Hi, Luciana
Overall we had a great time at Juma Lodge– not there long enough, of course, but we did enjoy the time we had.
On the plus side: well…first of all, your help and organization has been great…the whole booking process was very smooth…thanks for that!
Elsewhere: we thought the transport was excellent – well organized and efficient with helpful and friendly drivers and good quality vehicles. It was also nice that the journey broke down into distinct phases (Manaus across the river; an hour by car; another hour on the river) as this gave us a chance to stretch our legs. The journey is also very interesting by itself – especially, we thought, seeing the fish market at the port in Manaus! Some amazing creatures there!
We stayed at the Millenium Hotel– in Manaus and that was very comfortable and not too far from the centre of town. We – like most visitors, I imagine – wanted to get in to see the theatre as soon as we arrived so it helps if this is close by.
The food at Juma was excellent. It always amazes us how kitchens and cooks in the middle of the jungle can make so much of their limited supplies but we found it all well prepared, presented and tasty….as well as plentiful.
The lodge itself and the rooms were delightful – nicely designed with great views and plenty of shade…all very comfortable.
On the slight down side: some of the walkways and stairs at Juma were a little bit wobbly which my (elderly) parents found a little bit difficult to handle…especially the stairway from the dock up to the lodge. I know that this is a result of the stilt-based design but, even so, it was a little bit unnerving at times!
The guiding wasn’t as good as we would have hoped. Of course, we weren’t there long enough to do a huge amount of trips but we felt the knowledge about the flora and fauna wasn’t great on the part of our guide (although the boat driver, Paulo, had great eyes and seemed to know a lot more without being able to translate it to English).
I should add that all the staff were very friendly and helpful – and I would like to make a special mention of the gentleman who managed the restaurant who was always helpful while keeping things running efficiently.
I hope that helps.
We have a question for you, in the meantime: we have a guest visiting round about Carnaval time – is that a good time to visit the Amazon, in your opinion, or are there better places to visit at that time of year? Do Viverde run tours to other parts of the country?
Many thanks
Nick and Paula