Cristalino's Floating Deck | Photo Credit: Luis Gomes

A visit to the Amazon Jungle is a dream come true for many. But arriving at this iconic rainforest is not easy or cheap. If you’re going to invest your time, effort and money into traveling to one of the most remarkable places on Earth, then you better do it right!

These amazing Amazon tours are sure to provide that once-in-a-lifetime experience you deserve:

Cristalino River and Floating Deck | Photo Credit: Samuel Melim

Cristalino Lodge

Chosen as one of the 25 best eco-lodges in the world by National Geographic, this sanctuary in the Southern Amazon goes above and beyond in every way possible. The rooms are chic yet sustainable, the food is decadently delicious, and the Amazon adventures are laced with magic and mystery.

At Cristalino Lodge, each guest is assigned a personal guide and small group for the duration of their stay. Typically there are two daily expeditions, including hiking through the forest and drifting down the river. Climb up their two 164-foot towers for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding jungle canopy and be on the look out for birds, capybaras, jaguars, river otters, and more.

Photo Credit: Henrique Marassi

Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge

This cozy and secluded jungle hotel lies in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, 111 miles from Manaus. There are a variety of all-inclusive packages ranging from three day trips to week-long adventures. Tours include a visit to see the famed pink dolphins, guided forest hikes, recreational piranha fishing, and starlit night tours.

The jungle lodge itself is divine and exclusive, with a variety of cottages and bungalows to choose from. While it may feel a bit odd to have air conditioning and Sky HD TV in the middle of the Amazon, sometimes the extra comfort is worth the splurge.

Photo Credit: Flickpicpete

Amazon Gero Tours

You don’t have to venture all the way to the middle of the Amazon to have a remarkable jungle adventure. Amazon Gero Tours is based just three hours from Manaus, but consistently receives excellent reviews and top ratings.

There are several packages available that cater to all budgets, from backpackers to luxury travelers that range from multi-day treks to houseboat adventures, and sustainability programs that give back to the local community. Not only can you create the memories of a lifetime, but you can feel good doing it!

Photo Credit: lcrf

Heart of the Amazon Voyage

One of the best ways to explore the Amazon is by boat, and there are few ways better to do it than a Heart of the Amazon Voyage by REI. This river expedition will take you down the Rio Negro to its confluence with the Amazon, where you’ll enjoy pristine jungle-scapes from a private, air-conditioned room. Led by a resident naturalist, he’ll point out wildlife along the densely forested jungle route as you swim and kayak in the river.

A visit to the Amazon is a unique experience that should be on every intrepid traveler’s bucket list. Choose any of the fantastic tours above, and you’re sure to have the trip of your dreams!