Experience Aromatic Adventures in the Amazon Rainforest

By: Visitbrasil.com

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most impressive and biodiverse natural wonders on the planet. Considered the largest tropical forest in the world, it harbors an incomparable wealth of wildlife, unique ecosystems, and ancient indigenous cultures. Spending six days immersed in the Uatumã Sustainable Development Reserve, departing from Manaus, is a great opportunity to reconnect with nature and explore new horizons. Those who embark on a journey like this return home transformed. It’s an experience that goes beyond a simple trip; it’s a journey for the senses, mind, and soul.

What is an Aromatic Tour?

Led by an aromatherapy specialist, this six-day adventure takes you deep into the Amazon Rainforest. Travelers you will visit fairs with oils, coffees, chocolates, and local spices; practice the distillation of white breu essential oil – a resin extracted from the tree of the same name, native to the Amazon; extract copaiba oil-resin, and much more.

Explore the everyday life of the forest by participating in a typical party in the Caribi community, engaging in roundtable discussions, listening to stories and legends with the river dwellers, visiting a forest recovery agroforestry system, observing the night sky from canoes, and even taking a river bath.

Six-days of immersion

Your 6-day immersion in the Amazon Rainforest is a blend of cultural encounters, sensory experiences, and deep connection with nature

On the first day, the acclimatization begins. You will stay in a hotel in downtown Manaus and can take the time to visit places like the Amazon Theatre, one of the most important in Brazil and the main postcard of the city. You will be dazzled by its architecture, grandeur, and pink color! Don’t miss exploring the Mercado Municipal, where you will have the pleasure of tasting regional food, learning about herbs and typical products, and buying crafts, decorations, and souvenirs from the Amazon. In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious dinner with regional cuisine.

The second day starts with a two-hour boat trip. You will stay at a lodge in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. The entire tour takes place in the Uatumã Sustainable Development Reserve. Enjoy the regional lunch because it is divine. At night, you will experience a unique and indescribable connection with nature: aboard a canoe, you will contemplate the sky directly from the Amazon. It’s thrilling.

The more intense activities begin on the third day. You will witness the release of tracajás – famous freshwater turtles – and learn about Breu trees. In the late afternoon, you will experience cultural immersion in the Caribi community. The experience includes roundtable discussions with forest stories and legends and lots of music. End the day with a delightful river bath. It’s incredibly relaxing.

This tour wouldn’t be complete without a hike. On the fourth day, you will walk through the Amazon Rainforest to understand the entire process of extracting copaiba oleoresin, a typical Amazonian tree, carried out by the river dwellers living in the region. Additionally, you will learn about several ancient trees along the way. An incredible sensory experience. Later, choose a spot by the river to enjoy a beautiful sunset and update your travel photo album.

The fifth day will be full of activities. In the morning, a visit to an Agroforestry System will give you an insight into the work of recovering Pau Rosa – a native plant that was exploited inadequately and is now undergoing sustainable management. You will meet the forest guardians who will talk about 16 years of recovery of a degraded area and teach the difference between predatory and sustainable management.

In the afternoon, you will accompany the distillation of Breu essential oil at the oil cooperative. It’s a very fragrant and educational class. Afterward, you can enjoy some time at the Amazonian products fair and even buy souvenirs from your trip. The day ends with a facial spa using clay and Breu hydrate, incredibly relaxing.

This experience comes to an end on the sixth day. It begins with breakfast at the lodge, followed by a river and road journey back to Manaus. Lunch in the city center is guaranteed in this experience. Check into the hotel and enjoy your last night in the capital of Amazonas.

Stay Updated!

A tour like this happens all year round, but departures are scheduled. It’s ideal to keep an eye on available dates to organize your trip. Another important point is safety. So, hire tours that follow safety standards and provide necessary equipment. It’s worth noting that this 6-day tour can be adapted for English speakers, giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy this incredible experience.

Curious about what you can experience in the Amazon Rainforest and other Brazilian destinations?

Follow Visit Brasil on social media to learn more – @visitbrasil.

About Visitbrasil

Our mission is to present Brazil to the world as a country of incredible and sustainable destinations, fostering local economic and social development.

Leave Your Mark, Not Your Footprint: A Guide to Sustainable Travel in Spain

By: Turespaña

It might not come as a surprise that Spain is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world for its vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. But did you know that Spain is a global leader in sustainable travel innovation? Hop on a reduced-emission train to explore a sustainable Spain – from eco-conscious adventures through protected national parks and stays on organic farms to socially conscious experiences like community cultural exchanges. Ready to leave a positive mark on Spain, while creating memories that will last a lifetime?

Eco-Friendly Hiking Trails

From north to south, Spain is brimming with protected national parks and hiking trails that not only offer opportunities to immerse yourself in stunning nature, but also to learn about its world-class conservation efforts.

Whether it’s a trek into the UNESCO protected mountains of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in the north, the coastal cliffs of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park in the south, or the ancient laurel forests of Garajonay National Park on the Canary Islands, there is a protected trail for every type of trekker.

