Anavilhanas National Park

Anavilhanas National Park is a protected area in the Rio Negro river featuring around 400 islands shaped by flooded forests and river ecosystems. The landscape includes channels running between the islands and creates a complex network of water and vegetation.

The area was established as an ecological station in 1981 and gained national park status in 2008. This change reflected growing focus on protecting the Amazon region and its valuable habitats.

Local communities have adapted their lives to the river's rhythm and use traditional knowledge to work with seasonal changes. Visitors can observe this way of life in small settlements along the shores, where people live closely connected to the forest and water.

Boat tours depart from Novo Airão and travel through river channels between the islands, with local guides who know the routes. It works best to go early in the day for wildlife viewing and to experience the water at its calmest.

Water levels swing about 10 meters between seasons, completely transforming the landscape. This extreme change creates specialized habitats where pink river dolphins and giant otters thrive.

Location: Novo Airão

Inception: 1981

Elevation above the sea: 100 m

Operator: Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade

Part of: Central Amazon Conservation Complex

Website: https://icmbio.gov.br/parnaanavilhanas

GPS coordinates: -2.39472,-60.92056

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04