The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Novo Airao & Parque Nacional de Anavilhanas

Things to know before you go to Novo Airao

• Entry requirements: No special permits are required to visit Novo Airão itself, but visiting some conservation areas or indigenous communities may require prior authorisation through tour operators or local authorities.

• Best time to visit: The region has two main seasons: high water (April to August) and low water (September to March). Beaches along the Rio Negro start to appear in the dry season, generally from November for about four months, but this varies each year.

• Currency and payments: Novo Airão has only one ATM, so it is best not to rely on it. Bring the cash you need from Manaus. Many businesses, but not all, do accept credit card.

• Health precautions: Vaccination for yellow fever is recommended for travel in the Amazon. Mosquito repellent and light long-sleeved clothing are useful to reduce insect bites. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is highly recommended.

• Connectivity: Mobile phone coverage and internet access is limited, especially when travelling to remote areas outside of Novo Airao town itself. Within Novo Airao, some accommodations offer Starlink internet.

• Responsible tourism: Interactions with wildlife, such as pink river dolphins, should be through recognised operators who follow conservation guidelines. When visiting indigenous communities, ask permission before taking photos and respect local customs.

• Packing essentials: Bring light clothing, a waterproof bag for electronics, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes for hikes, a reusable water bottle, and cash for small purchases.

• Weather: Expect high humidity and hot temperatures year-round. Rain can occur even in the dry season, so pack rain gear or waterproof covers for your belongings.

Is Novo Airao safe for tourists

Novo Airao is a small and quiet town, and is safe for tourists. Being aware of your surroundings will go a long way in avoiding trouble.

These are my personal recommendations for ways you can stay safe in Novo Airao:

• Don't walk around with large amounts of cash, carry only the cash you need for the day or a credit card

• At night, stick to the main streets or paths where other visitors and locals are walking

• Ask your pousada or host if you are unsure about the best routes or areas to explore

Travel insurance for Novo Airao

Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into a costly and time-consuming disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak.

I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs.

When travelling to the Amazon Rainforest, it is especially important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation, as the remote location can make access to specialised care more difficult.

For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing, and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here.