Depends on your goals. Dry season (July-October): less rain, more comfortable for city, beaches visible. Rainy season (December-May): high water levels, better for flooded forest cruises (igapó). August is the driest month with minimal rainfall.

It's the confluence of dark Rio Negro and sandy Amazon (Solimões). Waters flow side by side for 6 km without mixing due to temperature and density differences. Boat tours from R$80-150 for half-day, depart from Manaus port. You might see dolphins!

1-2 days is enough for the city: Teatro Amazonas, market, Meeting of Waters. For a jungle lodge add 3-5 days. Optimal is 5-7 days for full Amazon immersion with piranha fishing, night tours and visits to local tribes.

Yellow fever is recommended (get it 10 days before trip). Not officially required for entry but strongly advised when visiting jungle. Hepatitis A/B and typhoid vaccinations also useful. Bring mosquito repellent!

Lodges organize transfers from Manaus: usually 2-4 hours by boat upriver. Prices include everything: accommodation, meals, excursions. From $100-400/night depending on level. Popular: Anavilhanas Lodge, Juma Lodge, Amazon Ecopark.