AmazonMystery, beyond the beaten trail

in maintenance"Beyond the beaten trail"

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Many thanks for a great trip, we truly enjoyed it! The kayak trip was an excellent mixture of adventures, challenge and relaxation!

Peter Hanington (Australia ) Alexandra Pacheco (Canada) e Dawn Shin (USA)

Review of Amazon Mystery Tours

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.

Kayak

Introduction
Urubu
Jatapu
Taruma

Introduction Deeper into the Amazon: kayking expedtion We believe kayaks leave the lowest impact on our delicate environment while giving participants the most natural experience the Amazon can offer. Mathieu Poirier, the owner of our company, has spent the last 15 years exploring the Amazon Rivers many tributaries to find these special, secluded rivers. Gliding silently down a tributary of the Amazon river that few people in the world have seen is a once in a lifetime experience. We hope you will give us the opportunity to share this special experience with you.For each of our trips, you will find a summary of activities and a detailed example itinerary. Activities will be altered according to weather conditions and a clients preferences and physical condition. The Tree-Climbing activity can be added to all the tours and is usually done on the first or second day. We can repeat (except Tree-Climbing), switch, cancel and even create new activities as you wish. At Amazon Mystery Tours, we tailor our tour to you.PACKAGES INCLUDE:• Airport transfers to/from hotels in Manaus• Transfer service between hotel and ports facilities• Hotel reservation service for Manaus• All meals during the trip• Unlimited Caipirinha cocktails + one 2 liter bottle of mineral water to refill during the trip• All camping equipment (hammocks, tarps, mosquito nets, etc.)• Fishing equipment basic no rods• First aid kit • One 20L (5.3gallon) drybag of per person or per couple (for use during the expedition)• Bilingual guide • Indian or Native guide • Local rainforest tracker• Storage for extra luggage in our office in ManausBoats: • Cabo Horn Sea kayaks (single or double) with a foot controlled rudder• Kayak life jackets and helmets• Kayak is outfitted with neoprene skirt and covers• Fiberglass Canoe PACKAGES DOES NOT INCLUDE:• Brazilian airpass / International tickets • Tips • Hotel and meals in Manaus • Travel insuranceNote:If travelers wish to bring gifts for local families we visit, please keep in mind we prefer clients do not give money or candy. School supplies like colorful crayons, soccer balls with pump and pins, perfumes, and tobacco are greatly appreciated by the families.Amazon Mystery Tours will take you off the beaten path

Deeper into the Amazon.docx

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Urubu

I ACTIVITIES IN THE URUBU RIVER EXPEDITIONS1. SCENIC KAYAKINGThe Amazon jungle and the Urubu River will open its beautiful surroundings to you while kayaking for your first 2 hours through Its luxuriant rainforest. Through the whole expedition, you will spend time kayaking through a variety of waters. Some will be shallow, relaxing areas with flat rocks and others will be mixed with the excitement of the tip or do not tip in the rapid spots Early morning kayaking (6:00 am) may be a good choice since leaving from this specific area, will give you the best chance to see rare animals like tapirs, electric eels and the magnificent harpy eagle. Then, night kayaking is always exciting, as you head for your Nocturnal Animal Observation*, including the alligator spotting.In the lower part of the Urubu river, adventurers will go through a different rainforest ecosystem. In this area, the river will be larger with a few small lakes entrances on the sides. There won’t be any more rapids, but very quiet streams where we may see monkeys, coatis (raccoon family) and white herons. 2. HIKES THROUGH VIRGIN, UNINHABITATED JUNGLESSome areas of the Urubu River are in the higher land ecosystem with hundreds of plant species and trees up to 60 meters high (200 feet). In this ecosystem, the intertwined canopy in some areas can totally block the passage of light making the area extremely humid, obscure and with little ventilation, yet, amazingly beautiful. This activity will have you trekking in the higher land rainforest. As needed, we will clear trails and stop frequently when we find interesting medicinal plants, resins to make torches, water-vines and much other fascinating information from our guide’s vast knowledge. He will also show you how to live from the rainforest with some basic survival techniques. Have to mention here the Night Hiking! On your way to the overnight camping in the deeper rainforest” 3. PIRANHA AND PEACOCK BASS FISHINGAround 15:30 (3:30 pm), it will be time for the piranha or peacock bass fishing excursion that will continue until dusk. Sometimes, fresh water pink and/or gray dolphins come close during this fishing activity (when the river is high since there is a waterfall along the way of the main open wide river where the dolphins live) attracted by the same noise (splashes on the water) made to attract the piranhas. This is a perfect time to see couples of green parrots flying back home to sleep. Back at the camp, the guides will prepare two options for dinner: a classical meal or, if the fishing was successful, a piranha fish soup – a famous aphrodisiac.4. NOCTURNAL ANIMAL OBSERVATIONThis activity will be done after sunset using spotlights to localize the animals by the reflection of their eyes. The guide will try to catch a caiman/alligator without hurting himself or the animal using his experience and techniques. For the brave ones, it is possible to hold the caiman, assuming it is not over a meter (3 foot) long. After some explanations and a few pictures, the guide will slowly set the caiman free. Other nocturnal animals, like spiders, snakes, owls or giant frogs could also be seen.5. OVERNIGHT CAMP DEEP IN THE JUNGLELate in the afternoon, the rainforest tracker will guide trekkers as far as they wish for the overnight camping in the deeper rainforest. Basic camping gear, smaller hammocks and prepared food will be put in everyone’s daypacks and carried into the mysterious rainforest. This is a once in a lifetime experience, to be in the middle of the deep Amazonian rainforest, in total darkness, listening to and trying to view nocturnal animals. Most animals are not seen during the day, as 80% are nocturnal. Sometimes, animals may come very close to the camping place since we do not make any fire as to better welcome our night visitors. This is a safe and mysteriously thrilling experience .

