Many people wonder if it’s possible to have internet access during a trip through the Amazon. The answer is: yes, internet access in the Amazon works, but with significant variation depending on location.
In cities like Manaus, Belém, and Santarém, coverage is good with traditional mobile carriers and Wi-Fi. However, in more remote areas — such as riverside communities and forest trails — internet access in the Amazon can be weak or even nonexistent.
Some travelers opt for more modern and practical alternatives, like international eSIMs from Airalo and Holafly, which provide functional coverage in the main urban regions of the Amazon. These virtual chips are ideal for those looking for a simple, bureaucracy-free connection that works right away.
Brasil ATM has prepared this complete guide to help you understand how to ensure internet access in the Amazon efficiently and securely.
In this article you’ll read:
- How is internet access in the Amazon? Does it work?
- Where to buy internet to use in the Amazon
- Where internet access doesn’t work well in the Amazon
- Tips to save data in the Amazon
- Conclusion: it’s possible to have internet in the Amazon with planning
- Where to withdraw cash at ATM24h machines in Brazil
- Frequently asked questions
How is internet access in the Amazon? Does it work?
The short answer: it depends on where you are.
Internet access in the Amazon works well in major cities like Manaus, Belém, Santarém, and Rio Branco. However, as you move into riverside areas, indigenous communities, or nature reserves, the connection becomes limited or nonexistent.
| Location | Coverage Type | Cellular Signal | Mobile Internet |
| Manaus (AM) | 4G/5G | Excellent | Excellent |
| Belém (PA) | 4G/5G | Good | Good |
| Alter do Chão (PA) | 3G/4G | Moderate | Limited |
| Riverside communities | 2G or none | Weak | Rare or absent |
| Dense forest | None | Absent | Absent |
Where to buy internet to use in the Amazon
1. Hotel and guesthouse Wi-Fi
Many accommodations in Manaus, Belém, and other capitals offer free Wi-Fi. In tourist areas like Alter do Chão, the signal may be weak or unstable but usually works for messages and maps.
2. Brazilian carrier SIM card
Main carriers with coverage in the Amazon:
- Vivo (best coverage in remote areas)
- Claro (good speed in cities)
- TIM (works in capitals, weaker in interior regions)
Tip: Vivo offers the best cellular signal stability in the Amazon region, according to OpenSignal’s 2024 coverage report.
3. International eSIM (Airalo, Holafly)
If you’re coming from outside Brazil or want to avoid paperwork like CPF registration, virtual chips (eSIMs) are an excellent option.
Comparison: Airalo vs Holafly in the Amazon
| Feature | Airalo | Holafly |
| Compatibility in the Amazon | Yes – uses Airalo’s own network | Yes – uses TIM/Vivo network (good coverage) |
| Unlimited data | No | Yes |
| Price (7 days) | From US$ 5 | From US$ 32.90 |
| Usage control app | Yes | Yes |
| Instant activation | Yes | Yes |
| Works with WhatsApp | Yes | Yes |
| Portuguese support | No | Yes |
📡 Important: which carrier does the eSIM use in the Amazon?
Airalo and Holafly eSIMs operate through partnerships with local carriers. In Brazil, this means your virtual chip’s performance depends on the national network it connects to.
- Airalo generally uses its own network, known for having the best coverage in northern Brazil, including parts of the Amazon.
- Holafly typically uses TIM and Vivo networks, which perform well in urban areas but may be limited in more remote regions.
✅ Before purchasing your eSIM, confirm which local carrier it connects to — it makes all the difference in your experience.
Step by step: how to ensure internet in the Amazon using eSIM
- Check if your phone supports eSIM: Models from iPhone XS and top-tier Androids usually work.
- Choose a reliable virtual operator: Visit Airalo or Holafly‘s websites.
- Buy the Brazil (or Latin America) plan: Make sure it includes coverage via Vivo or TIM.
- Install the eSIM via QR Code: Just scan and activate it on your phone before or during the trip.
- Enable data roaming: It’s essential for the virtual chip to work.
Where internet access DOESN’T work well in the Amazon
Even with all the options, there are unavoidable blind spots:
- Inside the rainforest (such as indigenous reserves and deep forest areas)
- During boat rides on rivers like the Negro and Solimões
- Trails deep in the forest without nearby towers
In these cases, the only alternative would be a satellite phone — something expensive and not viable for most tourists.
Starlink for tourism in the Amazon: is it already a reality?
