Stepping off the boat onto the wooden dock, we felt as though we had entered another world. The rich, earthy scent of the rainforest, the symphony of exotic bird calls, and the serene sight of the Rio Negro stretching into the distance immediately enveloped us in a sense of awe.
A Hidden Oasis in the Amazon
Welcome to Mirante do Gavião Amazon Lodge, a hidden gem in the heart of Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, where luxury and nature blend seamlessly. Perched on the edge of the Rio Negro and overlooking the stunning Anavilhanas National Park, this eco-lodge offers an unparalleled experience of one of the world’s most pristine biomes.
Opened in August 2014, Mirante do Gavião—meaning "hawk observatory" in English—boasts an eco-conscious design that respects the fragile Amazonian ecosystem. Anavilhanas National Park, the world’s second-largest freshwater archipelago, surrounds the lodge with untouched wilderness, offering guests an intimate encounter with the rainforest’s extraordinary biodiversity.
A Journey Into the Heart of the Amazon
Our adventure began in Manaus, the bustling gateway to the Amazon. While many visitors explore the city’s historic sites and witness the famous Meeting of the Waters, we ventured three hours deeper into the forest to fully immerse ourselves in this wild paradise.
Surprisingly, our journey didn’t lead us through dense jungle right away. Instead, civilization lingered along the way, reminding us of Manaus’ unique dependence on the river for transportation. But as we traveled further, the urban scenery faded, replaced by an untouched, emerald expanse. Finally, we arrived at Mirante do Gavião, where the reception area—built on stilts—welcomed us with its breathtaking open-air design, blending effortlessly with the natural surroundings.
Walking along the elevated wooden pathways, we were surrounded by 70 varieties of native fruit trees and plants meticulously curated by landscape designer Clariça Lima. This lodge wasn’t just in the rainforest; it was part of it.
Luxurious Accommodations with an Eco-Conscious Soul
Mirante do Gavião’s architecture mirrors its commitment to sustainability. Elevated bungalows minimize environmental impact, allowing the forest floor to breathe. The lodge’s 13 accommodations—including treehouses and bungalows—are crafted from natural fibers and locally sourced wood, blending modern comfort with regional artistry.
Our private bungalow, shaped like an inverted boat, featured a spacious balcony with panoramic views of the Rio Negro. Large glass windows brought the rainforest indoors, making us feel as if we were living within the jungle itself. The bathroom, designed like a treehouse, offered an open-air bathing experience that felt both luxurious and wild. Every detail, from handcrafted furniture to woven baskets, showcased local craftsmanship and sustainability.
Unforgettable Amazonian Adventures
Swimming with Pink Dolphins & Wildlife Encounters
One of our most surreal experiences was playing with the Amazon’s famed pink dolphins. Their playful nature made the encounter magical and unforgettable.
Our rainforest encounters didn’t stop there—right outside our bungalow, we spotted a massive green lizard scaling a nearby tree. Every moment in the Amazon reminded us that we were in the heart of nature’s kingdom.
Night Safari & Sunset Swims
A guided night tour with Nigel introduced us to the rainforest’s nocturnal wonders. With our torches off, we sped through the water in complete darkness, listening to the jungle come alive. The thrill of gliding through the pitch-black Amazon under a sky blanketed in stars was unforgettable.
During a sunset boat ride, we leaped into the Rio Negro—an exhilarating experience in the warm, tea-colored waters. Afterwards, PK grabbed a towel only to find a grasshopper lounging on it—his priceless reaction became a lasting memory of our adventure.
Additionally, on a sunset boat ride, we stopped and jumped into the Rio Negro. The guide knew exactly where it was safe and the perfect time to do it, making it the most thrilling experience.
After our swim, PK grabbed a towel, only to find a grasshopper sitting on it! His expression was priceless, a perfect mix of shock and amusement. Moments like these made the Amazon experience truly unique and memorable.