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II KAYAKING THE URUBU RIVER - 4 to 6 DaysThe Urubu River is a tributary of the great Amazon River located East of Manaus. It’s almost 500 km/310 miles long, and is the narrowest river we travel on, a perfect width to enjoy the rainforest at your fingertips. Few people live on this exciting river and you’ll enjoy various peaceful days without seeing anyone or hearing a single motorboat. The current, will help you in your journey downstream, you should even have the chance to go through some exciting rapids. Kayaking is the perfect way to experience this beautiful and mystic river before mass tourism discovers it!Summary activities: 1. Scenic kayaking 2. Hikes through virgin, uninhabited jungles 3. Piranha and peacock bass fishing 4. Nocturnal animal observation (including alligator spotting) 5. Overnight camp deep in the jungle 6. Sunrise and sunset observation 7. Meet local dwellers families and/or small villages 8. Overnight in a family’s home (by request) 9. White water rapids (in season) 10. Explore a bat cave (except in the 4 days)11. Hike to a remote and rarely seen waterfallDay 108:00 am. We will meet you in the lobby of your hotel. You can enjoy the Amazonian scenery in the 2 hours road ride to the shore of the Urubu River. On arrival, your guide will introduce the kayaks by teaching you how to get into the kayak without falling in the water, steer and where to store your gear. Then it will be into the water for a short swim to help you lose any fear of this 24C (75F) black water. 11:00 am. A little snack and let’s go! Time for kayaking for about 2 hours through the luxuriant rainforest where blue and yellow macaws live. This will be your first taste of the Amazon jungle, the river and it’s beautiful surroundings. In your first stop, you’ll be able to stretch your legs with your first hike through the rainforest to see an interesting bat cave often used in their reproduction period. You have to squeeze yourself through a low/narrow rock passage, then, soon enough, you’ll make your entrance in the spectacular main chamber where runs a little waterfall through a hole in the center roof. Sometimes, a little caiman/alligator is resting in the shallow rocky bottom pool. Swimming is not recommended here Before leaving for another little stretch of kayaking, we will have a nice fresh fruit snack and be on our way to the first campsite, where a nice hot meal will be waiting for us. This camp is located in front of a 25 meters (80 feet) high cliff where tiny orchid plants grip the vertical rocky wall. Camp will slowly be set up as you enjoy the famous Brazilian drink, the Caipirinha (sugar cane liquor with lime, sugar and ice). Your hammock will be covered by a mosquito net and a large tarp on top in case of rain. Your guide will make a little demonstration of techniques to make better usage of your hammock, then, it’ll be your turn. To lower any risk of flipping around in your hammock and meet the ground, we suggest you get these techniques before your 3rd Caipirinha. A nice dinner will eventually be served.Day 2 … onward:In a dialogue with your English-speaking guide, you can adapt the timetable of the next days working around the activities described bellow. Some can be repeated while others skipped. Factors to be considered are the number of days you have, the water level, the security, your pace and remembering that it is YOUR expedition DIFFERENCES IN THE NUMBER OF DAYS - 4 or 6 ?In the 4 days expedition, only one activity is left out, the bat cavern, and then you will not be able to repeat or even extend too much any activities. A good paddling pace must be maintained to reach the landing spot, good physical condition is recommended. In the 5 days expedition, you will have time for all activities and go down at a more “normal” pace. In 6 days, you may repeat some activities, relax and perhaps leave the doors open for more surprises. Adventure!

