Traveling to the Amazon in Northern Brazil from the US or Europe is fairly easy as there are direct flights to Manaus from Miami airport. The Government of Brazil requires a tourist visa from both Canadian and USA citizens, and most European countries. A visa can be issued in any Brazilian Embassy, usually found in many big cities of North America and Europe. A visitor may also complete the printable visa application form online and send it via regular mail. Travel agencies usually take care of visas and other paperwork for the trip.

Fishermen coming to the Amazon for the first time are often concerned about the jungle. Most of this fear is based on myth rather than truth. The reality is that the dark water rivers are a very safe section of the Amazon, exotic diseases are rare and there is really no real need to take extraordinary precautions. Due to the acidity of “black” water rivers, mosquitoes and other biting insects are few and far between. However, if you spend time on-shore, in a camp or in the local towns, bring the bug-spray.

One creature that is dangerous enough to worry about is the stingray. These things can be sudden killers (just ask Steve Erwin, the crocodile hunter, RIP), or at least wound a person and ruin their trip. The local guides often instruct people on how to wade through the shallows correctly to avoid stepping on these creatures. One other potential danger is the Sun itself. It is much stronger and hotter during the later summer and autumn months than most places in North America or Europe. Local people are used to it, but pale-skinned Americans or Europeans may have some trouble with it. So bring some strong sun-screen and use it wisely.

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