In recent years, Starlink satellite internet by SpaceX has begun transforming connectivity in remote areas of the Amazon. Designed to provide high-speed internet where traditional infrastructure is lacking, it has been adopted not only by isolated communities but also by eco-lodges and tourism operators.
Where Starlink is already in use
According to a 2023 BBC Brazil report, more than 700 remote points in the Amazon have received Starlink terminals, enabling connections in indigenous villages, riverside schools, and health centers.
In tourist destinations, some community-based lodges in Novo Airão (AM) and regions of the Tapajós River (PA) have installed the service to offer reliable Wi-Fi to visitors — a competitive advantage over accommodations with no signal.
How Starlink works for tourism
Starlink uses low-orbit satellites to provide internet with reduced latency and speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 200 Mbps, even in remote forest areas. Installation requires:
- Starlink antenna kit + Wi-Fi router (average cost: R$ 2,000 to R$ 3,000)
- Monthly subscription (~R$ 184/month – residential plan in Brazil)
Is it worth it for tourists?
For average travelers, Starlink is not yet individually accessible due to infrastructure and cost. However, it can be a great advantage when choosing lodging, especially if you:
- Work remotely and need reliable Wi-Fi
- Want to make video calls with family or social media
- Are on long expeditions or research trips
Disadvantages and limitations
- Requires stable electricity
- Fixed equipment – does not work as portable Wi-Fi
- Signals may be affected by dense vegetation
Brasil ATM tip:
When booking your stay in the Amazon, ask if the place offers Wi-Fi via Starlink. It can ensure a more connected experience, even deep in the forest.
Don’t forget to check out our selection of the best hotels in the Amazon Rainforest.
Tips to save data in the Amazon
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me)
- Use WhatsApp Web instead of video calls
- Disable automatic photo backups
- Use data-saving modes on your phone
- Avoid video streaming during the day
Conclusion – It’s possible to have internet in the Amazon, with planning
Ensuring reliable digital access in the Amazon is possible — with planning and the right tools. Cities like Manaus and Belém offer good coverage. To explore more remote areas, use tools like eSIMs from Airalo or Holafly, download offline maps, and reduce data use.
👉 Brasil ATM is here to help you with up-to-date tips to ensure your connection — even in the middle of the jungle.
Traveling to the Amazon? Leave your questions in the comments or check out our other connected travel guides!
Where to withdraw cash from ATM24h machines in Brazil
To make the most of your trip to the Amazon Rainforest, bring cash. It ensures a smoother experience. In some locations, it’s essential to pay for food, transportation, attraction fees, and more.
Check out the ATM24h machines available in the areas mentioned:
| Location | Description |
| Manaus Airport | See all points here |
| Tryp by Wyndham Manaus | See all points here |
| Da Vinci Hotel & Conventions | See all points here |
| Novotel Manaus | See all points here |
| Guarulhos Airport – São Paulo | See all points here |
Get to know Brasil ATM (A Todo Momento)
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a country full of unique beauty and a fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our love for Brazil. We aim to inspire travelers to explore its wonders safely and well-informed.
We provide precise, updated, and inspiring information in three languages, so you can confidently plan your trip. Also, we offer everything travelers need: travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.
We want to create lasting memories. Let us show you the natural and cultural beauty of Brazil. Explore famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, or hidden gems like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We’re here to help you make the most of your journey.
Enjoyed the article? Read more about the Amazon Rainforest:
- Public transportation in Manaus – Everything you need to know to get around the city in 2025
- How to get around Manaus – 7 best tips to explore the city easily and safely
- 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
Frequently asked questions – Internet access in the Amazon
Yes, cities like Manaus and Belém have stable signals for video calls. Outside these centers, the connection can be limited. Learn how to ensure internet in the Amazon with Brasil ATM.
Yes, hotels, cafes, and airports offer free Wi-Fi in major cities. In remote regions, it’s rare. See where to find a stable signal with Brasil ATM.
It works in urban areas, especially with carriers like Vivo and Claro. Check compatibility before your trip. Learn how to use eSIM in the Amazon with Brasil ATM.
Yes, there are booths from carriers like Claro and Vivo, but CPF may be required. See more practical alternatives in the Brasil ATM guide.
Vivo has the best coverage in the North region, especially outside major cities. Check out the full carrier comparison at Brasil ATM.
![Best places to visit in Brazil – 15 must-see destinations [2025]](https://brasilatm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/melhores-lugares-visitar-brasil.webp)
