Mercado Ver-o-Peso: For 300 years, Belém’s fascinating riverside market has served as an essential and exotic link between this colonial capital and the jungle beyond.

Ilha de Marajó: Deserted beaches, exuberant vegetation, a centuries-old ceramics tradition, and thousands of water buffalo make this Switzerland-sized island an idyllic and intriguing retreat.

Alter do Chão: In the middle of the Amazon, Alter do Chão is a mini beach resort with sugary white sands and clear green waters.

Teatro Amazonas in Manaus: This sumptuous opera house in the middle of the jungle is a testament to the heyday of the Amazon’s rubber boom.

Jungle Lodges of the Amazon: There’s no better way to get a feel for the rainforest than by shacking up in its squawking, chirping, ribbeting depths.

Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável de Mamirauá: This sustainable eco-reserve is the hottest eco-spot along the Rio Solimões. Canoeing through the flooded forests in search of the red-faced uakari monkey is only one of the amazing activities available here.

Arquipélago de Anavilhanas: The largest freshwater archipelago in the world boasts more than 400 deserted islands, virgin rainforest, and the possibility of swimming with pink dolphins.

Riverboat Trips: Set sail upon the Rio Negro and Rio Solimões on a riverboat. Riverboat trips allow you to cover the most territory in the Amazon, while enjoying the comforts of its rustic or luxury accommodations, depending on your budget.