Presidente Figueiredo: the paradise of Amazonian waterfalls

By Geraldo Gurgel

Located near the capital of Amazonas, Presidente Figueiredo stands out as one of the main ecotourism and adventure tourism destinations in the region. It's no wonder that the municipality, situated on the lower Rio Negro, 130 km from Manaus, is known as the "Land of Waterfalls" due to its abundant offerings of swimming spots, jungle, grottoes, caves, and, of course, waterfalls.

More than 100 waterfalls of various sizes and shapes, as well as rapids, have already been cataloged. Most of the attractions allow for the practice of extreme and adventure sports such as rafting, tubing, kayaking, zip-lining, rappelling, caving, tree climbing, and jungle trails. The Balbina hydroelectric dam lake also has tourist potential.


President Figueiredo. Photo: Embratur

The city has approximately 33 inhabitants and offers a good range of accommodation and restaurants. The main attractions offer complete infrastructure, including the Berro D'Água Waterfall, the Iracema Falls Tourist Complex, the Pássaros Waterfall, and the Urubuí Park. Adventure tourism is a strong point of local attractions. The municipality is already a popular destination for Manaus residents during weekends and holidays, as well as for tourists eager for jungle itineraries.

BR-174, which cuts through the Amazon rainforest, is the main access highway, connecting Presidente Figueiredo to Manaus; Boa Vista, the capital of Roraima; and the border town of Santa Elena de Uairén, in Venezuela.

At the Tourist Information Center (CAT), located at the entrance to the city, visitors will find a photo exhibition showcasing the region's natural beauty, which can help them choose what to see and do in Presidente Figueiredo.


President Figueiredo. Photo: Embratur

Before starting any tour, don't forget to hire a guide and pick up a map showing the location of all the attractions in the municipality. The Ministry of Tourism team, aiming to promote the destinations of the Olympic torch relay, has selected two itineraries for tourists to explore some of Presidente Figueiredo's attractions. These are options for visitors spending a weekend or long holiday in the municipality.

Balbina Road, AM-240:

Maroaga Cave – Km 07;

Berro D' agua Waterfall – Km 11;

Private Natural Heritage Reserve, sanctuary with zip line and trails – Km 12;

Porteira Waterfall – Km 13;

Birds Waterfall – Km 13; and

Pedra Furada Waterfall – Km 57.

 
BR-174:

Onça Private Natural Heritage Reserve – Km 108;

Santa Marta Farm – Km 110;

Lajes Creek – Km 113;

Iracema Falls Tourist Complex – Km 115; and

Boa Esperança Community – KM 120 with rapids, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon), waterfalls, hiking and forest trails.

Amazonian Beauty


President Figueiredo. Photo: Embratur

On both routes, visitors will encounter imposing stone walls, soil with roots and foliage typical of the rainforest, and flowing amber-colored waters. The scenery distinguishes the waterfalls and caves of Presidente Figueiredo from similar attractions located in other regions of the country. The jungle environment is unique. The beauty and charm come from the wild aspect and the feeling of isolation provided by the natural environment of the Amazon. The attractions, nestled in ancient rocks, are surrounded by the intense green of the forest. Visitors have the sensation of being lost in an oasis in the middle of the world's largest tropical rainforest.

Curiosity - The municipality's name is a tribute to João Batista de Figueiredo Tenreiro Aranha, the first president (former imperial governor) of the province of Amazonas. The then-President of the Republic, João Batista de Oliveira Figueiredo, reportedly rejected the tribute when the municipality was created on December 10, 1981. Its establishment was formalized with the general elections of 1982 and the inauguration of the mayor and council members in 1983.