Discover amazon jungle: Top Movies, TV Series and Books Set There

The Amazon Jungle, often referred to as the “Lungs of the Earth,” has long been a source of inspiration for countless filmmakers, authors, and television producers. Its dense rainforests, diverse wildlife, and indigenous cultures have created the perfect backdrop for some of the most iconic films, TV shows, and books in pop culture. This guide provides an in-depth look at the famous films shot in the Amazon Jungle, TV shows set in this natural wonder, and the books that transport readers to its heart. Moreover, it offers practical tips for exploring this cinematic paradise, including where to go, sleep, and eat, as well as what to pack and how to move around. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Amazon Jungle.

Movies Filmed in the Amazon Jungle

The Amazon Jungle, with its unique biodiversity and mysterious aura, has played a significant role in many renowned films that have captivated audiences worldwide. Here are ten iconic films where the Amazon Jungle took center stage:

1. “Fitzcarraldo” (1982): Directed by Werner Herzog, this film tells the story of an obsessed opera lover who dreams of building an opera house in the middle of the Amazon Jungle.
2. “The Emerald Forest” (1985): Directed by John Boorman, this film depicts the Amazon Jungle in all its glory, focusing on a young boy who gets kidnapped by an Amazonian tribe.
3. “The Mission” (1986): Set in the 18th century, this film directed by Roland Joffé showcases the Amazon Jungle as it tells the story of a Jesuit missionary in South America.
4. “Anaconda” (1997): Directed by Luis Llosa, this horror-adventure film set and shot in the Amazon Jungle follows a documentary film crew who have a horrifying encounter with a giant anaconda.
5. “Apocalypto” (2006): Although not set in the Amazon Jungle, Mel Gibson’s depiction of the Mayan civilization was filmed in the dense rainforests of Mexico, giving it a similar atmosphere.
6. “Avatar” (2009): While James Cameron’s blockbuster was not filmed in the Amazon Jungle, it took significant inspiration from it, with the film’s lush alien world resembling the rainforest.
7. “The Lost City of Z” (2016): Directed by James Gray, this film about the British explorer Percy Fawcett who disappeared while searching for a mysterious city in the Amazon in the 1920s, uses the Amazon Jungle as a thrilling backdrop.
8. “Jungle” (2017): Starring Daniel Radcliffe, this film tells the true story of a young adventurer who gets lost in the Bolivian Amazon.
9. “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” (2019): The live-action adaptation of the popular kids’ show sees Dora navigating high school and the Amazon Jungle in search of the Lost City of Gold.
10. “Jungle Cruise” (2021): Disney’s recent adventure film, starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, takes viewers on a thrilling journey through a fictional Amazon Jungle.

TV Shows Set in the Amazon Jungle

The Amazon Jungle has also been the setting for several popular TV shows, providing a captivating backdrop for various narratives:

1. “The River” (2012): This American found-footage supernatural adventure horror television series was set in the Amazon Jungle. Although it only lasted one season, it left a lasting impression on its viewers with its eerie depiction of the jungle.
2. “Narcos” (2015-2017): While this popular Netflix series primarily focuses on the drug trade in Colombia, some scenes are set in the Amazon Jungle, reflecting its role in the illegal activities.
3. “Mundo Salvaje con Bear Grylls” (2020): In this survival series, Bear Grylls ventures into the Amazon Jungle, showcasing its dangerous yet fascinating aspects.

Animated Films Set in the Amazon Jungle

The Amazon Jungle’s enchanting landscapes and biodiversity have also inspired numerous animated films. Here are some beloved examples:

1. “Rio 2” (2014): In this sequel to the popular animated film “Rio,” the main characters leave the city and venture into the Amazon Jungle, bringing to life the rainforest’s vibrant colors and sounds.
2. “The Jungle Book” (1967 & 2016): Both the original and the remake of this beloved Disney classic, although set in India, mirror the dense vegetation and the diverse wildlife of the Amazon Jungle.
3. “Tarzan” (1999): Disney’s animated adaptation of Tarzan, although set in Africa, offers a similar sense of adventure and exploration as a journey in the Amazon Jungle would.

