Frommer's Review
If you want to really explore the jungle, this is the company to go with. Amazon Mystery has the skills and experience to bring you deep into the rainforest, make your time there safe, fun, and informative, and then get you back to town again. The company's core adventure is kayak descents of Amazon tributary rivers upstream of Manaus. A typical day includes a few hours of paddling, followed by a delicious lunch of fresh fish, followed by a hike to a waterfall or hidden cavern that few have ever seen. At night, you head out with a spotlight to search for caiman or other jungle creatures. The company's regular guide is a Tucano Indian with an extensive traditional knowledge of Amazon plants and animals. Participants need a basic level of physical ability -- for example, you should be able to hike and paddle a small boat -- but no special skills. The camping is very comfortable, the food is excellent (always important), and the company knows to bring along the little extras like folding chairs that make camping civilized. You sleep in hammocks. At present, Amazon Mystery has 6- and 7-day descents of the Rio Urubu, 4- and 5-day descents along Rio Tupanâ, and 8- and 10-day descents on the Rio Jatapu. However, the owner is always exploring new territory, so it's a good idea to check the website. On many trips there's also tree climbing, where you hoist yourself 60m or 70m (196-230 ft.) up into the rainforest canopy the way researchers do. This is truly magic.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
