Pictures rarely do justice to this tiny gem of a town situated on the side of the mighty Amazon. The area where the town is located has been inhabited for almost 10,000 years, and the sense of history encapsulated in this small town surrounded by emerald green forests is palpable.

Around 2,000 years ago much of the Amazon was populated in this area, with longhouses lining the sides of the world's most powerful river for miles in either direction. With the influence of the Portuguese entering and intermarrying with the native population, the majority of the longhouses disappeared, and this town at the mouth of the Valeria River where it flows into the Amazon adapted to the new situation, with some interesting results.

The Amazon cycles through both a wet, and a dry season. In the wet season the river can raise by as much as 2 meters. In Boca da Valeria, the houses are built on stilts, which make them appear to be floating on the water during the heavy rains, which last from about December to May.

When the floodwaters recede, the townsfolk go down to plant crops and let their livestock - which for the rest of the year are kept on balconies - graze on dry land. For those luckily enough to cruise the Amazon, Boca da Valeria is a stop that rewards, whether you venture on land or not. Book your travel with Carefree Travel and Cruises to enjoy the rich history and culture of this and many other Amazonian towns and cities.

Top Boca da Valeria Attractions and Activities

For the traveler who decides to stay onboard during this stop, the townsfolk will come to you, often with entertainment and always with good cheer. It is possible to barter with them for local crafts, and any gifts will be greatly appreciated. But it is the travelers who go ashore who get the real treat, as a small gift such as a pen or a soft drink will grant access to the homes of the local villagers themselves, and a glance at a way of life completely foreign to our Western experience.

Bartering is also a wonderful experience in Boca da Valeria, with local crafts available that are made the same way as they were 1,000 years ago. A craft made here will be a wonderful memento of a trip into the deepest jungle and a look at a preserved and beautiful way of life.

The town itself is situated at the mouth of the sapphire blue Valeria River, and at the side of the rich earth tones of the roaring Amazon. The forest teems with the sounds of wildlife that is truly wild, and the green forest will entice you with its myriad of emerald hues and deep mystery. When you book your travel with Carefree Travel and Cruises you are ensuring that this trip of a lifetime will be the best you ever take, with memories to last a lifetime.

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