Amazon Rainforest Expedition

January 24-February 3, 2011.

Come join the ICE AXE Crew for The AMAZON RAINFOREST Expedition January 2011.

ICE AXE led an incredible amazon Expedition in 2010 and returns this year for another exciting expedition up the Rio Negro fishing for peacock bass, piranha, and view some most amazing wildlife such as Tucans, monkeys and caimon. This expedition will be unique as we will travel with world renowned guides and scientists up the Rio Negro from Manaus to Barcelos, the ornamental fish capital of the world. Learn from the experts about about this very special area’s history, folklore and culture. Bird and monkey watching, sport fishing, swimming, snorkeling, jungle walks, stalking night animals, and visiting local communities are a few of the activities to keep us busy. The expedition starts in the Brazilian city on Manaus and returns to the city 10 days later.

The cruise is a fabulous 11 days, 10 nights. The all inclusive (excluding drinks) package is $4,000 per person for a shared double cabin on a well equipped river cruiser with air conditioning and private bath. Your much appreciated donation will be used toward Ice Axe Kid’s programs.

Day 1 : We will meet you all at the airport and take you to the M/V Victoria Regia. Most Brazilian domestic connecting flights arrive Manaus International Airport between 12:00pm-2:00pm. We will sail to sail to the wedding of waters, a the spectacular view where the black (Rio Negro) and white water (the Amazon) meet— Guinness meets Bass. We will stay in the lake overnight and explore the area after dinner.

Day 2 : Enjoy an early morning visit to the lake shore to see animals wake up and see giant queen lily pads (Victoria amazonica). We will spend the day exploring the Amazon River, lakes and streams in wooden canoes. Sun, rain and bugs are common in the “white” water rivers, due to higher nutrient in the water. We will also do piranha fishing and see who gets whom first. Fishing for Peacock Bass. We will then sail to a lake and explore lake and night life after dinner.

Day 3 : Early morning tours of the Várzea Lake, visit local village. Then we will travel back to Manaus to sail up the Rio Negro. Fishing for Peacock Bass.

Day 4-5: Exploring waterfalls and rapids in Rio Cueiras and Igarape Atuia; penetrating lower reaches of the Rio Branco. Visit the Big Tree Island to enjoy the hidden beauty of the jungle, streams and beaches. Fishing for Peacock Bass.

Day 6: Arrive in Barcelos, ornamental fish capital of the Rio Negro. Visit a local village and join a local beach party.

Day 7: Attend the unforgettable Barcelos Fish Festival. Live music, dancing and local , authentic cuisine.

Day 8: We will wake up at the mouth of the Igrape Zamula. This will be a day of adventure for those who like to get wet. Our research team will be trawling in the channel and later a soccer match with the crew and an evening beach party. Fishing for Peacock Bass.

Day 9: We will head back down the Rio Negro on a different side to visit more beautiful streams, waterfalls, and a local village. In Novo Airao, we will have a chance to swim with the pink dolphins and purchase nice wood carvings from local boat builders. Fishing for Peacock Bass.

Day 10 : We will return to Manus in the morning visit local fish market and Opera house. Enjoy an afternoon walk and Brazilian BBQ lunch. Visit a small fish farm and enjoy a final party that night.

Day 11 : Last minute shopping and return home.

*There is also a side trip to a Jungle Lodge that can be added on at an additional charge. This would include visiting a monkey hospital, turtle rescue area, indigenous people, and a night time jungle hike. Please let us know of your interest in adding this on to your trip. There are 2, 3, & 4 day packages being offered.

Please contact ICE AXE for more information about the Amazon Rainforest Expedition.