III 6. SUNRISE AND SUNSET OBSERVATIONSunrise and sunset in the Amazon are around 6:00am and 6:00pm. A spectacular mix of yellow, orange and reddish colors in the sky blending in the waters and the different shade of greens from the forest, it’s enchanting. When still, the reflection effect is so perfect that you have to look twice to see where the water, forest or skyline is. It’s one of the most beautiful and photographic landscape the Amazon has to offer. The sound of the birds waking up or going to sleep also complements this unique atmosphere. 7. MEET LOCAL DWELLERS FAMILIES AND/OR SMALL VILLAGESLocals are very friendly and receptive; you can experience firsthand, part of their reality and the way of life of the people of the Amazon. You can learn about the traditional manioc plant processing, a staple crop, and discover how they extract the poisonous liquid from the roots. If you are lucky, you may see local people carving a canoe or a home made 15 meters (50 feet) motorized wood fishing boat. In exchange for the visit, sometimes clients like to give gifts of school supplies like colorful crayons, perfumes, soccer ball. 8. OVERNIGHT IN A FAMILY’S HOME (BY REQUEST)If you’d like to extend this cultural encounter, an overnight can be arranged, normally done in the last night of the trip when everyone is a bit tired and want to take it easy with the activities or camp mounting .9. WHITE WATER RAPIDS (in season)In this seasonal activity, the guides will drive you in a challenge adventure of passing through the rapids formed by the shallow waters in contact with some plates of rocks in the bottom of the river. It is a funny and refreshing experience to fell on you the splash of the water against the kayak. 10. EXPLORE A BAT CAVE (except in the 4 days)You will hike through the rainforest for some 30 minutes until you reach an interesting bat cave often used in their reproduction period. You have to squeeze yourself through a low/narrow rock passage, then, soon enough, you will make your entrance in the spectacular main chamber where runs a little waterfall through a hole in the center roof. Sometimes, a little caiman/alligator is resting in the shallow rocky bottom pool. Swimming is not recommended here 11. HIKE TO A REMOTE AND RARELY SEEN WATERFALLLess than 30 minutes hike will bring you to a very remote, non-touristy waterfall. It's possible to swim, climb a small cliff on the side of the falls and go behind the waters in a tiny cavity that olds up to 3 people, it’s awesome! Then, climb a few more meters, holding to roots & rocks and arrive on the second level area. Here you can go behind some more falls and then enjoy the top view of this heaven-like setting.LAST DAY:On the final day, you will kayak for three hours or so to get to the final destination, a dirt road owned by the Government Agriculture Research Center. We’ll be met by our van and all the gear will be packed up while you have lunch. Afterwards, it will be a 2-3 hour ride through the government’s experimental Dendê biodiesel plantations to get to the asphalt road. Finally, there will be an opportunity to stop for cold beers / soft drinks to celebrate the 190 km (120 miles) kayaking journey before arriving in Manaus one hour later.

