The City of Manaus is located one degree south of the equator, in north central Brazil, where the Negro and Solimões rivers merge with the Amazon.

European presence began in earnest in the late 1660s, when the Portuguese Crown fortified the location to defend against Dutch encroachment from Surinam (then, Dutch Guiana), north of Brazil.

The area was named Manaus (Mother of Gods) in 1856, referring to the indigenous indian nation of the Mana—s.

In the 1890s, a boom in the natural rubber market caused the city to grow into a major economic hub. The famous City Opera House, after 15 years of contruction, was finished in 1896. It remained the largest building in all of South America for 60 years.

Today, Manaus is a modern, bustling city, with old world charm, the capital of the state of Amazonas. It is the gateway to the heart of the Amazon Jungle, which surrounds it, and is a popular ecotourist destination.

Manaus is a major seaport, a port of call to ocean cruiseships, even though it is over 1000 miles from the Atlantic.

The Lago Lodge Office is located inside the Ajuricaba Building (Hotel Amazonas) in the historic district of downtown Manaus just a five minute walk to the floating motorboat dock. Our office coordinates the trip to the jungle interior, as well as local tours.

Our office is located very close to the port and downtown, a safe and easy walk to many attractions and activities. This is the historic district, where market buildings date back to the 19th century.

In partnership with Amazon Suites , we offer reasonable accommodations in Manaus and can coordinate any tour or special request.

Amazon Suites has 30 apartments and condominium style rooms, with maid and laundry service, which range in price from 50 to 80 reals per night. Three restaurants are in the building. All rooms have the special privacy of an apartment setting, outside porches, views of the Rio Negro or the City Opera House.

The Lago Lodge office at Amazon Suites is three blocks from the floating dock where the covered launches leave for Lago Lodge.

Click here to move on to a Lago Lodge expedition