Lets see...two days in Manaus. They'll probably want you to take the opera house tour and to tour Manaus itself, including the "leggo" model of the opera house. Manaus was once among the richest cities in the world when it had a total monopoly on latex used to make rubber. The British ended that by stealing some trees and planting in Malaysia. Interesting story. In reality, the city is only mildly interesting and not much worth touring IMHO. Much better, go down to the port, take a small, usually <20 person, guided boat that will both go up the Negra a bit (pink dolphin stop), down the Negra to the "meeting of the waters", and then cross over into the Solimões for contrast. Dress with a bathing suit as your first layer as you will both want to "swim with the dolphins" and be towed back and forth across the "meeting". Take a towel, binoculars and a camera. Try the "Guarana", which is a soda made from a plant seed extract, some types only available in Manaus. Eat some "cupuacu", or drink a "vitimana" made from it. Cupuacu is a fruit only available in the region. I don't know about the water level right now, usually earlier is higher and the "terra firme" flooded. This allows small boats to penetrate the forest, where you can see all kinds of wildlife stranded in the trees. Your tour will usually include a very nice lunch, and your guide will likely speak English. You'll see "Victoria Amazonica" the largest water lily in the world. You can hire a guide to give you a tour of Manaus or arrange at the port. An interesting place is INPA, literally "Institute Nacional Pesquisa Amazonas", where "pesquisa" is research. INPA is the primary research center for the Amazon. The campus is incredible, there are several museums, including one that includes what is called the "largest noncomosite leaf in the world", Coccaloba, up to 8 ft long. You will need a guide to appreciate Manaus and INPA, though. Prices should be modest, as the Brazilian currency is highly devalued currently. Tips are not expected but are appreciated. However, taxis will ALWAYS try to overcharge you so make sure and agree on a price ahead of time. The Brazilian currency is now >4 reis per dollar vs about 1 per dollar my first visit there. Say "obrigado" (males) or "obrigada" (females) a lot. Do haggle a bit but don't complain or compare how much better things are in the US. Brazilians are educated, wonderful people, and they are proud of their country and well aware of its problems.