AMT KAYAK URUBU 4-6 DAYS.doc

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Jatapu KAYAKING THE JATAPU RIVER 8-10 DAYSOn this 8-10 day kayaking trip, you’ll have the most intimate Amazon jungle experience Amazon Mystery Tours can offer. The Jatapu River is a little known sub tributary of the Amazon River. As a brown water river, it represents a rare ecosystem that encompasses species from two different types of rivers including the silt, white water (similar to the Amazon River) and the black, acidic water (like the Rio Negro) species. It is THE region to see the most wildlife in terms of quantity and biodiversity.Summary activities: 1. Scenic kayaking 2. Hikes through virgin, uninhabited jungles 3. Piranha and peacock bass fishing 4. Nocturnal animal observation (including alligator spotting) 5. Overnight camp deep in the jungle 6. Sunrise and sunset observation 7. Meet local dwellers families and/or small villages 8. Overnight in a family’s home (by request) 9. Explore a bat cave Day 01:You'll be picked up at your hotel at the first day in a van to go to Itapiranga Town, which is around 250Km far from Manaus, about 4 hours driving. We'll lunch in this town and go loading the boat that will be the base for this trip (depending on the number of guests). We’ll navigate for a few hours through some canals of the Amazon River and reach the Auatumã River where the boat will be anchored in a small tributary around some white sand beaches to spend the first night.Day 02:Next day, after the sun rise, breakfast will be served aboard and some brief kayaking can be done for exploring the area, back in the boat, we'll navigate some more to reach the Jatapu River's mouth which we’ll go up for at least 9 hours to reach our destiny, about all this day long, once we reach Capu-Capu River, the river where we'll star our descent. The boat will stop along the way to collect a local dweller in one of the small villages around, who will be our local guide for in this trip.Day 03:The following day after breakfast we'll meet someone who lives around this area that are going to take us for a 4 hours hike to reach some bat caves deep inside the jungle. Hands to work, the kayak descent will start this afternoon; this night probably will spend in the boat, like the night before.The other following days will be dedicated to kayak down the Jatapu stopping along the way to execute the activities described below. The idea is getting inside some small inhabited tributaries where these activities will be done. Camping, can be done every nigh according to the conditions of the moments (water level and weather).
1. SCENIC KAYAKINGThe Amazon jungle and the Jatapu River will open its beautiful surroundings to you while kayaking through its luxuriant rainforest. Through the whole expedition, you will spend time kayaking through a variety of waters. Early morning kayaking (6:00 am) may be a good choice since leaving from this specific area, will give you the best chance to see rare animals like tapirs, electric eels and the magnificent harpy eagle. Then, night kayaking is always exciting, as you head for your Nocturnal Animal Observation*, including the alligator spotting.In the lower part of the Jatapu river, adventurers will go through a different rainforest ecosystem. In this area, the river will be larger with a few small lakes entrances on the sides. There will very quiet streams where we may see monkeys, coatis (raccoon family) and white herons. 2. HIKES THROUGH VIRGIN, UNINHABITED JUNGLESSome areas of the Jatapu River are in the higher land ecosystem with hundreds of plant species and trees up to 60 meters high (200 feet). In this ecosystem, the intertwined canopy in some areas can totally block the passage of light making the area extremely humid, obscure and with little ventilation, yet, amazingly beautiful. As well as, you can see parts of flooded forest especially in the main river because it’s a relatively new river with some flat, low areas still in process of formation, only possible walking there when the water level is low.This activity will have you trekking in the higher land rainforest. As needed, we’ll clear trails and stop frequently when we find interesting medicinal plants, resins to make torches, water-vines and much other fascinating information from our guide’s vast knowledge. He’ll also show you how to live from the rainforest with some basic survival techniques. Have to mention here the Night Hiking! On your way to the overnight camping in the deeper rainforest”3. PIRANHA AND PEACOCK BASS FISHINGAround 15:30 (3:30 pm), it’ll be time for the piranha or peacock bass fishing excursion that will continue until dusk. Sometimes, fresh water pink and/or gray dolphins come close during this fishing activity, attracted by the same noise (splashes on the water) made to attract the piranhas. This is a perfect time to see couples of green parrots flying back home to sleep. Back at the camp, the guides will prepare 2 options for dinner: a classical meal or, if the fishing was successful, a piranha fish soup – a famous aphrodisiac.
4. NOCTURNAL ANIMAL OBSERVATIONThis activity will be done after sunset using spotlights to localize the animals by the reflection of their eyes. The guide will try to catch a caiman/alligator without hurting himself or the animal, using his experience and techniques. For the brave ones, it’s possible to hold the caiman, assuming it’s not much over a meter (3 foot) long. After some explanations and a few pictures, the guide will slowly set the caiman free. Other nocturnal animals, like spiders, snakes, owls or giant frogs could also be seen.5. OVERNIGHT CAMP DEEP IN THE JUNGLELate in the afternoon, the rainforest tracker will guide trekkers as far as they wish for the overnight camping in the deeper rainforest. Basic camping gear, smaller hammocks and prepared food will be put in everyone’s day packs and carried into the mysterious rainforest. This is a once in a lifetime experience, to be in the middle of the deep Amazonian rainforest, in total darkness, listening to and trying to view nocturnal animals. Most animals are not seen during the day, as 80% are nocturnal. Sometimes, animals may come very close to the camping place since we don’t make any fire as to better welcome our night visitors. This is a safe and mysteriously thrilling experience J6. SUNRISE AND SUNSET OBSERVATIONSunrise and sunset in the Amazon are around 6:00am and 6:00pm. A spectacular mix of yellow, orange and reddish colors in the sky blending in the waters and the different shade of greens from the forest, it’s enchanting. When still, the reflection effect is so perfect that you have to look twice to see where the water, forest or skyline is. It’s one of the most beautiful and photographic landscape the Amazon has to offer. The sound of the birds waking up or going to sleep also complements this unique atmosphere. 7. MEET LOCAL DWELLERS FAMILIES AND/OR SMALL VILLAGESLocals are very friendly and receptive; you can experience firsthand, part of their reality and the way of life of the people of the Amazon. You can learn about the traditional manioc plant processing, a staple crop, and discover how they extract the poisonous liquid from the roots. If you are lucky, you may see local people carving a canoe or a homemade 15 meters (50 feet) motorized wood fishing boat. In exchange for the visit, sometimes clients like to give gifts of school supplies like colorful crayons, perfumes, soccer ball. 8. OVERNIGHT IN A FAMILY’S HOME (BY REQUEST)If you’d like to extend this cultural encounter, an overnight can be arranged, normally done in the last night of the trip when everyone is a bit tired and want to take it easy with the activities or camp mounting 9. EXPLORE A BAT CAVE You will hike through the rainforest for a few hours until you reach an interesting bat cave often used in their reproduction period. This remote spot will allow you to have a good experience of the rain forest, where sometimes we can see families of agoutis (local rodent with no tail) and other animals, as well as a nice introduction of the environment.

