Manicoré Biological Reserve is a vast protected area in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, renowned for preserving pristine tropical rainforest ecosystems and supporting unparalleled biodiversity.
Established in 2016, the Manicoré Biological Reserve spans over 359,063 hectares of remote Amazon rainforest in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. Its geography is characterized by dense, humid tropical forest interspersed with rivers, streams, and occasional terra firme plateaus. The reserve protects vital habitats for countless plant, mammal, bird, amphibian, and insect species, many of which are endemic or threatened. The area is part of the larger Madeira River basin, with a largely undisturbed ecology that plays a crucial role in regional climate regulation and carbon storage. Due to its strict protected status as a biological reserve, public access is highly restricted, with visitation primarily limited to scientific research and monitoring purposes. Outdoor recreation opportunities are minimal or non-existent compared to national parks; however, the reserve holds immense ecological and conservation value. There are no developed visitor facilities or official trails, and travel into the reserve typically requires special permits coordinated with Brazilian environmental agencies. While hiking, wildlife viewing, and river exploration are possible in adjacent areas, the reserve itself is preserved as a no-impact zone. The Manicoré Biological Reserve exemplifies Brazil’s commitment to protecting the Amazon’s most intact forest ecosystems in the face of increasing threats like deforestation, mining, and illegal logging. Its preservation ensures habitat connectivity in this critical region and supports ongoing research on Amazonian biodiversity and climate dynamics.
One of the largest intact tracts of Amazon rainforest in Amazonas
Critical habitat for jaguars, giant river otters, and numerous bird species
Part of the Madeira River basin, featuring diverse freshwater ecosystems
Strict biological reserve status ensuring minimal human impact and high conservation value
Elevated rainforest tracts that remain unflooded year-round, supporting diverse flora and fauna unique to this forest type.
An extensive river system providing critical aquatic habitats and influencing overall ecosystem health within the reserve.
Home to threatened species such as the jaguar (Panthera onca), harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja), and various endemic amphibians.