There are indeed roads that run through the entanglement of vegetation of the biggest forest in the world but the most natural and obvious pathways are undeniably the waterways, as wide as the sea, with no horizon in sight.
Here the boat is king, a means of travel for man alone, as much for the transport of produce as of passengers.
From Manaus and Belem, from Rio Solomon and Rio Negro, from the State of Roraima to the State of Acre, these superb boats, which are typical of the Amazon Basin, are admired.
Entirely made out of wood, they are rounded in shape with potbellied hulls and their curved drawbridges, like a huge toy, designed by an architect inspired by his plump muse.
Their lovely outlines tirelessly cut through this immense river network, slashing through the calm waters of the larger rivers, crossing a shoal of botos (freshwater dolphins) or accompanying the flight of a group of egrets interrupted from their fishing.
It makes up the most ideal way to learn about the mysteries of the Amazon whether it be on a regular boat with hammocks strung along the bridge, or in the comfort of cabins designed for a touristy cruise.

During the afternoon, we deliver ourselves to the floating pier, where a permanent bustle reigns between the dozens of colorful wooden barges and boats.
After buying a hammock (each one comes with its own, except for the passengers of the cabins) and a rope to attach our bag to the ceiling, we embark on one of the boats descending the large river towards its delta, still a few thousand miles away.

We selected them because they allow the trip between the two capitals of the Amazon for a reasonable price while sharing the life of Amazonian people.
Entrance included. Lunch open. Dinner included. Night on board.
Note: trip without guide.

Arrival in Santarém at around 05:00 A vehicle awaits us on the pier to drive us (group service) towards Alter do Chão, the pearl of the Amazon. Program open.
The charm of the village and of its paradisiacal white sand beaches and their coconut trees have created the reputation of this beach resort, which has remained, despite the fact, a simple and welcoming little town.  Return to Santarém early afternoon. Around 15:00 (N/M Santarém) or around 16:00 (N/M Nêlio Corrêa), the boat follows its descent towards Belém.
Lunch included in Alter do Chão. Dinner included on board. Night on board.

The boat and its occupants seem to be propelled by the tranquil power of the river.
Sometimes, Indians on board canoes come to the encounter of our boat to sell artichoke hearts, fresh-water shrimps or handicraft.
On the second deck, where the multicolored hammocks swing softly, life is constituted of a multitude of small scenes. Here we play dominos, there we discuss between passengers, further over some exercise.
We can stay in the role of the observer, but we can also start a conversation with Amazonians curious and respectful of the foreigner. Whether we speak the language or only a few rudiments of "portugnol", it is always possible to communicate.

Last day of our cruise. As we approach Belém, the air takes on marine scents while seagulls join our trip.
Arrival in Belém towards 21:00.
Lunch included. Dinner open.
Option: Pick up at the pier and transfer to hotel. Night in hotel.