KAYAKING THE JATAPU RIVER 8.doc

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Taruma Kayaking the Tarumã Açu / Tarumã Mirim1 – 2 daysIntroductionThe Tarumã kayaking programs were carefully developed to meet the growing demand for a trip which exposes participants to the real Amazon without involving them in a long and expensive expedition. The Tarumã Rivers are tributaries of the Rio Negro west of Manaus which still boast areas of undisturbed rainforest. Not only are they relatively easily accessible, but (for those who know where to look) they provide a combination of excellent jungle paths, flooded forest canoe trails and white, sandy tropical beaches, with the added bonus of access to indigenous communities and to the Museu Seringal da Vila Paraiso (the Rubber Museum, which is now deservedly receiving excellent feedback from visitors). Within the Tarumã eco-system we can also find wildlife which includes monkeys, many birds and the famous pink dolphin of the Amazon.If you have only a short time to appreciate the wonders of the Amazon, this is an excellent option.Summary of ActivitiesDay 1(and Day Trip)1.Scenic kayaking2.Picnic and swimming3.Visit to the Museu Seringal da Vila Paraíso4.Sunset observation (end of Day Trip!)5.Camping (for the 2 days program)Day 21.Strike camp and sunrise observation2.Hike in jungle trails3.Meeting local forest dwellersOptional (extra)1.Visit to the Monkey rehabilitation centre (R$ 30 (BrazilianReal))2.Native indigenous experience (R$ 50 BrazilianReal))3.Swimming with dolphins (R$ 50 BrazilianReal))4.Canopy tree climbing (R$ 380 BrazilianReal))5.Lodge instead of camping (R$ 420 BrazilianReal))Note: you should be aware that due to the huge annual flux of water in the Amazon (varying from 10m – 15m), not all options may be available (for example beaches are at their best at low water (September – December); flooded forest at high water (April to June) etc).Activities in detailScenic kayaking (day 1)In our expedition kayaks we will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the tributaries that make up the Tarumã basin without the noise of a motor – as well as spend some time on the wide-open waters of the Rio Negro.You will see first-hand, the startling contrast between the power and noise of the capital city and the true power and peacefulness of the surrounding environment.Picnic and swimming in the Rio Negro (day 1)After our morning’s kayaking, we’ll be ready for some lunch. We’ll find a good spot either on a beautiful tropical white sandy beach or deep inside a small tributary (igarapé) in the flood season. Either way, we will have the chance of enjoying a relaxing swim or resting in a hammock (or both, but not at the same time…)The Rio Negro, unlike the Amazon, is a very slow-moving river which is very safe and pleasant to swim in. Although most visitors are a little wary of it at first, everyone enjoys the experience of swimming off sandy beaches in the dark, warm waters of the Negro.Visit to the Museu Seringal da Vila Paraiso (day 1)The Rubber Museum lies 20km to the northwest of Manaus (8km from the Ponta Negra), on the Rio Tarumã Mirim, and is accessible only from the river. It was originally built as a set in 2001 for the Brazilian film A Selva (The Jungle), based on a book by Ferreiro de Castro. It tells the story of the life of a rubber baron and his rubber plantation (seringal) at the turn of the century. The set is a reconstruction of a real plantation - Seringal Vila Paraiso - which existed near Humaitá at that time. The buildings are faithful replicas of what would have existed in and around 1912, and most of the artefacts are genuine, having been acquired from or donated by descendants of the rubber families who remain in the region to this day.The museum provides an interesting insight into the bizarre lives of luxury of the rubber barons and highlights the contrast with the unimaginably hard existence of what was effectively a slave labour force. With a short forest trail and demonstrations of the extraction and treatment of latex, the museum is an important site providing an excellent understanding of the origins of the city of Manaus and the development of the surrounding area.Sunset/sunrise observation (day 1)At once both thrilling and relaxing, there is nothing quite like watching the sun go down over the black waters of the Rio Negro and the rainforest beyond. The colours, reflections, noises and still air are altogether inspiring, and once we have pitched camp, we will have plenty of time to savour the splendour and watch and listen to (!) nightfall over the Amazon forest.In the morning it will be the early risers who will get the best out of the emerging dawn. We will see the birds awake and begin their quest for food, while the early-morning calm of the water broken only by the rising fish and dolphin is perfect for our kayaking.
Camping (day 1/2)Camping in the rainforest is an unforgettable experience, and the best way to get a feel for how native Indians live and what early settlers would have experienced 300 years ago. Unlike many expeditions, we rarely use the same location twice and strive to leave no mark on the environment other than our footprints. The water levels will determine our spot for the night, and we will set up a simple camp of hammocks, mosquito nets and tarpaulins. Normally we will camp near the river, but we can move further into the forest for those with a taste for it (although obviously this will impact on other activities like sunset/sunrise observation and hiking).Hike in jungle trails (day 2)Most people find the hours we spend trekking in the rainforest to be both and inspiration and an education. We use local guides with detailed knowledge of the medicinal plants and their uses in the past (before the arrival of any settlers) and in the present day. Such knowledge can enable one to survive alone for many days in the jungle.Meeting local forest dwellers (day 1 & 2)Locals are very friendly and receptive, and we can experience first-hand, part of their reality and the way of life of peoples of the Amazon. We will visit communities established within indigenous reserves within 40-50km of Manaus, but quite isolated from the city by the absence of roads and modern infrastructure. Now days a significant percentage of the indigenous population work in local tourism during the dry season, returning to their communities at high water to care for their small plantations and to fish.In return for this opportunity, visitors often like to leave gifts of school materials like crayons, pencils, exercise books, footballs etc.Optional (extra)1. Monkey Rehabilitation CentreThe Centre for Re-habilitation and Re-introduction of Wild Animals (known locally as the Monkey Forest, was created in 1991 to receive animals rescued from illegal traders, and is a joint project with the Municipal Secretary for the Environment and Sustainability.Arriving animals are initially quarantined for evaluation by a team of veterinarians and biologists, and on release to the Centre continue to be cared for as unobtrusively as possible. The animals benefit from a unique feeding system developed in partnership with the FFV (Living Forest Foundation) and overseen by the Amazon Copra Lodge.The Centre boasts a high success rate, with many animals subsequently released or able to breed in their natural environment within the wider Centre.2. Native Indigenous ExperienceOpting for the native experience will give you the opportunity to see and participate actively in traditional indigenous rituals which have survived from the times before any settlers arrived. Although what you will see on the day is of course a performance designed to please you the visitor, there is no showmanship here, and the rituals are exactly the same as performed daily when you are not there to watch.3. Canopy tree climbingIt is an interesting experience to experience the rainforest from the canopy. This is not the common tree-climbing with a fixed structure that you will find at jungle lodges or large group facilities – instead we use professionals to equip and train you before letting you loose on the tree with just your ropes and safety equipment to get you to the top (and a helping hand when you need it). You will be in secure hands and we guarantee that the sensation of ascending to the canopy is breathtaking. The duration of this activity based on two people is around 2 hours.4. Swimming with dolphinsSome rules need to be followed with respect to the animals and their habitat and habits, but swimming with the famous pink dolphin (boto) of the Amazon is surely the experience of a lifetime. You will be in the water with these gentle creatures as they swim so close to you that you can reach out and touch them. A great sensation.

