Amazon Eco-Lodge

This well-run Amazon Eco-Lodge floats on a black-water lagoon on the Mamori river, just south of the Amazon and surrounded by pristine rainforest. It's a magical place, especially at dawn and dusk when macaws, parakeets and croaking ibis fly across the water and the growling of howler monkeys creates a real jungle atmosphere. 

The 2-4 hour journey to the lodge is rewarding in itself, crossing the River Amazon and passing through the famous Meeting of the Waters before continuing along rural roads to finally climb into a motorised canoe and travel along the river to the black lake. Suddenly you spot the thatched lodge, floating some metres away from the densely forested shore, the only human habitation in view. 

Rooms provide modest comforts, although all have shower and toilet. There's no hot water and electricity is only switched on at night. Excellent meals are served buffet style in a restaurant with panoramic views over the lake.

In addition to the guided walks and boat trips organised from the lodge, you can visit a local farmstead, meet the family and wander through their fields and orchards while your guide tells you about farming along the Amazon river. You can also try your hand at piranha fishing and take canoe excursions through the forest, which is flooded between March and August. A fleet of individual canoes are at guests' disposal if you feel like going off for a paddle along the lake shore, where you may spot tropical birds, monkeys and sloths in the treetops.