Unlike no other place on earth, the Amazon rainforest is a bucket list destination for many people. Going on weekend breaks to Italy or venturing across the other side of the world to New Zealand is understandably appealing, but none of it compares to an immersive experience in nature. It isn’t just any old nature-filled setting either and represents one of the ultimate adventures on this beautiful planet of ours.
Of course, this type of adventure-filled holiday isn’t for everyone and certainly appeals to nature lovers and any outdoor adventurers among us, but it shouldn’t put people who prefer big cities and hotel comforts off. The idea simply doesn’t appeal to some holidaymakers, though, instead preferring to lounge around the pool with a Caipirinha in hand and the opportunity to sample the beautiful Amazon forest through slot games like Amazon Wild. For others, the array of flora and fauna is impossible to ignore and represents the holiday of a lifetime. There are so many rainforest activities visitors can enjoy to make their experience even more memorable, too. Below is a look at five of them.
Swim with pink river Dolphins
A lot of people have the dream of swimming with dolphins, but not many have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the pink variety of this amazing and highly intelligent animal. Unique to the Amazon and Orinoco rivers in South America, you can enter their habitat as you gain access via a floating pier during one of the many river cruises in Brazil.
Take a walk through the jungle
In order to gain an authentic experience of jungle life, it’s worth ditching the boat and taking a hike through the jungle. Exposing yourself to a range of wildlife such as anaconda snakes, poison dart frogs, pineapple flowers and a range of amazing birds, you’ll struggle to better this type of experience anywhere else on the planet. Be sure to pack your binoculars, though.
Visit the Manatee Rescue Centre
Many of the popular river cruise providers include visiting the Manatee Rescue Centre as part of the overall package, and it’s certainly something well worth doing, particularly for any animal lovers among us. The centre specialises in rescuing young manatees from the pet trade, with the heroic staff raising them instead before they’re able to be released back into the wild. Alongside being able to feed them, you can also see sloths, anteaters, monkeys, and a range of other animals.
Piranha fishing
One of the most popular activities to enjoy in the Amazon, catching some of the 20 different species of piranha fish in the river is a great deal of fun. There are some misconceptions surrounding these supposed flesh-eating creatures. But in reality, most of them are omnivorous or entirely vegetarian. Even if fishing isn’t necessarily your bag, the overall package is excellent, especially as you get to travel in a traditional wooden rode and get closer to arguably the most famous river on the planet.
Visit a local community
Away from the incredible wildlife on offer, it’s important to understand the way of life in such a unique location. A great way of doing this is by visiting a local Amazonian community where you can interact with friendly locals and learn about what life entails and the beliefs and customs they subscribe to. Along the way, you might also be treated to a school visit, a traditional dance, some local cuisine, an array of beautiful handicrafts, and a whole lot more. After all, to be able to fully understand a place, you have to meet its people.