KAYAKING TARUMÃ.doc

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Speed Boat

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River Boat
RIVER BOATEXAMPLE ITINERARY: 3-5 DAYS RIVER BOAT ON THE NEGRO RIVER Negro River is the largest tributary of the Amazon River (know by Brazilians as the Solimões River) and is 1.500 kilometers long. In the Negro River there is an area of archipelagos named the Anavilhanas, which is a protected national reserve made up of over 400 islands. This is the world’s largest river archipelago. The landscape is very still and you’ll find magical mirror-like reflections in the black water. Typically, this area does not have a lot of animals, but we know some special places. The Negro River is also where many companies find fish to export to aquarium collectors around the world. With dolphins and white sand beaches, this is an ideal place for families in the dry season. Summary activities: 1. Scenic river boating; 2. Hikes through virgin, uninhabited jungles; 3. Piranha and/or peacock bass fishing; 4. Nocturnal animal observation (including alligator spotting); 5. Overnight camp deep in the jungle; 6. Sunrise and sunset observation; 7. Meet local dwellers families and/or small villages; 8. Overnight in a family’s home (by request);Day 18:00AM Participants will be picked-up in their hotel lobby. We’ll then drive from your hotel to the port. From there, we head off for about 30 minutes to the “Meeting of Waters” where the Amazon and the Negro Rivers flows aside each other for a few miles without mixing, there you’ll see these “coffee & milk” colored rivers phenomenon. Time for a photo stop! From this point, we’ll travel up the Negro River with a stop on a pirarucu farm The pirarucu fish is one of the world’s largest fresh water fish, reaching up to 3 meters (10 feet) and some 200 kilos (over 400 pounds). The fishes are raised by a local river dweller and lie in big reservoirs on the river side. Seeing their strong and lightning speed reaction to a bait fish drop near them is quite impressive. After the fish farm we’ll get in the Janauary Ecological Park where you’ll have a little walk on a suspended boardwalk to a pond where the famous giant water lilies lie. There’s often some alligators sun bathing in the pond. Along the way you might see a few monkeys having lunch in the tree tops. The high water season (February/August) sometimes allows you to explore the forest right from a little motor boat, you get a great feeling of closeness with mother nature as you go around, not on rivers or creeks but right inside the flooded rainforest, birds are usually well active and numerous towards the end of the afternoon when we reach this point. In the dry season (November/January), you’ll have a little hike in the rainforest to witness its majesty. Among the possible fauna to be seen are birds, monkeys and sloths.After lunch you’ll be in two of the most popular touristic activities in the Amazon: Piranha fishing and caiman spot:Piranha fishing – This traditional activity is best done towards the end of the afternoon when they're out for lunch. The local guide for some reason is usually luckier; he probably knows the exact moment to jerk the bite. If we're out of luck for a bit of time (some 30 minutes), we can choose not to extend the activity. Cayman night spotting – This catch & release activity can only be done in darkness. Our local guide is pretty good, it's usually not too long before he'll spot the shiny eyes of a Cayman and as we slowly approach, with his bare hands, he'll catch the Cayman (if it's not a 2 meters, six-footer) by the back of his head. He'll bring it inside the boat for you to feel the reptile's skin, for you to hold if you're daring enough and of course take a picture, then he'll slowly release the Cayman.First night will be spend in the in hammocks in the boat after all the activities done we’ll have about one more hour navigating up Negro River where we’ll find a good pace to anchor and have a deserved sleep for the next adventure dayDay 2 onward:It’ll be dedicated to perform the following activities:ACTIVITIES IN THE RIO NEGRO EXPEDITIONS 1. SCENIC RIVER BOATING The Amazon jungle and the Urubu River will open its beautiful surroundings to you while kayaking for your first 2 hours through its luxuriant rainforest. Through the whole expedition, you will spend time kayaking through a variety of waters. Some will be shallow, relaxing areas with flat rocks and others will be mixed with the excitement of the tip or don’t tip in the rapid spots J Early morning kayaking (6:00 am) may be a good choice since leaving from this specific area, will give you the best chance to see rare animals like tapirs, electric eels and the magnificent harpy eagle. Then, night kayaking is always exciting, as you head for your Nocturnal Animal Observation*, including the alligator spotting. In the lower part of the Urubu River, adventurers will go through a different rainforest ecosystem. In this area, the river will be larger with a few small lakes entrances on the sides. There won’t be any more rapids, but very quiet streams where we may see monkeys, coatis (raccoon family) and white herons. 