Amazing Waterfalls of the Amazon – Presidente Figueiredo

Imagine a day spent wandering through lush rainforest, hopping between shimmering waterfalls, and exploring mysterious caves—all just a short drive from Manaus. This tour, costing around $70 per person, lasts about six hours and offers a window into the unspoiled beauty of Brazil’s Amazon. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit Cachoeira de Iracema, Cachoeira do Santuario, and Gruta do Refugio do Maroaga, a cave teeming with amphibians, turtles, alligators, and bats.

What really appeals to us are the stunning waterfalls — the clear, cascading waters are perfect for a refreshing swim and truly picture-perfect photo ops. The visit to the cave is another highlight, giving a rare glimpse into the Amazon’s underground world and wildlife habitat. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.

That said, a key point to keep in mind is the moderate physical fitness requirement — there’s a 30-minute hike involved, so you’ll want good walking shoes. Also, travelers seeking detailed multilingual explanations might find the guide’s English coverage limited, as some reviews suggest. This tour offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty and adventure for those who enjoy outdoor activity and wildlife encounters, especially if you’re keen on experiencing Brazil’s rainforest beyond the city.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Waterfalls: Three major clusters, including Iracema, provide great photo and swimming opportunities.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visit a cave with amphibians, turtles, alligators, and bats, plus chances to see local rain forest animals.
• Convenient & All-Inclusive: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and facility fees included, simplifying the day.
• Group Size & Duration: Small groups (up to 8 people) keep the experience intimate, with a roughly 6-hour total trip.
• Physical Activity: Expect a 30-minute hike, so good shoes and moderate fitness are advised.
• Language & Guides: Guides may speak around 80% English, but some reviews note limited explanations, especially for non-Portuguese speakers.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & First Stop: Parque Do Urubui

Within about 30 minutes from Manaus, you’ll arrive at Parque Do Urubui, an entry point into the lush Amazon region. The visit here is brief, but it serves as a gentle introduction to the landscape. It’s a free stop with a chance to stretch your legs before the more immersive parts of the tour begin.

Exploring the Waterfalls: Cachoeira de Iracema & Cachoeira do Santuario

The star attractions are the waterfalls—Cachoeira de Iracema and Cachoeira do Santuario—each offering distinct experiences.

Cachoeira de Iracema is praised for its impressive cascade and tranquil pools, inviting visitors to swim and relax after the hike. Many reviewers highlight how outstanding these falls are — “The waterfalls are really outstanding, totally recommend seeing them,” says Simona from her April 2025 visit.

Cachoeira do Santuario offers another stunning cascade, with two hours allotted for each stop. Expect to spend time taking photos, enjoying the cool waters, and soaking in the scenery. Beth, who visited in January, describes it as “an amazing experience,” emphasizing the accommodations made for different languages and preferences, and the delicious lunch.

The Cave: Gruta do Refugio do Maroaga

One of the tour’s most unique features is the visit to Gruta do Refugio do Maroaga. This cave contains a shallow stream, making it an ideal spot for both exploring and swimming. It’s also a habitat for various Amazonian creatures like amphibians, turtles, and bats — offering a close-up look at the rainforest’s underground world.

According to reviews, “The caves give a good insight into the Amazon’s underground environment,” and the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat is a highlight. Be prepared for a 30-minute hike to reach this spot, so sturdy shoes are a good idea.

Wildlife & Ecology

Throughout the day, your guide will share insights about the local ecology. Many reviews note that guides are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. One review mentions, “Miguel was an incredible guide, very attentive and spoke Spanish during the trip,” which is helpful for non-Portuguese speakers.

Wildlife is abundant in this unspoiled forest, making the trip not just scenic but also an educational experience. From alligators lurking in the streams to colorful birds and bats, the variety of Amazon animals is impressive.

Transport & Group Size

This tour operates with a small group limit (up to 8 travelers), which fosters a more personalized experience. The transportation is via a small bus, and the pickup and drop-off at your hotel make logistics hassle-free. The total trip is around 11 hours, including travel time from Manaus, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Value for Money

For $70, you get a well-rounded experience that includes transfers, entrance fees, and a local guide. The inclusion of a good lunch adds to the value, especially considering the remote locations visited. Many travelers highlight the quality of the scenery and wildlife, making it a worthwhile expense if you’re eager to see genuine Amazonian landscapes.

Considerations & Caveats

While most reviews are positive, some mention that the guides’ explanations in English might be limited. If you’re not fluent in Portuguese or Spanish, you should manage expectations regarding detailed commentary. Also, the timing can vary—some reviewers note that the tour lasts longer than the advertised six hours, so flexibility is beneficial.

The physical demands shouldn’t be overlooked. The 30-minute hike and some uneven terrain require decent shoes and moderate fitness. People with mobility issues may find this tour challenging.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to see the Amazon’s waterfalls and caves firsthand. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of walking, enjoy wildlife, and appreciate guided insights into rainforest ecology. It also suits travelers who want a small-group, intimate adventure away from large tourist crowds.

If you’re a family with older or less mobile members, consider their comfort with walking and hiking. For solo travelers or couples seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this trip offers a chance to connect deeply with the natural world of the Amazon.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure, natural beauty, and convenience. The guides’ local knowledge enriches the experience, and the stunning waterfalls are worth the early start and longer hours. You’ll leave with memorable photos, wildlife sightings, and a real appreciation for the raw beauty of Brazil’s rainforest.

The price reflects good value for the number of sites visited and the inclusive nature of the trip. While it might not be suited for those seeking detailed historical stories or a very slow-paced day, it’s an excellent choice for active travelers eager to explore the Amazon’s natural highlights.

In the end, if you’re after a close-up view of Amazon waterfalls and caves, with wildlife and scenery that will stay with you long after, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

• What does the tour include?
  It includes a local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance and facility fees, and a good lunch.

• How long does the tour last?
  Approximately six hours, but some reviews suggest it can be a bit longer depending on conditions.

• Is there any physical activity involved?
  Yes, there’s about a 30-minute hike, so good walking shoes are recommended.

• Can I swim in the waterfalls and cave?
  Yes, swimming is encouraged at the waterfalls and in the cave’s shallow stream, which is part of the experience.

• Is it suitable for children?
  Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical demands mean it’s better suited for those with moderate fitness.

• What languages does the guide speak?
  The guide speaks about 80% English, but some reviews mention limited explanations for non-Portuguese speakers.

• How many people are in each group?
  The group size is limited to 8 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.

• Are there any accessibility issues?
  The tour is not recommended for people with mobility problems due to walking and uneven terrain.

• What should I bring?
  Wear good walking shoes, bring a swimsuit if you want to swim, and have sun protection and insect repellent on hand.

This Amazon waterfalls tour offers a genuine, exciting, and beautiful day in Brazil’s rainforest — perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the wild side.