How to get around Manaus – 7 best tips to explore the city easily and safely

When visiting Manaus, beyond the excitement of the Amazon’s beauty, a practical concern lingers minds: “How to get around Manaus?”

After all, it’s not just any city. Manaus is nestled in the heart of the world’s largest tropical rainforest, along the banks of the Rio Negro, with a challenging and unique urban layout.

Therefore, we at Brasil ATM decided to create this comprehensive guide, sharing everything we learned firsthand—from crowded bus rides in the heat to navigating rivers, trying out apps, and even negotiating with taxis.

If you’re planning your trip and wondering about the best way for tourists to get around Manaus, this guide has all the answers.

In this article, you’ll find:

• How to get around Manaus
• Comparison of transportation modes in Manaus
• What’s the best way to get around Manaus?
• Where to withdraw cash from ATM24h machines in Brazil
• Frequently asked questions

How to get around Manaus – The 7 best tips for 2025

💡 Quick summary: How to get around Manaus? Use ride-hailing apps for convenience, river transport for river tours, buses for savings, and rent a car if you want to explore waterfalls and river beaches in the surroundings.

These are the main ways to get around Manaus. Understanding how each works helps you choose the ideal transport for your itinerary, with safety and peace of mind.

1. Public transport in Manaus — Is it tourist-friendly?

Public transport in Manaus mainly consists of urban buses and alternative (micro) buses. Although it covers almost the entire city, both residents and tourists agree: the system isn’t the most efficient.

Main features:

• Fixed fare: R$ 6.00, but with the PassaFácil card, it’s R$ 5.00 (as of May 2025).
• Integration: Allows transfers without additional cost at some terminals.
• Operating hours: From 5 AM to 11 PM, depending on the line.

Advantages:

• Very affordable.
• Easy access to main neighborhoods.
• Available even in distant regions.

Disadvantages:

• Inconsistent punctuality.
• Crowded buses, especially during peak hours.
• Air conditioning doesn’t always work, which is challenging in the hot and humid Amazon climate.

Practical Tips:

• Use the Google Maps app to check real-time schedules and routes.
• If staying in Ponta Negra, bus 120 takes you to downtown at a very low cost, but prepare for a 40 to 60-minute journey depending on traffic.

2. Ride-hailing apps in Manaus

Apps like Uber and 99 are fully integrated into the city’s daily life and, honestly, are my top recommendation for tourists.

Do they work well?

• Yes, both work well in the city center and neighborhoods. However, in forested areas, riverside communities, and very remote zones, coverage is nonexistent.

Average prices:

Route	Average Price
Airport → Downtown	R$ 35 to R$ 60
Downtown → Ponta Negra	R$ 28 to R$ 45
Ponta Negra → Industrial District	R$ 45 to R$ 65

Attention:

• Airport: There’s often a surcharge due to high demand. A valuable tip is to walk to Avenida Torquato Tapajós (about 5 to 7 minutes) and request your ride from there—you could save up to 40%.

3. Taxis in Manaus – When are they worth it?

Taxis are still widely used in Manaus, especially at the airport, high-end hotels, and shopping centers.

When to use:

• If you’re without internet.
• During high-demand times on apps.
• In areas with limited digital access.

Fares:

• Flag 1: R$ 6.50 + R$ 3.50/km (average values).
• Airport → Downtown Route: Around R$ 70.

Note:

• They don’t always use the meter. It’s advisable to agree on the fare beforehand, especially in tourist areas.
• There are reliable cooperatives, like Coopertaxi Manaus, which can be contacted by phone or WhatsApp.

4. Car rental in Manaus

If your itinerary includes visits to Presidente Figueiredo (the waterfall capital), river beaches like Praia do Tupé, or areas outside the urban perimeter, renting a car is highly worthwhile.

Available companies:

• Localiza, Movida, Unidas, and Foco.

Average costs:

Item	Value
Daily Rate	From R$ 120
Fuel	Average R$ 6.39/liter (ANP data, 2025)
Tolls	None

Points to consider:

• Traffic: Quite heavy in downtown and access roads to Ponta Negra and the Industrial District.
• Parking: Hard to find and expensive in the Historic Center. In Ponta Negra, there are both paid and public options.

Best choice:

• If your itinerary includes leaving the city to explore nature, waterfalls, or indigenous communities.

5. River transport – A part of daily life in Manaus

Unlike other Brazilian capitals, in Manaus, river transport isn’t just for tourists—it’s part of many people’s daily lives.