2. HIKES THROUGH VIRGIN, UNINHABITATED JUNGLES Some areas of the Rio Negro are in the higher land ecosystem with hundreds of plant species and trees up to 60 meters high (200 feet). In this ecosystem, the intertwined canopy in some areas can totally block the passage of light making the area extremely humid, obscure and with little ventilation, yet, amazingly beautiful. This activity will have you trekking in the higher land rainforest. As needed, we’ll clear trails and stop frequently when we find interesting medicinal plants, resins to make torches, water-vines and much other fascinating information from our guide’s vast knowledge. He’ll also show you how to live from the rainforest with some basic survival techniques. Have to mention here the Night Hiking! On your way to the overnight camping in the deeper rainforest” 3. PIRANHA AND/OR PEACOCK BASS FISHING Around 15:30 (3:30 pm), it’ll be time for the piranha or peacock bass fishing excursion that will continue until dusk. Sometimes, fresh water pink and/or gray dolphins come close during this fishing activity, attracted by the same noise (splashes on the water) made to attract the piranhas. This is a perfect time to see couples of green parrots flying back home to sleep. Back at the camp, the guides will prepare 2 options for dinner: a classical meal or, if the fishing was successful, a piranha fish soup – a famous aphrodisiac. 4. NOCTURNAL ANIMAL OBSERVATION This activity will be done after sunset using spotlights to localize the animals by the reflection of their eyes. The guide will try to catch a caiman/alligator without hurting himself or the animal using his experience and techniques. For the brave ones, it’s possible to hold the caiman, assuming it’s not over a meter (3 foot) long. After some explanations and a few pictures, the guide will slowly set the caiman free. Other nocturnal animals, like spiders, snakes, owls or giant frogs could also be seen. 5. OVERNIGHT CAMP DEEP IN THE JUNGLE Late in the afternoon, the rainforest tracker will guide trekkers as far as they wish for the overnight camping in the deeper rainforest. Basic camping gear, smaller hammocks and prepared food will be put in everyone’s daypacks and carried into the mysterious rainforest. This is a once in a lifetime experience, to be in the middle of the deep Amazonian rainforest, in total darkness, listening to and trying to view nocturnal animals. Most animals are not seen during the day, as 80% are nocturnal. Sometimes, animals may come very close to the camping place since we don’t make any fire as to better welcome our night visitors. This is a safe and mysteriously thrilling experience J 6. SUNRISE AND SUNSET OBSERVATION Sunrise and sunset in the Amazon are around 6:00am and 6:00pm. A spectacular mix of yellow, orange and reddish colors in the sky blending in the waters and the different shade of greens from the forest, it’s enchanting. When still, the reflection effect is so perfect that you have to look twice to see where the water, forest or skyline is. It’s one of the most beautiful and photographic landscape the Amazon has to offer. The sound of the birds waking up or going to sleep also complements this unique atmosphere. 7. MEET LOCAL DWELLERS FAMILIES AND/OR SMALL VILLAGE Locals are very friendly and receptive; you can experience firsthand, part of their reality and the way of life of the people of the Amazon. You can learn about the traditional manioc plant processing, a staple crop, and discover how they extract the poisonous liquid from the roots. If you are lucky, you may see local people carving a canoe or a homemade 15 meters (50 feet) motorized wood fishing boat. In exchange for the visit, sometimes clients like to give gifts of school supplies like colorful crayons, perfumes, soccer ball. 8. OVERNIGHT IN A FAMILY’S HOME (BY REQUEST) If you’d like to extend this cultural encounter, an overnight can be arranged, normally done in the last night of the trip when everyone is a bit tired and want to take it easy with the activities or camp mounting.

