Manaus, Brazil

Meeting of the Waters Cruise

See Where the Amazon Begins and Celebrate the Biodiversity of the Rain Forest Board a local boat to see where the Amazon begins, the famous Meeting of the Waters. The phenomenon occurs where the dark Black River and the light brown Solimões River converge. This location is not only fascinating for its colorful ribbons of water, but is also part of the Central Amazon Conservation Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the majority of the ecosystems recorded in the Amazon. It is home to pink Amazon dolphins, caiman, electric fish, manatees, otters, abundant birdlife and innumerable other species. Depending on the season, your tour will include either a canoe excursion on Lake Janauari, where you will see the famous Victoria Regina water lilies named for Queen Victoria, or a walk along a wooden path to see the lilies and, possibly, birds and monkeys. These giant green-and-pink, tray-like pads are the symbol of the Amazon. Afterward, return to the Manaus pier by motorboat. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.