Chief of Baraçana village. Photo by Sandra Scott.

Less than one hour by boat from the modern city of Manaus, Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge is an excellent option for those who want a true jungle experience, without being housed on a boat or in an overcrowded hotel. Located on the River Tarumã, a tributary of the Negro River, the Lodge is the only one authorized by the Brazilian Government Environmental Agency, IBAMA, to maintain wild animals.

The Monkey Jungle immediately adjacent to the Ecopark, houses spider monkeys, squirrel monkeys, woolly monkeys and capuchin monkeys—many of them orphans rescued from forest fires and floods.

Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge offers 60 rustic rooms in 20 bungalows. Rooms are air-conditioned, but windows are also screened for those who prefer fresh air. There is plenty of hot water for showers. There is also a natural black water bathing pool, a private beach, a massage room, a game room, and six miles of jungle trails where you can see the flora and fauna up close.

Guests receive the personal attention of a forest guide provided by the Lodge. Activities include nature hikes, a boat excursion to the meeting of the waters, canoe trips, alligator spotting and piranha fishing. Seamless transfers are included in the price, as are all tours and meals.