How to get to Maués

Maués is a colourful city in the state of Amazonas, located deep within Brazil and known as the "Land of Guaraná," featuring stunning river beaches. When planning how to get to Maués, travellers usually combine different modes of transport, most often choosing domestic flights or water routes to cover the distance to this amazing corner of nature. The decision to travel to Maués will mark the beginning of an unforgettable adventure, allowing you to witness the authentic life of the Amazon.

The fastest way to reach the city is by air. Unlike many remote corners of the region, Maués has its own functioning airport (MBZ). It receives regular flights, which most often depart from Manaus, the capital of the Amazonas state. This is the most convenient way to arrive in the "Land of Guaraná," bypassing long river journeys.

Flying over the territory of Brazil in this part of the country is an experience in itself: the view from the window offers breathtaking panoramas of endless tropical forests and winding riverbeds. Travellers are advised to check flight schedules in advance, as the frequency of flights may change depending on the season.

There is no direct railway connection to this part of the Amazon, as Maués does not have its own train station. The specific landscape and dense tropical forests make laying tracks in this region an extremely difficult task, so trains do not operate here. The main transport burden in this part of Brazil falls on river vessels and light aviation.

The nearest large settlements also lack access to the passenger railway network. Even cities such as Parintins, located 138 km away, or Itaituba, located 215 km away, are inaccessible to rail travel enthusiasts. The situation is similar with the city of Juruti: it is impossible to get there by train, so tourists should choose water or air routes.

It is impossible to get to Maués exclusively by bus. The city is located in an isolated part of the Amazonas state, surrounded by dense tropical forests and numerous rivers, which makes the construction of traditional highways extremely difficult. There is no direct road connection with the major metropolises of Brazil here, so standard intercity buses do not run to this destination.

Tourists considering land routes should take into account that the trip will inevitably require combining transport. Nearby settlements, such as Parintins, Juruti, or Itaituba, are geographically relatively close but are not connected to the city by bus routes due to the lack of roads. Typically, travellers travel by land to major regional ports and cover the final part of the journey by boat or plane.

Travelling by car to Maués is a true expedition, as the city is not connected to the unified road network of Brazil and is surrounded by the dense jungles of the Amazon. The only way to get here with your own vehicle is to use cargo ferries (balsas) that navigate the rivers. This mode of travel is suitable for those who have time and wish to see the Amazon from the water, as the "road" consists of a slow voyage along winding river channels.

The most popular route runs from the city of Parintins: the straight-line distance is about 140 km, but the river journey takes from 20 to 30 hours depending on the current and the type of vessel. From the city of Itaituba, located on the famous Trans-Amazonian Highway, getting there is more difficult—it requires a combined route through Santarém, which can take more than a day. Travellers from the city of Juruti will also have to count on a long ferry crossing lasting about 15–20 hours, as direct land roads simply do not exist in this region.

A trip to Maués is an immersion into the very heart of the Amazon, requiring certain preparation due to the remoteness of the region. To ensure your trip to this unique corner of Brazil is comfortable and safe, we have compiled a list of important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Belongings: The climate here is equatorial, hot, and humid all year round. Bring light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics in light colours. Be sure to pack long-sleeved shirts and trousers for protection against insects in the evenings, as well as a high-quality raincoat.
2. Transport: Inside the city, the most popular and affordable means of transport are moto-taxis. To visit remote beaches or plantations, you will need to rent a boat or a speedboat ("voadeira") at the local port.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Despite the presence of banks, ATMs may not work or may not accept foreign cards, and small shops and markets often do not have card terminals. We strongly recommend carrying a sufficient supply of cash (in small denominations).
4. Health and Safety: The main necessity for the trip is a powerful insect repellent. Drink only bottled water and use sunscreen with a high protection factor. The city is safe, but basic precautions with valuables should be observed.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Portuguese. Very few people know English, mostly those working in the tourism sector. Download an offline translator on your phone or learn a few basic phrases—the locals will appreciate your efforts.
6. Local Etiquette: People in Maués are very friendly and open. It is customary to greet strangers in lifts or small shops. Be prepared for a leisurely pace of life: rushing is not customary here, so service in cafes may take a little longer than you are used to.
7. What to Avoid: Do not venture into the jungle alone without the accompaniment of a certified guide—it is easy to get lost in the forest. Also, avoid swimming in the river in unequipped places due to possible strong currents and the presence of wildlife.
8. Additional Tip: Do not miss the chance to try natural guaraná right here. Maués is called the "Land of Guaraná," and the taste of freshly prepared drinks from this fruit is radically different from the sweet sodas sold in stores.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid practical difficulties and focus on the main thing—enjoying the magnificent nature and distinctive culture of this Brazilian region.