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Rinaldo Tour/Expedition Manager, Head Guide and CorrespondentRinaldo is our main correspondent, head guide and tour/expedition manager, for AMT (since 2004). He has years of experience as head guide with Amazon Mystery Tours leading kayak expeditions through remote rivers and deep rainforest. His experience as a guide is a great asset as he can offer his expertise to our guests to help them plan their dream trip to the Amazon. Rinaldo is fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese and has extensive knowledge of the Manacapuru, Urubu, Jatapu, Uatama, Solimões, Rio Negro and Amazon Rivers.He’s an expert at identifying and describing the flora and fauna of the jungle. He can catch caimans/alligators and tarantulas barehanded (no exaggeration!). He loves to share his knowledge with people that come to the Amazon rainforest with an open mind and active curiosity. Rinaldo is very in tune with nature and his laid-back attitude will inspire confidence in the most timid adventurer!
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Jean Claude Finally settled in Manaus in 2005 with plans for a B&B project, which soon turned into a bespoke tour operation business. Fluent in English, French, and Portuguese, he has grown to know and love Manaus, the Amazon, the Cultures and the beautiful peoples during his many years in the region both before and since taking up Brazilian residency. In line with his business degree and background, Jean Claude gained extensive customer service experience which he now uses to provide guests with total peace of mind in choosing their best Amazon option. Jean Claude is often your first point of contact and he aims to respond to your emails and enquiries in a friendly and informative manner. His personal attention is such that some clients have remained in correspondence as friends long after their Amazon experiences.
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