More than 30 percent of the earth's remaining forests are in Brazil's Amazon, an area resplendent with waters that feed the lush rain forest and the wildlife it sustains. Experience the Rio Amazona via whitewater raft, canoe, kayak or boat for a bird's-eye view of one of nature's greatest wonders.
Instructions
1. Fly into Manaus, a jumping-off point for the Amazon, by first stopping through Mexico City or Sao Paolo. Check out Varig, Brazil's major airline, or airlines such as Brazil Central and Trans-Brazil, which leave from Miami. U.S. carriers such as American and United also service most major Brazilian cities.
2. Stay home or go elsewhere if you can't handle heat, humidity, possible disease, and the bugs that come with the dense rain forest.
3. Come during the festive summer months of December through February if you want to party with vacationing Brazilians, but understand that prices are usually higher at that time. The northern portion of Brazil is comfortable (the term is relative here) throughout the year.
4. Hang glide in Rio, surf up and down the Brazilian coast, and sail in Buzios.
5. Raft or hike the river and jungle area through Amazon Nut Safaris or Grade IV Adventures. View parrots, crocs, snakes, monkeys, butterflies and everything in between.
6. Shack up in cheaper accommodations (U.S. $20 per day) or spring for a honeymoon package for three days and two nights at the Ariau Amazon Towers (U.S. $370) above the rain forest canopy.
Tags: rain forest