook. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Manaus. Explore Manaus your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Manaus tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Manaus for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Track giant water lilies in the Janauari Ecological Park and paddle a quiet canoe route through igapó forest while your guide points out squirrel monkeys and three-toed sloths. Prefer terra firme? Hike short trails in the Adolpho Ducke Forest Reserve to learn how Brazil-nut trees, medicinal plants, and leafcutter ants shape the forest. Boat tours: Ride a private boat to the Meeting of the Waters, then idle past the floating village of Catalão to see pirarucu tanks and stop for grilled tambaqui at a floating restaurant. After sunset, your guide can lead a safe caiman-spotting tour by spotlight along calm creeks. Downtown is walkable around Teatro Amazonas and the riverside market, but sights are spread out and buses can be confusing; many tours pair walking with boats or cars. If you’d like easier logistics, ask your local guide about chauffeured tours or private transportation for waterfall and rainforest routes. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Manaus inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Manaus with a local expert, uncovering the city’s unique neighborhoods on your private walking tour. These areas offer a mix of culture, history, and local flavor for your itinerary. - Centro: The historic heart of Manaus, where you can find the iconic Teatro Amazonas and bustling markets. It's perfect for those interested in the city’s rich history and architecture. - Ponta Negra: Known for its beach and lively promenade, this neighborhood is ideal for families and those looking to enjoy recreational activities and scenic views of the Rio Negro. - Adrianópolis: A more upscale area with shopping centers and fine dining, catering to those who want a taste of modern Manaus. It's a great spot for shopping and enjoying contemporary cuisine. - São Raimundo: Offers a glimpse into local life with its traditional houses and vibrant community. Ideal for cultural tourists looking to experience the authentic side of Manaus. Day trip ideas from Manaus Use Manaus as your launch pad and slip out to nearby rivers, forests, and small towns on easy day trips that swap city noise for jungle soundscapes, with your tour shaped around what you like to see and do. Meeting of the Waters and Janauari Ecological Park: watch the dark Rio Negro run beside the sandy Solimões without mixing, then glide into flooded forest channels, look for birds and sloths, and walk boardwalks to see giant water lilies. If you like simple nature photography and calm boat time, this area fits. Presidente Figueiredo waterfalls: head north to swim in clear streams, walk short trails to falls like Iracema and Santuário, and cool off in natural pools; it suits you if you want a land-based day with light hiking and a relaxed lunch in a small town. Anavilhanas islands near Novo Airão: explore blackwater channels and islands, stop at sandy beaches in the dry season, and watch for pink river dolphins from a respectful distance; this longer day is good if you enjoy wild scenery and slow cruising far from traffic. Tupé and Praia da Lua river beaches: stay close to Manaus for a simple day on soft sand, canoe quiet inlets, and swim in tea‑coloured water; when levels are right, this is an easy break for families or anyone who wants an unhurried afternoon by the river. These day trips work well as private tours that keep your pace and interests front and centre. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Manaus most travellers miss.