natural phenomenon · Manaus, AM
Encontro das Águas
The black waters of the Rio Negro and the muddy waters of the Solimões run side by side for kilometers without mixing, because of differences in temperature and density. The boat trip usually continues to the igapós (flooded forests) and giant water lilies.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Encontro das Águas
The Encontro das Águas (Meeting of the Waters) is the spot, just downstream from Manaus, where the Rio Negro joins the Solimões to form the Amazon. The dark waters of the Negro and the muddy waters of the Solimões run side by side for kilometers before mixing, with a sharp line separating the two colors.
The phenomenon comes from the differences between the rivers. The Negro is warmer, more acidic and slower; the Solimões is cooler, faster and carries a lot of sediment. That is why the waters take so long to blend. In 2010 the meeting was listed by Iphan (the national heritage institute) as Brazilian cultural heritage.
You visit by boat. The boats stop right on the line, where you can see the color change up close and, sometimes, river dolphins. Many tours then continue to the lakes and igapós on the opposite bank, with a stop to see giant water lilies and lunch at a floating restaurant.
The trip requires no physical effort, but it involves getting on and off floating platforms, which can be hard for people with limited mobility. In the middle of the river the sun is strong and there is little shade outside the boat.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A quick trip just to the meeting point takes a few hours; the full tour, with igapós and lunch, takes up most of the day.
Best time
In the morning, when the light is good for seeing the color contrast and it is less hot; you can see the phenomenon year-round, and in the high-water season boats also enter the igapós.
How to get there
The meeting point is east of downtown Manaus. Agency tours depart from the port downtown, and private boats leave from Porto da Ceasa, in the east zone, where the crossing to the line between the waters is short. You can reach Ceasa by car, taxi or ride-hailing app.
Tip
Bring sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent and water, and agree with the boatman beforehand on which stops are included in the trip.
A look at the place
Encontro das Águas in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Encontro das Águas
How do I see the Meeting of the Waters in Manaus?
By boat. Agency tours depart from the port downtown, and private boats leave from Porto da Ceasa, much closer to the meeting point.
How long is the Meeting of the Waters boat trip?
A quick trip from Ceasa takes a few hours. The full tour, with igapós (flooded forests), giant water lilies and lunch, takes up most of the day.
Why don't the waters of the Rio Negro and the Solimões mix?
Because the rivers differ in temperature, speed, acidity and sediment load. That is why they run side by side for kilometers before blending.
What is the best time to see the Meeting of the Waters?
You can see the phenomenon year-round. In the high-water season, tours also go into the igapós and lakes on the opposite bank.
Do you have to pay for the Meeting of the Waters tour?
Yes. The price depends on the type of tour, group or private boat, and what is included. Agree on everything before you board.