Jungle Hikes and Canopy Walks

Most jungle lodges have their own jungle hikes—some even take guests out for overnight stays. The most interesting of the jungle walks are the ones that reach up into the high canopy, either using observation towers or suspended walkways. These are almost always associated with jungle lodges, who build their own structures in their piece of the jungle. Some of the best walkways are at the Ariaú Jungle Towers, the Juma Jungle Hotel, and the Guanavenas Jungle Lodge. The Amazon EcoResort also has suspended trails along with their extensive facilities for leisure activities. They accept day-use visitations. Finally, the Mindú Park also has suspended walkways that are open to visitors.

Hikes along the jungle floor should probably be guided, unless they are on the grounds of a jungle lodge or in one of the smaller city parks. These hikes are excellent for photo safaris and bird-watching. An interesting excursion is a hike out to one of the old seringais (rubber tree groves) still producing rubber for a specialized market. Night walks are usually not recommended; the best nocturnal excursions are by canoe or floating hotel. That being said, there are tours that take you out to sleep in the jungle. Generally, you bring a hammock and sleep between two trees. This special excursion can be an eerie experience for most city folk and you’ll need to bring some special items for the occasion.