Manaus cruises, Brazil

This relaxing evening excursion gives you the opportunity to experience the wonder of the Manaus Opera House, known affectionately as ‘The Theatre of the Amazonian Jungle’. This truly enchanting, Italian Renaissance building is a working historical landmark which accommodates the Amazonas Philharmonic and hosts the annual Amazonas Opera Festival.

From the pier, you’ll take a short transfer by coach to the Opera House. Built in 1896, the structure was designed by Doménico de Angelis at a reputed cost of more than $2 million. All materials used in its construction were imported from Europe, including its French crystal mirrors and Italian marble floors. This treasured building has recently benefitted from extensive restoration to its stately exterior and sumptuous interior. It now ranks as one of the world’s most elegant theatres and remains a symbol of the golden era of Manaus.

On arrival at the Opera House, you’ll take your seats in the grand auditorium, where you will be treated to a 50-minute classical recital, performed by the ‘Amazonas Filarmônica’, and conductor Marcelo de Jesus.

Following your recital, you will re-join your coach for the transfer back to the pier.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Dress code will be smart casual. The performance will last approximately 50 minutes. Passengers are advised that due to the design and layout of the theatre, you may not be allocated your preferred seat on arrival. Please also note that some seating may have restricted views of the stage. There are steps at the Opera House. Photography and video are not permitted inside, or used during the performance. Drinks are available for purchase in the foyer. Seats are limited, book early to avoid disappointment.

The Chamber Orchestra of the Amazon and the Choir of the University of Amazon,proudly present a performance of ‘the Herald of Toys’ at the Manaus Opera House, the most famous building in Amazonia.

This exceptional venue is the perfect setting for you to appreciate the talents of this local choir and orchestra. There will be a multitude of toys and characters which come to life and tell the story of Dorothy, a blind girl whose eyesight returns on Christmas Eve, which coincides with the arrival of Santa Claus and the Birth of Jesus. This magical show will also have songs and rhythms inspired by local Amazonian traditions.

The Opera House - If any one building reflects the wealth of the rubber boom, then this must be it. Reported to have cost $10 million, the Opera House was completed in 1896, replete with French tiles and Italian frescoes all specifically imported for the rubber barons’ theatre. Its gilded dome, composed of 36,000 French tiles, is made to a special design to reflect the colours of Brazil’s national flag. Today the Opera House has been restored to its former splendour and is home to the Amazonas Philharmonic Orchestra.

Essential information

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. Dress code will be smart casual. The performance will last approximately 1 hour. Passengers are advised that due to the design and layout of the theatre, you may not be allocated your preferred seat on arrival. Please also note that some seating may have restricted views of the stage. There are steps at the Opera House. Photography and video are not permitted inside, or used during the performance. Drinks are available for purchase in the foyer. Seats are limited, book early to avoid disappointment.

A scenic 1 hour-long ride on a regional riverboat will take you up the majestic Rio Negro River. During the boat ride, your guide will brief you about the eco-system and the dynamics of the region. Arriving at Lake Guedes, you'll transfer into a smaller motorised canoe for a short ride deeper into the narrow tributary.

Once you reach the rainforest, your local guide will lead you on foot into the jungle for your 1-hour long walk. Feel the intensity of the rainforest first-hand as you walk through the thickets of trees and dense vegetation. The vegetation of the Amazon Basin is probably the most richly varied on earth and you'll have plenty of time to absorb these surroundings. Your guide will introduce you to some of the survival techniques of the native people, such as how to build a shelter or construct a trap for small animals.

Your return to Manaus will be a 1 hour transfer by regional riverboat, during which fresh fruits and fruit juice will be available for you to enjoy.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by riverboat and on foot. This tour is only suitable for those in good physical condition. Children under 10 may not participate. This tour involves walking over some rough and uneven ground, which can be very muddy and slippery with some steep inclines in parts. Comfortable, flat, nonslip walking shoes are essential. Passengers are advised to wear a long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, a hat and sunglasses. Please also carry a raincoat, insect repellent, sunscreen and a bottle of water.