Manaus is the capital of the biggest state in Brazil, the Amazonas. Crusted in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, the city holds four million inhabitants and a strong economy, but also amazing and well preserved natural beauties. One of these is the 'meeting of waters', the place where the rivers Negro and Solimões meet, forming a line dividing dense black and brown waters. Definitely, this experience is one of the biggest amazes you will have in your life.
When you are first looking at this phenomenon, you think it is not a natural thing, but instead an ecological disaster. That is because the deep dark water does not really mix with the brown one. It streams through the river, like when oil meets water. This happens because of the differences between the waters, the density, temperature, and the speed of currents. While River Negro runs with about 2 km per hour, at a temperature of 28° C, the Solimões River runs with 5 km per hour, with a temperature of 22° C.
Meeting of Waters, Manaus
Meeting of Waters, Careiro da Várzea - State of Amazonas, 69255-000, ΒραζιλίαKeep in mind that these tours are more frequent during the rain period when the river gets its full capacity (from January to July). Around these months, you can see the clearest beauty of this natural spectacle, and also admire the biodiversity - both inside the water and out, within the river banks. The meeting of waters also extends for more than 5 km. This union is what forms the Amazon River, one of the biggest in the world. By the way, this stark color contrast can be seen even from space. It is really something you have to experience when in Manaus.
Getting there is easy; for further information, you can check the government's official website. It costs not more than 100 reais (or so 20 euros) per person. Usually, the boats come from the Ceasa Port, and the trip includes browsing around the Amazon River and its small affluents. It may take from 2 to 4 hours - make sure that you schedule everything in advance, but not too long before because this trip's conditions always depend on the weather.
Porto da Ceasa
Av. Min. Mário Andreazza, 913 - Vila Buriti, Manaus - AM, 69075-390, BrasilRemember to bring insect repellent, sunscreen and a raincoat (that is the best tip I can give you) -enjoy this fantastic experience. See you!!!
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The author
Fabio Jardelino
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