Famous Books Set in the Amazon Jungle

The Amazon Jungle’s rich diversity and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. Here are six must-read books—three classics and three contemporaries—that transport readers to the heart of the Amazon:

Classic Books:

1. “The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon” by David Grann: This non-fiction book tells the real story of Percy Fawcett and his obsession with finding a lost city in the Amazon Jungle.
2. “Journey to the River Sea” by Eva Ibbotson: This children’s novel follows the story of an orphan girl who moves to the Amazon Jungle, offering readers a vivid and detailed description of the jungle.
3. “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver: Although set in Congo, the depiction of the dense rainforest and the cultural experiences mirror those of the Amazon.

Contemporary Books:

1. “State of Wonder” by Ann Patchett: This novel takes readers deep into the Amazon Jungle, where a pharmaceutical researcher must track down her former mentor who has disappeared while working on a valuable new drug.
2. “The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Darkest Journey” by Candice Millard: This is a non-fiction account of Theodore Roosevelt’s dangerous journey down one of the Amazon’s least explored tributaries.
3. “The Unconquered: In Search of the Amazon’s Last Uncontacted Tribes” by Scott Wallace: This non-fiction book provides an account of the author’s journey into the Amazon Jungle to find one of the last uncontacted tribes.

Exploring the Amazon Jungle’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

To fully immerse yourself in the cinematic history of the Amazon Jungle, there are several key locations you must visit:

1. Manaus: Known as the gateway to the Amazon Jungle, Manaus is a popular starting point for many film crews. It’s also where you’ll find the Amazon Theatre, an iconic location featured in “Fitzcarraldo.”
2. Iquitos: This Peruvian city, accessible only by river or air, has served as a filming location for several films, including “Fitzcarraldo” and “The Mission.”
3. Amazon River: The world’s largest river has served as a backdrop for countless films, including “Anaconda” and “The Lost City of Z.”
4. Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: Located in the Peruvian Amazon, this nature reserve has been a filming location for various nature documentaries due to its rich biodiversity.
5. Jau National Park: This is the largest national park in South America, and its dense forest and diverse wildlife have made it a popular choice for filming.
6. Madidi National Park: Located in Bolivia, this national park is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth, making it a perfect filming location for films and documentaries.

Where to Sleep in the Amazon Jungle

When it comes to accommodation, the Amazon Jungle offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference:

Budget:

1. Hostel Manaus: This budget-friendly hostel located in Manaus offers private and shared rooms, making it a good starting point for your Amazon adventure.
2. Juma Amazon Lodge: While this lodge offers a more rustic experience, it also provides guided tours and activities, allowing you to explore the jungle up close.
3. Amazon Tupana Jungle Lodge: Located on the Tupana River, this lodge offers basic but comfortable accommodations and jungle excursions.

Luxury:

1. Ariaíº Amazon Towers Hotel: This luxury hotel, located near Manaus, offers comfortable suites, panoramic views of the jungle, and guided tours.
2. Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica: Located in Peru, this eco-luxury lodge offers private cabanas, a wellness spa, and guided nature excursions.
3. Cristalino Lodge: This luxury hotel in Brazil’s southern Amazon offers comfortable accommodations, a floating deck, and various guided tours.

Where to Eat in the Amazon Jungle

When it comes to food, the Amazon Jungle offers a variety of unique dining experiences. Here are some places where you can enjoy local flavors:

Budget:

1. Banzeiro: Located in Manaus, this restaurant offers a variety of local dishes, including fish and fruits native to the Amazon region.
2. Tambaqui de Banda: This popular eatery in Manaus is known for its Tambaqui ribs, a must-try dish when visiting the Amazon.
3. Tacacá da Gisela: This street food stall in Manaus serves Tacacá, a popular local soup with jambu (a mouth-numbing Amazonian herb) and dried shrimps.

Luxury:

1. Caxiri Manaus: This upscale restaurant in Manaus offers a modern take on Amazonian cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients.
2. Kiote Restaurante: Located in the Cristalino Lodge, this restaurant serves a variety of dishes made with local ingredients, providing a unique dining experience in the heart of the jungle.
3. Fitz Carraldo Bistro: This bistro in Iquitos offers a variety of international and Peruvian dishes, served in a charming colonial house.

