The North is the most unexplored part of the country, famous for the Amazon forest which represents over half of the planet's remaining rainforest and comprises the largest and most species-rich tract of tropical rainforest in the world.

The Amazon is perfect for those who want close contact with nature, and the many comfortable, even luxurious, hotels in the jungle mean this is possible without to much sacrifice.

Pearl Travel Guides is currently developing Manaus Guide and Belém Guide, plus associated products and services.

Manaus Guide

Manaus is the capital city of the Amazonas region and has a long and rich history.  Founded in 1669 as the Fort of São Jose do Rio Negro, it was elevated to a town in 1832 with the name of "Manaus," which means "mother of the gods."

Manaus is a cosmopolitan city with many attractions, and because of its location next to the Amazon rain forest, attracts many tourists as a gateway to the surrounding jungle.  Tour boats leave Manaus to see the Meeting of the Waters, where the black waters of the Negro River meet the brown waters of the Solimoes River, flowing side by side without mixing for about 9km. Tourists can also explore the rivers or walk in the lush forest.  And the more adventurous may even choose to spend a night or two in the jungle.

Belém Guide

Belém is the gateway to the Amazon, a busy port city on the banks of the Amazon estuary, and capital of the state of Pará. It was founded in 1616 as the first European colony on the Amazon but didn't become part of the Brazilian nation until 1775.

There is a colonial part of the city, rich history and architecture from colonial times, reflective of the boom that came with the tapping of natural rubber.  Boats sail from Belém to Manaus via the Amazon river, and the city is connected to the rest of Brazil via its international airport.