The Amazon Rainforest is an adventure like no other. Imagine stepping into a living, breathing jungle, where every sound feels alive and every sight is a new discovery. Towering trees, endless greenery, and creatures you’ve only seen in nature documentaries—it’s the kind of place that feels wild, raw, and truly untamed.
Having explored this vast ecosystem myself, I can tell you—it’s a world of wonders. From kayaking through the winding rivers of the Rio Negro to visiting the iconic Meeting of the Waters and meeting indigenous communities that are the heartbeat of the forest. Let’s dive into these 12 amazing things to do in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest!
Best Things to Do in the Amazon Rainforest
Ready to explore the Amazon Rainforest? From vibrant ecosystems teeming with unique wildlife to treks through lush terrain and encounters with indigenous cultures, this destination offers unforgettable adventures. Discover the top attractions in the Amazon Rainforest and immerse yourself in its wonders!
1. River Cruise Adventure
Exploring the Amazon Rainforest by river cruise offers a front-row seat to its incredible biodiversity. As the boat moves along the Amazon River or Rio Negro, you’ll spot pink river dolphins surfacing, macaws flying overhead, and caimans lurking along the banks.
I took a multi-day cruise through Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in Peru, and the variety of wildlife was stunning. One morning, I woke up to the sound of howler monkeys in the distance, a reminder that the jungle never sleeps. Some cruises also stop at indigenous villages, where locals share traditional practices like medicinal plant use and handwoven crafts.
For an immersive experience, cruises in Manú National Park in Peru or Mamirauá Reserve in Brazil take you deep into protected areas. Whether watching the sunset reflect off the river or drifting past untouched jungle, a river cruise reveals the Amazon’s wild beauty at every turn.
2. The Meeting of the Waters
The Meeting of the Waters near Manaus, Brazil, is a natural wonder where the Rio Negro and Solimões River run side by side for miles without mixing. The stark color contrast—one dark and one sandy—creates a dramatic sight best viewed by boat.
On a guided tour, I dipped my hand into the water and felt the temperature shift between the two currents, a cool reminder of the forces at play. The unique density and speed differences keep the rivers separate for nearly six kilometers before merging into the Amazon River.
Many tours combine this stop with a visit to Janauari Ecological Park, home to giant water lilies and diverse wildlife. For the best experience, visit in the morning when the lighting enhances the river’s striking division. It’s an easy day trip from Manaus and a must-see for anyone exploring the region.
3. Amazon’s Canopy Adventures
Seeing the Amazon from above offers a completely different perspective. Ziplining and canopy walkways bring you eye-level with toucans, monkeys, and other wildlife hidden in the treetops.
I tried the Canopy Walkway at Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica in Peru, and the view was unforgettable. Suspended high above the forest floor, the bridges connected massive trees, making it feel like walking through a hidden world. For a more thrilling experience, ziplining in Leticia, Colombia, lets you soar over the dense jungle at exhilarating speeds.
Many lodges near Iquitos, Peru, also offer canopy experiences, with guided walks that highlight the importance of the upper rainforest ecosystem. Sunrise or sunset visits provide the best wildlife activity, with macaws, sloths, and even tiny frogs making appearances. Whether walking or flying through the treetops, the Amazon’s canopy is a must-see.
4. Pink Dolphins of the Amazon
Spotting pink river dolphins is one of the most unique experiences in the Amazon. These freshwater dolphins, known as boto, are commonly found in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in Peru and the Rio Negro in Brazil.
During a boat tour, I watched as a group of dolphins surfaced near our canoe, their pale pink bodies gliding effortlessly through the water. Local guides shared legends about these creatures, including stories of them shapeshifting into humans at night. Ethical tour operators offer responsible viewing experiences, ensuring these dolphins remain undisturbed in their habitat.
For the best chance of seeing them, visit during the wet season (December–May) when water levels rise, allowing the dolphins to navigate deeper into the flooded forest. Whether from a canoe or a river cruise, witnessing these rare animals up close is a highlight of any Amazon trip.
5. Amazonian Tribes
Meeting indigenous communities in the Amazon offers a rare glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Tribes like the Yanomami, Ticuna, and Kayapo have lived in harmony with the rainforest for generations, using its resources for food, medicine, and shelter.
During a guided visit to a Ticuna village near Leticia, Colombia, I learned how they use plants for healing and saw intricate handwoven crafts. Some communities welcome visitors to experience daily life, from making cassava bread to participating in traditional ceremonies.
For an authentic and respectful experience, opt for tours that support indigenous-led initiatives, such as those in Xixuaú Reserve in Brazil or Yasuní National Park in Ecuador. These visits highlight the importance of preserving both the rainforest and its cultures. Connecting with these communities reminds travelers that the Amazon isn’t just about wildlife—it’s also home to people with incredible knowledge of the land.
6. Amazonian Trails
Hiking through the Amazon is an adventure that puts you face-to-face with its raw beauty. Guided jungle treks in Tambopata National Reserve in Peru or Madidi National Park in Bolivia reveal medicinal plants, hidden wildlife, and towering trees that have stood for centuries.
On a morning trek near Puerto Maldonado, our guide pointed out tiny poison dart frogs camouflaged in the undergrowth and showed us how locals use tree bark for natural remedies. The dense humidity, buzzing insects, and constant rustling remind you that the jungle is always alive.
