Things To Do
in Novo Airão
Novo Airão is a riverside town in Amazonas, perched on the banks of the Rio Negro just upstream from Manaus. It's the gateway to the Anavilhanas Archipelago, one of the world's largest freshwater archipelagos. Life here centers on boats, markets, and the rhythms of the river.
Visitors come for wildlife encounters, vibrant markets, and an authentic Amazon experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small airport in Novo Airão, where you’ll be greeted by lush green scenery and the sounds of the Amazon rainforest. After checking into your cozy accommodation, take some time to rest and adjust to the tropical climate. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with local fruits and freshly brewed coffee to energize your day ahead.
Spend your afternoon exploring the quaint town of Novo Airão, visiting local markets and interacting with friendly residents. Don’t miss the chance to sample traditional Amazonian dishes at a nearby restaurant. Capture moments of the vibrant street life and beautiful architecture on your camera.
As the sun sets, join a guided night walk in the rainforest, where you can discover nocturnal wildlife and experience the unique sounds of the Amazon at night. Return to town for dinner at a local eatery, where you can indulge in a variety of flavors. Wind down your day by enjoying a laid-back evening listening to music by local artists.
Set out early for a guided tour of the Anavilhanas National Park, known for its stunning array of islands and rich biodiversity. Enjoy a boat ride through the waterways, spotting various species of birds and aquatic life that thrive in this unique ecosystem. Breakfast will be served on board, featuring delightful local specialties.
Continue your adventure with a visit to some of the park’s less accessible areas, where you'll encounter hidden swimming holes and secluded beaches. Take a short hike through the forest and learn about the plants and animals from your knowledgeable guide. Relax with a picnic lunch surrounded by nature's beauty.
Return to Novo Airão for a relaxing dinner where you can recount the day’s experiences over local dishes. Spend your evening strolling along the riverside, enjoying the cool breeze and the view of the water reflecting the stars. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and tips about the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Soft drink or bottled water | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $30-70 |
| 🚤Boat tour or excursion | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close-to-nature Amazon experience
- Affordable, accessible river town
- Easy to combine with Manaus and Anavilhanas trips
- Limited healthcare infrastructure
- Remote feel may be too quiet for some travelers
- Seasonal water levels affect boat trips
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu gostaria de uma água" - I would like a water
Places to Visit in Novo Airão
Visit one of these nice places.
The wide river glows with rich colors as forest silhouettes reflect on the water.
Photograph the mosaic of islands and tranquil channels from boat jetties and lookouts.
Vibrant colors, fresh fruits, and daily life provide dynamic subject matter.
A colonial-era church with a simple interior and river views nearby.
Food in Novo Airão
Novo Airão Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot tucupi-and-jambu soup served with dried shrimp, typically enjoyed at riverfront stalls.
Must-Try!
Duck cooked in tucupi sauce, often served with white rice and farinha.
Fish stew featuring tambaqui or pirarucu, infused with local herbs.
A frozen puree of açaí served with banana and granola, a refreshing treat.
Filleted pirarucu prepared grilled, fried, or in simple stews to showcase the river fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh fruit, manioc flour, dried river fish, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Tacacá, tapioca, and fresh fruits line the waterfront, especially in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Portuguese is spoken; greet with Bom dia / Boa tarde; use senhor/senhora in formal settings.
Ask permission before visiting homes or taking photos; dress modestly in religious spaces; avoid loud behavior late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Novo Airão
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and guided tours, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated; many remote places may not add service charges.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dryer conditions with higher evaporation; still humid and hot. Great for river travel and wildlife viewing, but mosquitoes can be abundant.
Wet season with heavier rains and higher river levels, creating more boat routes but some trails may be flooded. Plan flexible itineraries.
Novo Airão at Night
Hiking in Novo Airão
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail systems around the archipelago offering forest and lagoon scenery.
Short riverbank hikes for wildlife viewing and scenery.
Airports
How to reach Novo Airão by plane.
Primary gateway to the Amazon region; from Manaus you can reach Novo Airão by river or road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing communities along the Rio Negro with rich river-based traditions.
A mix of residents and travelers drawn to the archipelago and rainforest.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A universal pastime in town and the surrounding communities.
Both a sport and livelihood on the Rio Negro.
Casual play at riverside areas when the weather allows.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novo Airão.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Amazonian dishes center on fish or tucupi-based sauces; opt for cassava dishes, rice and beans, salads, and request tucupi-free preparations.