Want to travel across the country the way pilgrims have been doing for centuries? The Camino de Santiago is an immersive way to experience Spain’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Leading to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain, this network of pilgrimage routes is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the country the way pilgrims once did, while visiting the small rural towns and lesser-traveled cities of today. You can choose to do the journey on foot, bike, or even horse! Pilgrims are encouraged to minimize their footprint with Leave No Trace principles and support local businesses along the way.

Bardenas Reales
Photo Courtesy of *Turespaña*

Immersive Experiences: Organic Vineyard Visits, Bike Tours & Sustainable Surfing

Throughout the country, locals are finding ways to showcase their home to visitors in uniquely eco & socially conscious ways.

In La Mancha, organic vineyards offer tours and tastings that showcase sustainable viticulture practices. Visitors can participate in grape harvesting experiences while, of course, trying some of their delicious wines.

In Bardenas Reales Natural Park, biking tours allow travelers to discover otherworldly landscapes on wheels while learning about local conservation efforts to protect the park’s unique ecosystem.

On the Basque coast, the surf schools of Zarautz are inviting students to join in on beach clean-up initiatives, learn about the ocean, and take part in marine conservation projects.

In cities, you can find “intercambios” or language exchanges happening nearly any day of the week, offering a unique opportunity to connect with locals and share your language and culture, while learning theirs.

Travelers looking to dive even deeper into a local community can participate in a cultural exchange program, where they can experience a truly authentic side of Spain by living with a host family, joining in on cultural activities, and volunteering in the local community.

Casa Rural Navarra
Photo Courtesy of *Turespaña*

Sustainable Accommodations: From “Casas Rurales” in the Countryside to Eco-Lodges in the Mountains

Trade in the chain hotels for a more authentic stay in Spain’s countryside. Throughout the country, you can find family-owned “casas rurales” that showcase the perfect blend of rural hospitality and sustainable living. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Spain’s rolling hills, visitors can participate in hands-on activities like harvesting fresh produce on organic farms or participating in permaculture workshops.

For a different perspective of Spain’s natural beauty, head into the mountains to unplug in sustainable eco-lodges, found throughout the country. Guided hikes through ancient forests lead to hidden waterfalls and centuries-old chestnut groves, while connecting with local communities to learn about their rural revitalization efforts.

Asturias, Spain
Photo Courtesy of *Turespaña*

Eco-Friendly Transportation

Now, how to get to all these places? Spain has created low-emission transportation to move within its cities, and across the country.

To cover ground in bigger cities throughout the country, you’ll find local bike sharing apps that allow you to cheaply and easily rent a bike to see the city. You can find bike sharing in capital cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and mid-size cities like Santander, Seville, Zaragoza, and Bilbao – to name a few! Just download the local bike sharing app, hop on a bike, and you’re off.

To zip across the country, jump on a high-speed, low-emission train, generated by 100% electric power.

Another option is to travel with locals on trusted ride-sharing apps that safely connect you with drivers heading to the same destination.

Valencia, Spain
*Photo Courtesy of *Turespaña*//Visit Valencia*

Valencia: European Green Capital 2024

Valencia has been recognized as the European Green Capital for 2024, a testament to the city’s dedication to sustainability and environmental innovation. This prestigious title highlights Valencia’s efforts to promote eco-friendly urban living, enhance green spaces, and implement sustainable mobility solutions. Visitors to Valencia can explore its numerous green initiatives, such as extensive bike lanes, eco-friendly public transport, and urban gardens that contribute to the city’s vibrant, sustainable lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling through the lush Turia Gardens or enjoying a bike ride along the coast, Valencia offers a shining example of how modern cities can embrace sustainability.

Garajonay National Park
Photo Courtesy of *Turespaña*

Discover EDEN Destinations in Spain

Spain is home to several EDEN (European Destinations of Excellence) award-winning locations, recognized for their commitment to sustainable tourism. The EDEN award celebrates destinations that have successfully developed a tourism offering based on their local assets while respecting the environment and enhancing the well-being of local communities. Among these, regions like the Sierra de las Nieves in Andalusia and Ribeira Sacra in Galicia stand out for their breathtaking natural beauty and sustainable tourism practices. These destinations offer travelers a chance to explore Spain’s diverse landscapes while ensuring that their visit leaves a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Tenerife, Spain
Photo Courtesy of *Turespaña*

Ready to experience sustainable Spain?

Spain has taken massive strides to transform its everyday practices to a sustainable way of life, and locals are proud to share that with visitors. Touching every corner of its culture – from eco-conscious daily practices to socially conscious initiatives – sustainable adventures await in every corner of the country. So, hop on some low-emission wheels and experience firsthand Spain’s commitment to conservation and community – from hiking through protected mountains and surfing on conscious coastlines, to connecting with local communities to learn their way of life and contribute to their community. Now, the only question left for you is, where will you leave your mark?