Cultural Encounters in Novo Airão & Local Communities
Visiting Novo Airão, a riverside community along the Rio Negro, provided us with an intimate look at life in the Amazon. One of the most inspiring stops was a local woodworking initiative where young artisans learn valuable craftsmanship skills while promoting sustainability. Watching them transform raw materials into intricate wooden pieces gave us a new appreciation for the region’s artistry and resourcefulness.
Our journey continued as we ventured deeper into the Amazon to reach a secluded indigenous village, accessible only by boat. Here, we witnessed a way of life deeply intertwined with nature. We admired their handmade artifacts—each telling a story of their heritage—and were surprised to see a pet hawk perched nearby, along with wild macaws adding bursts of color to the landscape.
The warmth and hospitality of the villagers made this encounter truly memorable. Their generosity and openness in sharing their traditions and their daily routines around fishing, farming and crafts offered us a profound perspective on life in the rainforest, one that thrives on balance, community, and respect for the natural world.
Exploring the Rainforest’s Medicinal Secrets
A guided hour-long trek along an interpretive trail introduced us to the Amazon’s medicinal plants. Our guides, rich with indigenous knowledge, explained how locals have used these plants for centuries. Seeing the "Sleeping Mary" plant—whose leaves fold when touched—was just one of the many fascinating discoveries along the way.
Relaxation by the Pool with a Purpose
After days filled with adventure, the lodge’s pool provided the perfect retreat. Surrounded by towering trees and offering stunning views of the rainforest, the pool transformed at night, glowing under golden lights. Floating in the refreshing water, we reflected on the Amazon’s fragility and our role in its preservation.
A Culinary Journey Through the Amazon
Dining at Camu Camu, the lodge’s on-site restaurant, was an experience in itself. Under the direction of renowned chef Debora Shornik, the menu celebrated Amazonian flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Every dish told a story—from exotic caipirinhas infused with cupuaçu and açaí to thoughtfully prepared meals that highlighted the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Learning about cupuaçu, a fruit related to cacao, added depth to our appreciation of the Amazon’s unique flavors. Each meal was an exploration of taste, tradition, and sustainability.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Beyond offering a luxurious escape, Mirante do Gavião is deeply committed to conservation and community support. The lodge collaborates with organizations like the Association of Artisans of the Jauaperi River, Almerinda Malaquias Foundation and the Association of Artisans of Novo Airão, empowering locals through education and economic opportunities.
Leaving with a Deep Connection to the Amazon
As our three-day stay came to an end, we left Mirante do Gavião with a profound appreciation for the Amazon’s beauty, resilience, and fragility. More than a holiday, this was a transformative journey.
Respecting Wildlife in Their Natural Habitat
The Amazon is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, and as visitors, it is our responsibility to observe without interfering. Keeping a respectful distance, refraining from flash photography, and resisting the urge to touch or feed animals helps preserve their natural behaviors. Every small action contributes to the delicate balance of this ecosystem, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of the rainforest in its purest form.
How to Plan Your Stay
Accommodations: 13 bungalows, including treehouses and premium suites
Booking: Not available on Expedia; book via Katerre Expeditions
Once you make the payment by credit card, Katerre will reach out to request passport information, dietary and physical restrictions and share a packing list and arrange transportation
Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccine is recommended
Get it 10 days before the trip. The vaccine is not cheap, sometimes covered by insurance and you need it only once in a life
Visa: Entry requirements may change—check before travel
Getting There: Fly into Manaus, Brazil, then travel three hours by road
Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
Choose an All-Inclusive Package: Everything—from excursions to meals—is taken care of.
Pack Light: Opt for breathable clothing and waterproof essentials.
Customize Your Adventure: Whether it’s wildlife watching or cultural immersion, tailor your itinerary.
Respect Nature & Communities: Support local artisans and minimize your environmental footprint.
Visit in Different Seasons: The flooded forest during the wet season and land-based hikes in the dry season offer distinct experiences.
Mirante do Gavião is an invitation to experience the Amazon Rain Forest in Brazil in its purest form, with adventure, luxury, and conservation intertwined.
Book your stay and discover a world untouched by time.