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MAO destination photo
BAZ destination photo

MAOBAZ

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the world's largest freshwater archipelagos, including the intricate island networks of Anavilhanas and Mariuá against the backdrop of the dark Rio Negro.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏝️

Anavilhanas Archipelago

Shortly after takeoff from Manaus, view one of the world's largest fluvial archipelagos with hundreds of elongated islands.

🗺️

Mariuá Archipelago

The world's largest river archipelago, consisting of over 700 islands, visible during the approach to Barcelos.

💧

Black Water Mirroring

The Rio Negro's dark, acidic waters create perfect reflections of the sky and clouds, especially on calm days.

🏖️

White Sand Beaches

During the dry season, stunning white sand beaches emerge along the edges of the islands and riverbanks.

🏘️

Barcelos Waterfront

A clear view of the historic town of Barcelos and its docks as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.

Secure a seat on the right side for the most iconic Amazonian geography. Fly during the dry season (September to January) to see the spectacular white sand beaches that disappear during the flood season. Morning flights (departing MAO around 8:00 AM) are ideal to avoid the typical afternoon rain showers and to ensure the sun is positioned behind the aircraft, providing perfect lighting for photography of the islands.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌳

Pristine Amazon Canopy

Dense, unbroken stretches of primary rainforest extending to the southern horizon.

🚤

River Traffic

Occasional glimpses of traditional Amazonian 'gaiola' boats navigating the main river channel.

🌤️

Atmospheric Dynamics

Dramatic tropical cloud formations and mist rising from the humid forest floor.

🏚️

Ribeirinho Settlements

Small, isolated riverbank communities that showcase the remote lifestyle of the Amazon basin.

While less island-heavy, this side provides a better sense of the sheer scale of the Amazonian wilderness. It is particularly scenic during late afternoon flights when the low sun casts long shadows over the forest canopy, highlighting the varied heights of the ancient trees.

Top Activities in Barcelos
Route Information

Distance: 392 km (244 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 39 min

Departure: MAO (-3.038609981536865, -60.04970169067383)

Arrival: BAZ (-0.981292, -62.919601)

Route Type: Domestic

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