Anavilhanas National Park

Amazonas, Brazil

---

Anavilhanas National Park, located in the state of Amazonas, is a breathtaking expanse of the Amazon rainforest that protects one of the world’s largest freshwater archipelagos. Spanning over 350,000 hectares, the park encompasses more than 400 islands scattered along a 130-kilometer stretch of the Rio Negro, forming a labyrinth of waterways, flooded forests, and sandy beaches that shift with the seasons.

Established in 1981 and later reclassified as a national park in 2008, Anavilhanas is part of the Central Amazon Conservation Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, underscoring its global ecological significance. The park’s dynamic landscape is shaped by the Amazon’s flood pulse, which transforms the region from dense forest to a vast aquatic maze depending on the time of year.

During the rainy season, much of the forest is submerged, allowing for canoe exploration through igapó — blackwater-flooded forests — while the dry season reveals hidden sandbanks and trails for hiking. This ever-changing environment supports a rich diversity of life, including jaguars, giant otters, Amazon river dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species such as macaws, toucans, and harpy eagles.

Accessed primarily from the nearby town of Novo Airão or by boat from Manaus, the park offers immersive experiences like boat tours, wildlife observation, and visits to traditional riverine communities. Floating lodges and eco-friendly accommodations provide a sustainable way to engage with the Amazon’s wonders.