The Amazon Rainforest is located in 9 different countries but the majority of it (around 60%) is located in Brazil. The rest of it can be found in Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana (which is technically an overseas territory). While in theory, you have 9 different places to experience the Amazon, realistically those who want to explore the rainforest by riverboat or luxurious lodge stay will want to base themselves in one of the following three countries: Brazil, Peru, or Ecuador.
Being the largest rainforest on the planet (and home to one of the largest river systems in the world), it should come as no surprise that the Amazon covers a hefty chunk of South America. This gigantic patch of natural beauty stretches itself over a staggering 2.1 million square miles and has earned its place on many a bucket list. From trekking through the thick swathes of lush greenery to cruising along the mighty Amazon River, a trip to the Amazon rainforest is a fully immersive natural experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.
So how do these various destinations differ and which locations make the best jumping-off points for getting a taste of the Amazon Rainforest? Read on to learn the answers to these questions and more.
Manaus Harbor, Brazil
With 60% of the Amazon Rainforest spreading itself over the western and central parts of the country, Brazil is what comes to mind first when planning a trip to the Amazon. Generally, Brazil Amazon tours into the rainforest will kick off in Manaus, the most populous city in the Brazilian Amazon region. From here, you will be able to hop on a Brazillian cruise along the mighty Amazon River in search of some of the forest’s wonderful wildlife. From Manaus, you will be able to check out other amazing places such as the Lago Janauari Ecological Park, Jaú National Park, and the Anavilhanas Archipelago. You will also get the chance to witness the unique spectacle of the Meeting of the Waters. This is where the black water of the Rio Negro meets the sandy colored water of the Rio Solimões.
Central Park In Iquitos City, Peru
The land of llamas, Peru boasts a large part of the Amazon and is a great country to use as your base as you can often combine your rainforest adventure with a trip to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu. Most Amazonian tours in Peru will start in the city of Iquitos, a thriving metropolis that can only be reached by air or water – making it the largest city in the world that has no road access. Here, you will be surrounded by untamed rainforest, charming wooden canoes, and a distinctly ‘jungle’ vibe. You can also spend a few hours exploring the floating markets of Belén whilst you’re there. Other places worth visiting for a taste of the Peruvian Amazon are Nauta, Puerto Maldonado, and the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.
Sunset In The Amazon River, Yasuni National Park, Ecuador
Exceptionally diverse and staggeringly beautiful, Ecuador is yet another fantastic place to start your journey into the heart of the Amazon. While this destination is less popular than Brazil and Peru, it still has a lot to offer and the reduced number of tourists can be a real blessing – especially when it comes to enjoying the serenity of the inner jungle. There is certainly no shortage of wildlife in Ecuador, despite it being one of the smaller countries on the continent.
Amazon cruises in Ecuador will stop off at the Yasuni National Park and the Cuyabeno Reserve, allowing its passengers to get a good look at the hundreds of different animal and bird species that call this region home. Coca is the gateway to Ecuador’s portion of the Amazon and it is located at the confluence of the Coca and Napo Rivers. This is where most tours will start. You can also combine your Amazon cruise with a Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour, for the ultimate dream vacation.
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