Main routes:

Origin	Destination	Time	Average Price
Manaus Port	Praia do Tupé	30-40 min	R$ 25 (speedboat)
Ceasa Port	Meeting of the Waters	1h30	Tours from R$ 80
Manaus Port	Presidente Figueiredo	3h (slow boat)	R$ 50

Ideal for:

• Visiting indigenous communities.
• Taking ecological tours.
• Experiencing the Meeting of the Waters, floating houses, riverfront restaurants, and river beaches.

Note:

• Always check the safety and origin of the boat. Prefer registered agencies or hotel recommendations.

If you want to explore riverside communities, check how river transport works in Manaus in our complete guide.

6. Bicycle and scooter rentals

Currently, there’s no public bike-sharing or electric scooter system in Manaus, like those in São Paulo or Rio.

Alternatives:

• Some hotels in the Ponta Negra area offer bikes for guests.
• Ideal only for cycling along the Ponta Negra beach promenade, which is flat, safe, and offers a wonderful view of the Rio Negro.

7. Walking – When is it safe and possible?

Manaus is a hot, humid city with long distances. Walking is possible, especially in the central region.

On foot in downtown:

• Teatro Amazonas
• Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market
• Rio Negro Palace
• São Sebastião Church

Precautions:

• The heat can be extreme, with possibilities of reaching 40°C.
• Avoid walking at night on less busy streets.
• Constant hydration is essential.

How to get around Manaus at night safely?

💡 Quick answer: The best way to get around Manaus at night is by using ride-hailing apps like Uber and 99, which offer safety, convenience, and good coverage in the city’s tourist areas.

Areas Safe to Move Around at Night:

• Historic Center (near Teatro Amazonas)
• Ponta Negra (waterfront, restaurants, and hotels)
• Hotel and shopping center areas

Avoid:

• Public transport after 9 PM (less safe and reduced fleet).
• Walking through deserted streets or peripheral neighborhoods.

Best night transport options:

• Apps (Uber, 99): Safe, practical, and work very well late into the night.
• Taxi Cooperatives: Especially recommended if you’re without internet or prefer to schedule your ride.
• Rental Car: Ideal if you’re already using a vehicle during your trip.

Safety tips:

• Share your route in the app with someone you trust.
• Always check the route on Google Maps before leaving.
• Prefer well-lit and busy locations for pick-up and drop-off.

📌 Important: Nights in Manaus are safe in tourist areas, but, like any big city, require attention during movements.

Complete comparison of transportation modes in Manaus

Transport	Cost	Comfort	Speed	Ideal For
Bus	⭐	⭐⭐	⭐	Total savings
Uber/99	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Convenience and safety
Taxi	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	Lack of internet or emergencies
Car Rental	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	Exploring waterfalls and river beaches
Boats/Speedboats	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	Amazon experience and ecological tourism

Conclusion – What’s the best way to get around Manaus?

If you’re looking for convenience, comfort, and safety, ride-hailing apps are unbeatable in Manaus. Those seeking savings can use buses, but patience is required. To explore beyond the city’s limits—like the beautiful waterfalls of Presidente Figueiredo or the Rio Negro beaches—car rentals and river transport become essential.

Final tip: Combine land transport with river experiences. This way, you’ll truly experience Manaus—both the city and the surrounding Amazon.

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Where to withdraw cash from ATM24h machines in Brazil

To make the most of your trip to Manaus, bring cash. It ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. In some places, it’s essential for buying food, getting around, paying entrance fees for attractions, and more.

Check the table below for some ATM24h machines in the regions mentioned in this article:

Where	Location
Manaus Airport	See all locations here
Tryp by Wyndham Manaus	See all locations here
Da Vinci Hotel & Conventions	See all locations here
Novotel Manaus	See all locations here
Guarulhos Airport – São Paulo	See all locations here

About Brasil ATM

At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a place full of unique beauty and fascinating culture. Our platform, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our love for Brazil. We want to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and well-informed.

We provide accurate, updated, and inspiring information in three languages. That way, travelers can plan their trip with confidence. We offer everything travelers need: travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.

Our goal is to create lasting memories. We want to showcase Brazil’s natural and cultural treasures. Discover iconic destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Explore hidden gems like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We’re here to help travelers get the best out of their trip.

Liked this article? Read more about Manaus:

• How much does it cost to visit Manaus in 2025? Complete guide with prices, itineraries, and money-saving tips
• Currency exchange in Manaus – Where to exchange, how much It costs & how to save
• Best hotels in Manaus
• Best jungle hotels in the Amazon Rainforest

Frequently asked questions