The most popular Amazon activities
Hiking
One of the most popular things to do when at Amazon rainforest is hiking. In actual fact, hiking may not be the best word to describe it. Hiking gives the impression of hard terrain and lots of effort, but in this case that isn’t true. There isn’t any hacking out of paths through thick jungle either. The paths are already there and clearly marked. Due to the heat under the canopy and the need not to scare off the wildlife, ‘stroll’ would be a better word. Moving slowly and quietly along, will give you the chance view an abundance of the rainforest inhabitants.
Canopy towers
Observing the canopy activity from a canopy tower is a must for everyone, but especially birdwatchers. The view is magnificent and you can look out over the forest and see such birds as macaws, toucans or colorful parrots. You will be able to spot monkeys and other canopy dwelling animals.
Mineral licks
A trip to the mineral licks is also a must for birdwatchers, but also all lovers of nature. A great time to visit is in the morning as the rainforest daylight creatures start their day and fight for survival at the crack of dawn. The animals go there every day to ingest the vital minerals that they need for their continued good health. Here, hundreds of species gather and take their turns.
Canoeing or kayaking
Canoeing is also one of the most popular activities. This can be done on either a motorized craft or a traditional paddle powered one. A slow trip along the wide river will give you the chance to observe the full range of rainforest wildlife, ground dwelling animals and aquatic ones too. As the animals come to the banks to drink, you may observe, panthers, tapirs or caimans and giant otters.
Cultural visits
Quite frequently, there are interpretative centers, where you can learn all about your hosts. These places have been specially designed to share culture, traditions and beliefs. A great complement to an unforgettable holiday, mixing culture and nature perfectly.
Miguel Andy is General Manager of Napo Wildlife Center. Napo Wildlife Center is an eco-lodge offering unforgettable experiences in the Amazon rainforest of Ecuador, inside Yasuni Biosphere Reserve, which is managed by the Añangu kichwa aboriginal community.
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Miguel Andy
Miguel Andy is the General Manager of the Napo Wildlife Center and the Napo Cultural Center, which are two lodges of the Añangu Kichwa Community. Miguel is a leader and a member of the Añangu people that has committed with the protection of the nature of their ancestral land and their rich culture. All gains the Community receives from the visit of tourists to their luxury ecotourism projects are reinvested in social development. The Community School, the Health Care Center, energy solar panels, a water purification program, a housing project and more are result of this work. Visitors from all around the world enjoy different activities like canoe rides along the creeks, canopy towers climb, kayaking, visiting clay licks, cultural interaction, wildlife sightseeing and more.
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I’ve done a safari in South Africa with the lodge based next to a salt pan. Sat with a Sundowner in hand it was great to see the wildlife turning up for some salt as the sun set. Amazing photographic opportunities as the sun set behind them.
I’d never even thought about mineral licks in the Amazonian forests but of course wildlife needs its minerals wherever it is in the world. I would imagine too that you get to see a lot more wildlife in the Amazon too.
Actually, Amazon is quite rich and diverse in terms of Clay Licks. Different animals, especially birds will come often to eat clay, which would attract other animals looking for a different diet. A great opportunity to spot some great animals!!
I’m glad you finished by mentioning the cultural events and meeting the local people. Far too many people travel without wanting to engage with the local people. Never forget that the local people are the country.
I totally agree Darius, we believe local people must be included with tourism options. Even more if local people is a sort of guaranty to protect the forest.
Well, I’ve learnt something new. I’d always thought that the Amazon was impenetrable jungle and that you had to hack your way through with a machete which isn’t really my style. That you can stroll through without disturbing the wildlife completely changes my outlook.
That´s completely true Jen. There are many options to visit the deep jungle easily. Some places offer near flights, which helps a lot. Then, into this lodges, nothing from modern life would be missed, as they offer 24/7 electricity, pure water and even internet connection!!!
Standing looking out over the canopy and spotting the birds of the Amazon would be absolutely fantastic though there’s one problem. I haven’t got much of a head for heights. I’m OK if it’s safe and protected. If it’s just a ladder up a soaring tree then it wouldn’t be for me. How do you get up to these canopies? How safe are they?
At least, the ones I know are pretty safe. In the Ecuadorian Amazon, canopy towers are build following high standards. There is a case where there is even an elevator, which is very helpful when trying to reach the top of the forest.
I would love to take a hike through the Amazon and see the trees, the animals in the forest, that would be amazing. I bet the landscape is a heaven for budding photographers, too. The cultural aspects would be eye-opening and so unique, and I’d want to get more involved if I ever visited because it seems a shame not to engage with the people there and learn more about the ways of life. The Amazon in general does seem like a special place on earth like no other. The lungs of the world, as they say.
Hello Jess, you are actually completely right. Going to the Amazon is a spiritual experience, nature is very generous and warm welcoming.
Additionally, visiting Ecotourism Projects, owned by local communities are a hugh opportunity to collaborate to preserve this forest. Ancestral owners take care like no one else this magic space, certainly, the lungs of the world.
What a refreshing piece to come across!
In times, when the internet and media is flooded with news of the Amazon’s wildfires and dry weather, I am glad to see a post actually appreciating and portraying the other side of the picture.
My passion for hiking led me to travel to this rainforest around a decade ago and it was truly one of the best decisions of my life. The unrivalled serenity. The matchless beauty. And the unprecedented hospitality of the locals.
The visit promises memories that will stay with the traveller for all the times to come.
Thank you for sharing your experience Clarke!!, nowdays, some places have developed more comfort, totally respecting the environment.
This comfort, plus the quietness, landscapes, flora, fauna and culture are the perfect mix for some unforgettable holidays!!