Night hikes offer a completely different experience, with glowing scorpions, massive tarantulas, and the eerie calls of nocturnal creatures. Proper boots and insect repellent are essential, but the reward is worth it—trekking through the Amazon is an unforgettable way to explore one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
7. Amazon at Night
The Amazon transforms after sunset, revealing a world rarely seen during the day. Night safaris or guided walks in Tambopata National Reserve in Peru or Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve in Ecuador bring you up close to the rainforest’s nocturnal life.
During a boat tour near Iquitos, Peru, our guide shined a flashlight along the riverbank, revealing the glowing eyes of caimans lurking in the water. The jungle buzzed with unfamiliar sounds—chirping frogs, rustling leaves, and distant howler monkeys creating an eerie yet mesmerizing atmosphere.
Spotting bioluminescent insects, giant tarantulas, or a slow-moving sloth under the moonlight adds to the thrill. Some tours even let you see scorpions glowing under UV light. A night adventure in the Amazon isn’t just about what you see—it’s about experiencing the rainforest’s mysteries in a way that daytime excursions can’t offer.
8. Amazon Rainforest Birdwatching
With over 1,300 bird species, the Amazon is a paradise for birdwatchers. From vibrant macaws to the elusive harpy eagle, every sighting is a chance to witness nature’s most fascinating creatures.
I visited the Canopy Tower in Yasuni National Park, Ecuador, where at sunrise, hundreds of parrots and toucans filled the sky in a colorful display. Birdwatching lodges in Tambopata, Peru, and the Pantanal region in Brazil offer incredible viewing platforms and expert guides who can spot rare species from a distance.
For a unique experience, head to clay licks in Manu National Park, where parrots and macaws gather to feed on mineral-rich soil. Bringing binoculars is essential, as many birds blend perfectly into their surroundings. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or just curious, the Amazon’s birdlife is one of its most stunning highlights.
9. Amazon Rainforest at Dawn
Dawn in the Amazon is unlike anywhere else—the moment the jungle wakes up, filling the air with a symphony of birds, monkeys, and insects. The best way to experience it is by canoeing through the flooded forests of Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in Peru or taking a morning trek in Madre de Dios, Peru.
One morning, as our boat drifted along the Yasuní River, mist curled over the water while pink dolphins surfaced nearby. The calls of howler monkeys echoed through the trees, making it feel like stepping into another world.
Many eco-lodges offer sunrise excursions, where guides help spot sloths waking up in the treetops and exotic birds starting their day. Early mornings provide the best wildlife sightings, so setting out before sunrise is worth the effort. Whether on foot or by boat, experiencing the Amazon at dawn is a moment of pure magic.
10. Amazon’s Tranquil Waterways
Paddling through the Amazon’s flooded forests and quiet tributaries is one of the most peaceful ways to experience the rainforest. Kayaking or canoeing in Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in Peru or the Mamori River in Brazil lets you glide past giant water lilies, dense jungle, and the occasional splash of a fish jumping nearby.
I took a canoe trip at dawn near Lake Sandoval in Peru, where the still waters reflected the towering trees around us. The only sounds were the distant calls of howler monkeys and the rhythmic dipping of paddles in the water. Some guided excursions focus on spotting giant otters, caimans, and rare bird species up close.
For a unique experience, visit during the wet season (December–May) when water levels rise, creating mirror-like waterways that extend deep into the jungle. Whether paddling solo or joining a tour, the Amazon’s rivers offer a serene, immersive way to explore.
11. Amazonian Lagoons
Hidden within the rainforest, the Amazon’s lagoons are a haven for wildlife. These still, reflective waters are home to giant otters, black caimans, and flocks of macaws, making them a must-visit for nature lovers.
During a boat ride on Lake Tarapoto in Colombia, I watched a group of giant river otters hunting for fish, their playful movements breaking the glassy surface. The Oxbow Lakes in Tambopata, Peru, are another hotspot where capybaras, herons, and even jaguars are sometimes seen along the shores.
Many guided tours offer sunrise and sunset excursions, the best times to spot wildlife as they emerge to hunt or drink from the water’s edge. For photographers, the reflection of the jungle in the still lagoons makes for incredible shots. A visit to these quiet, wildlife-rich waters is an essential part of exploring the Amazon.
12. Amazon’s Medicinal Plants
The Amazon isn’t just a rainforest—it’s a living pharmacy. Indigenous communities have used its plants for centuries to treat illnesses, and guided tours reveal the powerful natural remedies hidden within the jungle.
I joined a medicinal plant walk near Puerto Maldonado, where a local guide explained how sangre de drago (dragon’s blood) is used to heal wounds and how the quinine tree treats malaria. In Yasuní National Park, Ecuador, shamans demonstrate traditional healing practices, showing how bark, roots, and leaves are combined into effective medicines.
Many of these plants are now studied for modern medicine, making it even more fascinating to see them in their natural habitat. Ethical tours, such as those in Tambopata National Reserve, provide an opportunity to learn from indigenous healers while supporting conservation efforts. Exploring the rainforest’s medicinal plants is a reminder of how much the Amazon still has to teach the world.