Detailed Itinerary: Exploring the Amazon Jungle Day by Day

Here is a suggested itinerary to explore the Amazon Jungle’s filming locations and experience its cinematic magic first-hand:

Day 1: Arrival in Manaus

• Start your day at the  Manaus Opera House, an iconic location featured in “Fitzcarraldo”.
• Explore the  Manaus city market  and try some local Amazonian fruits and dishes.
• Visit the  Rio Negro Palace, a beautiful historic building.
• Enjoy dinner at  Banzeiro, known for its local Amazonian dishes.

Day 2: Exploring the Jungle

• Depart for a guided tour into the heart of the Amazon Jungle.
• Visit the  Meeting of the Waters, where the Rio Negro and the Amazon River meet, a popular filming location.
• Spend the night at the  Juma Amazon Lodge, and enjoy the unique experience of sleeping in the jungle.

Day 3: Journey Down the Amazon River

• Depart from the lodge and set off on a guided boat trip down the Amazon River.
• Experience the wildlife of the Amazon up close, including the pink river dolphins.
• Visit an indigenous tribe and learn about their way of life.
• Return to Manaus in the evening.

Day 4: Departure

• Spend your final day exploring Manaus or shopping for souvenirs.
• Depart for the airport.

Local Legends and Curiosities about the Amazon Jungle

The Amazon Jungle is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. For instance, it’s said that the Amazon River was named after the Amazons, a tribe of female warriors mentioned in Greek mythology. According to legend, Spanish explorer Francisco de Orellana fought a tribe of fierce female warriors while venturing into the jungle, reminding him of the mythical Amazons.

Another intriguing tale is the legend of El Dorado, a city of gold believed to be hidden somewhere in the Amazon Jungle. The quest for this mythical city has been the focus of numerous films and books.

The Amazon Jungle is also home to countless uncontacted tribes. These tribes have chosen to remain isolated from the rest of the world, and their existence often forms the basis for various film plots and documentaries.

Perhaps the most famous legend of the Amazon is that of the pink river dolphin, also known as boto. Local folklore tells that these creatures can transform into handsome men to seduce women on the riverbanks.

Hidden Gems in the Amazon Jungle

Beyond the well-known landmarks, the Amazon Jungle is also home to several hidden gems:

1. Amazon Rainforest Canopy Walkway: Located near Iquitos, this suspended bridge system offers a unique perspective of the jungle from above.
2. Sandoval Lake: Located in Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve, this lake is home to a variety of wildlife and offers stunning views.
3. Madidi National Park: Less known but equally fascinating, this Bolivian park offers a unique biodiversity and is a fantastic place to observe wildlife.
4. The Boiling River: Located in Peru, this geothermal river is one of the Amazon’s lesser-known wonders. Its waters reach temperatures high enough to boil small animals alive, yet it remains a mystery to scientists.
5. Marajó Island: Located at the mouth of the Amazon, this island is home to unique fauna, flora, and indigenous cultures, making it a must-visit off-the-beaten-path destination.

What to Pack for a Trip to the Amazon Jungle

When packing for your Amazon adventure, it’s essential to consider the jungle’s tropical climate and the activities you plan to participate in. Here’s a suggested packing list:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for the humid conditions.
• Waterproof clothing and footwear for the rainy season or river activities.
• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against mosquito bites.
• A good-quality insect repellent.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• A camera with a good zoom to capture the diverse wildlife.
• A first-aid kit, including any necessary medication.
• A waterproof bag to protect your belongings during boat trips.
• A good pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around the Amazon Jungle

Navigating the Amazon Jungle can be a unique experience. Here are some tips to help you get around:

• Boat: Traveling by boat is the most common way to explore the Amazon, with many towns and attractions only accessible by river.
• Foot: Guided jungle hikes are a popular way to explore the rainforest and observe wildlife up close.
• Small Plane: For longer distances, small planes can be used to travel between cities like Iquitos and Manaus.
• Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour can be a convenient way to navigate the jungle. These tours typically include transportation, accommodation, and meals.

Remember, the Amazon Jungle is a vast and complex ecosystem, so always travel with respect for the environment and local communities.

Conclusion

The Amazon Jungle, with its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, has served as an inspiring backdrop for countless films, TV shows, and books. By visiting its famous filming locations, exploring its hidden gems, and immersing yourself in its unique culture and biodiversity, you can embark on your own cinematic adventure. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the “Lungs of the Earth” through the lens of cinema.