The well-run Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge not far from Manaus is a great choice for families, those short of time or anyone seeking a taste of life in the rainforest without going too far or in-depth. It is also a good alternative to staying in the city itself. With more of a typical hotel feel than some of the smaller, more intimate lodges, it offers a relaxing stay and some really good home-cooked food.

This lodge is the closest to Manaus in our portfolio, just a half-hour launch ride away from the pier at Punta Negra – you can get here direct from the airport in less than an hour. However, apart from the occasional bit of aircraft noise, you wouldn’t know you were so close to a large city: the surrounding forest is pristine. There are very few mosquitoes and you safely swim in the black waters off the sandy river bank.

The modern but rustic wooden cabins are scattered throughout well-tended grounds. Here you’ll find the best gardens of all the Brazilian Amazon lodges, with plenty of birds and a white sand beach dotted with sun loungers (during the Dec-July high waters only). There is 7 km river frontage of tropical rain forest, an al fresco restaurant, a pavilion with hammocks, natural swimming pool, gift shop and bar.

Each cabin has three self-contained guestrooms, each with a private veranda. The cabins have large picture windows and are air-conditioned, with good lighting, a firm mattress, plenty of space for belongings and a hot shower. Electricity is available except for during a short period in the morning and afternoon. 

There's a good range of excursions and activities to enjoy in the lush surroundings, including guided jungle walks, a show featuring indigenous dancing, and visits to 'Monkey Island': the home of a charitable foundation that cares for abandoned and vulnerable monkeys in the wild. You can visit them at feeding time when they swing down from the surrounding trees.