The Experience

São Gabriel da Cachoeira is a municipality located in the state of Amazonas in Brazil. The region has a rich cultural and natural heritage, making it a potential ecotourism destination. The municipality is home to several indigenous communities, which have unique cultures and traditions.

In terms of natural attractions, São Gabriel da Cachoeira has a diverse range of ecosystems, including forests, rivers, and waterfalls. The region is also home to several species of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the area.

However, it is worth noting that ecotourism can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment and local communities. For Amazon Emotions it is important to ensure that any ecotourism activities in São Gabriel da Cachoeira are sustainable and respectful of the local culture and environment. For this reason we work closely with communities and local authorities to develop a sustainable ecotourism strategy that benefits all parties involved.

Pico da Neblina is a mountain peak located in the Serra do Imeri, in the northernmost part of Brazil, near the border with Venezuela. It is the highest point in Brazil, with an altitude of 2,995 meters.The Pico da Neblina region is known for its unique biodiversity, with numerous species of flora and fauna that are found nowhere else on Earth. The area is part of the Amazon rainforest, which is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and is home to more than half of the world’s species.The indigenous peoples of the region have lived in harmony with the forest for centuries and have developed a deep understanding of its ecosystem. The Yanomami tribe is one of the most well-known indigenous groups in the region and has a population of around 35,000 people. They rely on hunting, fishing, and agriculture for their livelihoods and have a strong cultural identity.

The Pico da Neblina National Park was established in 1979 to protect the region’s biodiversity and indigenous communities. It covers an area of more than 2 million hectares and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and giant otters.

The region faces several threats, including deforestation, illegal mining, and land grabbing. These activities can cause irreparable damage to the environment and can harm the indigenous communities that depend on the forest for their survival.

Efforts are underway to protect the Pico da Neblina region, including the implementation of sustainable development projects as ecotourism to prevent illegal activities. It is important to preserve this unique and valuable ecosystem for future generations to enjoy.

Camping is the primary accommodation option during the trek, with campsites located at various points along the trail. The campsites are basic, with facilities for cooking and washing.

Highlights

• We keep our schedule flexible to take advantage of the unexpected.
• This expedition has a strenuous physical activity level and has been designed to have daily early mornings, hiking 6 to 10 hours per day on uneven terrain in hot and humid conditions.
• Yanomami porters will transport our gear during the trek.
• A top leader english-speaking Amazon Emotions and a Yanomami guide will accompany you throughout the trip.
• We will set up camp every night in the middle of the forest, often by the banks of the river, where we will set up our hammocks according to the Amazon tradition. As we move deeper into the forest, with our guides, we will select a new spot to set up camp each day. Our camps will be built when we arrive at each spot, with our local guide. Our camping sites are selected for their beauty, their location, or sometimes because they are the only possible place. Comfort is simple and rudimentary but it always makes for an exceptional experience and atmosphere.
• We will eat the provisions that we have brought along with us. Fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, meat and fish will provide our basic diet, which will be complemented by Yanomami culinary.

Physical Requirements – Moderate

The Pico da Neblina Trekking Expedition has a strenuous physical activity level and has been designed for hikers who have experience in mountain hiking or trekking. This active trip is designed to have daily early mornings, hiking 6 to 10 hours per day during the 10-day trek, on moderate to very steep grades. General physical fitness and mobility are required, also feeling comfortable swimming in moderate currents. Yanomami porters will transport part of our gear during the trek. Before you leave for Brazil, ensure that you have confirmed with a medical professional that you are medically fit to embark on the expedition.

Itinerary at a Glance