PHOTO GALLERY: BRAZIL AMAZON

2011/10/17

Amazon Ariau Towers Hotel- Rio Negros-Manaos-Brazil Amazon

PHOTO GALLERY: BRAZIL AMAZON

I spent 2 months in the thick of Brazil’s Amazon, way up the Rio Negro, at the quirky Ariau Amazon Tower Resort. The sprawling resort sits entirely off the ground on a series of wood platforms, connected by long wooden walkways. Several large octagonal wooden towers house the rooms, dining halls, offices, and recreation facilities. The elevated construction is neccessary because the Amazon’s water levels vary by more than 10 feet throughout the year, as the seasons cycle between dry and monsoon seasons.

Ariau’s more remote walkways reveal lakes, marshes, and thick jungle. Almost hidden in the furthest reaches of the resort are several curious platforms with a tall tree house lookout ‘tower’, a metal geodesic dome looking very much like a space craft, and a specially marked open platform for alien landings, believe it or not. Somebody down there clearly believes in alien visitations to Earth.

During my stay, I also visited and explored the charming Amazonian river port town of Manaus, about 2 hours down river from Ariau. Manaus also holds many unexpected surprises. Turns out that over a century ago a group of wealthy Eurpeans inhabited Manaus. They constructed many elegant, regal European colonial buildings, including an Opera House, which still stand today. Who would expect to find a European Opera in the middle of th Amazon? The Europeans left another clear mark of their occupation- most Manaus residents look European, not Negroid or native Indian like Brazilians in most other parts of the country.

Manaus’ bustling harbor, local markets, and somewhat seedy streets are also fascinating places to explore.

This gallery is a collection of photos of both Manaus and the environs of Ariao Amazon Towers Resort. Hope you enjoy! SEE GALLERY