Top Rated Attractions in Manaus

Bosque da Ciência is a forest rich in local flora and fauna. This area is home to several wild animals like monkeys, sloths, turtles, otters and myriad tropical birds. There is also a manatee pool with underwater windows. Many species of plants, including poisonous and medicinal plants, and many trails and treks that attract hoards of tourists can be found here. Tours are held here throughout the year.

Tucked away on the leafy Avenida Eduardo Ribeiro, this stately edifice is one of the most recognizable feature of the street. Constructed in a harmonious blend of French and English styles, Palácio da Justiça is one of the city's architectural gems. Built in 1900, the beautiful edifice functioned as the region's courthouse for a large part of the century, before being transformed into a cultural center. Today, Palácio da Justiça hosts a steady program of artistic and cultural events, and is open for visits to the general public.

Centro Cultural Palácio Rio Negro was formerly the home to the governor and the seat of the government. Today it is a major space for exhibitions, concerts and other cultural activities. The exhibitions here showcase beautiful Brazilian art and sculpture of local artists. This place also has book launches, plays and literary events. The regal edifice has striking architectural details, and is an instantly recognizable feature of the street. Drop by for a taste of local culture.

For anyone with an interest in understanding the Amazon, Museu da Amazônia is a must-visit. With displays that highlight the historical, scientific and cultural significance of the Amazon basin, this museum is fascinating for people across age groups. Housed within the Botanical Garden, the museum features well organized exhibits, and guides are on hand should you have any questions. Many discussions, lectures and other events are also held here.

Sitting amidst the lush landscape that flanks the Tropical Manaus Ecoresort, this zoo is one of the most interesting facilities on offer at the resort. The zoo was established in 1976 to showcase a small collection of native wildlife species.Today, the zoo boasts of a rich diversity of Amazonian wildlife, with no less than 91 species. Besides marveling at the native wildlife, visitors can partake in the numerous educational programs aimed at spreading awareness. Prior permission to visit is required for guests not staying at the resort.

The rubber boom, which lasted from 1879 to 1912, is one of the most significant events in the history of the Amazon Basin, both economically and socially, and those wishing to learn more about it should definitely pay a visit to Museu do Seringal Vila Paraíso. A short boat ride away from Manaus, the museum has created a typical rubber estate, showing visitors some of the hardships the workers faced in order to make the prosperity of the boom a reality. Visitors can learn about the rubber tapping process and also get to see what a rubber baron's abode looked like. Although its historical value is tremendous, the fact that it served as the location for the 2002 Portuguese film A Selva makes Museu do Seringal Vila Paraíso all the more fascinating.