This stop kicks off the Amazon adventure, primarily centered around the Negro River. The water here is naturally acidic, which keeps mosquito populations low—a real boon for tourists who can enjoy the experience without the constant irritation of bites. Anavilhanas Lodge is about a three-hour drive from Manaus (though later I discovered there’s also a seaplane option that cuts the journey to just 49 minutes 😂).
Nestled deep in the heart of the Amazon, the lodge offers an all-inclusive experience with food and daily activities covered. Personally, I think it’s excellent value for money.
When it comes to the food, the main courses are solid, but the appetizers and desserts are only mediocre. If I’m being honest, I still favor Nayara in Atacama, Chile, from a previous trip—the cuisine there was truly outstanding. While the meals here aren’t quite as memorable, they’re still commendable given we’re in the middle of the Amazon rainforest. It’s impressive what the chefs manage to pull off under such conditions.
Activities: The schedule is tailored based on how many days you stay. For reference, take a look at ZZ’s 5-day-4-night itinerary on the last page, featuring nighttime excursions, forest treks, piranha fishing, and even pink dolphin sightings. However, I learned that guests opting for a 5-night stay get access to a special cave expedition.
This adventure ventures deeper into the Amazon, involving a demanding hike through the jungle lasting five or six hours. It’s perfect for those with a taste for adventure. Unfortunately, ZZ only heard about this option upon arrival and missed out on the cave exploration.
One final tip: If you’re planning to indulge in a massage at the lodge, be sure to confirm whether the therapist will be male or female, as the default is male 😂. ZZ didn’t realize until the last minute that a male therapist had been assigned, leading to a last-minute cancellation—and even a penalty fee to boot…
