Just 48 hours in Manaus, but a great 48. Manaus is on the Amazon river in the middle of the rainforest. Almost 2 million people live here, and it's hot, humid, bustling, and full of energy. We didn't have time to do much, mostly preparing for our boat trip to Parintins.
We went to MUSA, the Museum of the Amazon on the edge of the city. We climbed a 40 meter tall tower in the jungle, and from above the canopy we got to listen to the songs of birds and monkeys. They also had exhibits on how indigenous jungle tribes weave baskets for trapping fish, and they had dozens of plant and insect specimens. I had a picture of a tarantula but I deleted it because it was blurry and I didn't like scrolling past it in my image gallery.
We explored the port area- municipal market, banana market, and lots of small river boats going to the different towns. We bought bananas and Brazil nuts, and Priscilla informs me I bought too many souvenirs and our bags are almost exploding.
Next stop is Parintins for the Boi Bumba festival! We have a 20 hour trip downriver on the Lady Christina, and we'll be sleeping on the boat in hammocks for the festival. It's similar to Carnival, with elaborate costumes and music. Two teams, red (Garantido) and blue (Caprichoso), compete over the 3 nights of the festival to see who's presentation is the best. We'll be cheering on the blue team!
Not sure if we'll be able to post until we're back in Manaus on the 30th.
-Peter
We love reading your blog. I think I should retire and join your trip.
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