Cleaved in two by the mighty Amazon River and swathed in thick impenetrable rainforest, this colossal region remains largely underexplored. The forest here is home to an almost unfathomable diversity of species – plant, mammal, insect, reptile and aquatic – and supports numerous indigenous groups, many of which have yet to have any contact with the outside world. Manaus is the entry point to the Amazonas region and lies close to the spectacular ‘meeting of the waters’ where the black waters of the River Negro and the brown waters of the Solimoes River meet. From Manaus head into the rainforest – a must for any visit – and stay in a lodge or join a week-long cruise. Home to alligator, piranha, anaconda, incredible birdlife and the elusive jaguar, the Amazon offers unrivalled adventure. Pettitts specialises in providing quality, tailor-made holidays and tours to the Amazon.