Even if you have worked with Acute Angling before, please read this guide carefully!
Xingu River Multi-Species Trip Preparation Guide
Everything You Need to Know for Your Xingu River Amazon Expedition
Whether this is your first Amazon fishing trip or you’re returning for another thrilling journey with Acute Angling, this guide will help ensure you’re ready for every step of your adventure. From flight planning and packing tips to visa requirements and health information, here’s everything you need to know before joining us on the Xingu River.
Experience immersive Amazon fishing deep within the protected 22-million-acre territories of the Kayapo people—one of the most pristine, culturally rich regions left on the planet. The Xingu River trip blends high-action multi-species fishing with cultural connection, set far off the beaten path in the Southeast Amazon.
Travel Insurance
Acute Angling does not include travel insurance in trip pricing, and many insurers require policies to be purchased soon after making your deposit. We strongly recommend purchasing insurance that covers:
Trip cancellation
Medical evacuation
Emergency rebooking
Lost baggage
We have worked closely with Global Rescue for many years. They understand the needs of our anglers and are highly recommended.
For more details, see our full article: Travel, Trip, and Evacuation Insurance.
Travel Dates & Flights
Your trip start date corresponds to the day you board the charter flight from Manaus to the Rio Xingu. You must arrive in Manaus the day before this date and plan your international departure for the day after the trip ends. Weather delays are possible in the rainforest, so this buffer is essential.
Example: If your trip runs November 11–18:
Arrive in Manaus by November 10
Flight to the Xingu: November 11
Return to Manaus: November 18
International flight home: November 19 or later
Your Acute Angling trip package includes one night in the hotel before your fishing trip and one night in the hotel after your fishing trip (in this example case, November 10 and 18).
Additional nights outside of these dates are your responsibility unless noted (e.g., for an Arapaima Day Trip which includes an additional hotel night).
Need Help Booking Flights?
We recommend working with Alexy Mesa, a licensed travel agent who has helped our anglers for years. His services are completely free to you — he is paid by the airline — and he can:
Find the best flight options for your trip dates
Rebook quickly in case of delays or cancellations
Communicate with airlines in Spanish or Portuguese on your behalf
Contact Alexy:
Email: [email protected]
Office Phone: 786-299-5505
Cell Phone: 786-352-1256
Website: www.traveldm.com
Once your flights are confirmed, enter your complete itinerary into the Acute Angling WeTravel portal. This ensures our Manaus team can coordinate your airport pickup, hotel reservation, and charter flight.
Travel Visa (Important!)
As of April 10th, 2025, U.S., Canadian, and Australian citizens must obtain a visa to enter Brazil. The process is entirely online, and you’ll receive your visa via email. Print a hard copy and keep it with your travel documents — you may be asked to show it before boarding your flight.
What You’ll Need:
Valid passport (with at least 6 months until expiration from the date you enter Brazil)
Copy of your passport bio page (a photo on your phone works)
Completed online visa application
Digital 2x2 passport-style photo (can be taken on your phone)
Credit/debit card for the $80.90 visa fee
WeTravel Client Portal
Acute Angling utilizes the WeTravel portal to securely collect trip information and payments from all of our clients. This system ensures that we have everything we need to provide a seamless experience, from airport pickups to charter flights.
How It Works:
Once you reserve your trip and pay your deposit, Acute Angling will create your registration in WeTravel.
You will then receive an email from WeTravel with a secure registration link.
Use this link to log in, review your trip details, and enter all required personal and travel information.
The portal also serves as the platform for submitting your remaining balance payments when due.
Important:
All required information should be completed as soon as possible and must be completed in the WeTravel portal at least 120 days before your trip start date.
Note that if you book a trip less than 120 days before the trip please provide the required information as soon as possible.
Failure to complete your registration may result in logistical complications, such as flight scheduling, hotel reservations, or transfer arrangements.
The WeTravel portal is the only official system we use for gathering your information. Please make sure you keep your login details and complete the process as soon as you receive your registration email.
You can access the portal directly here: Acute Angling WeTravel Portal. If you need assistance with your portal, please contact us at 866-832-2987.
Transfers in Manaus
When you arrive in Manaus, our local host Eddy Wala (or his assistant) will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. At the end of your trip, he’ll assist with your return to the airport and check-in for your flight home. Eddy also coordinates your transfers between the hotel and the charter terminal.
Should anything unexpected come up, you’ll have direct contact information for key staff in both Brazil and the U.S.
Hotel Accommodations
Two nights in Manaus are included with your trip:
One night before your fishing adventure begins
One night after you return from the Xingu
Each morning includes complimentary breakfast. Additional meals and drinks are not included.
The hotel features:
Rooftop pool
Small gym
Air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities
Important: Acute Angling will handle the hotel booking. Please do not contact the hotel directly. If you need additional days in Manaus outside of your two included nights please note it in your portal so we are aware and can handle the reservation for you.
The Xingu River Experience
The lodge is perched riverside within the jungle, offering peaceful immersion and immediate access to world-class fishing. The Xingu is known for species variety, from explosive Payara to giant Amazon catfish and Peacock Bass.
Key Features:
Exclusive access for just eight anglers per week
Operating deep within the Kayapo reserve — pristine, culturally immersive, and stunning
Comfortable eco-lodge with en-suite bathrooms
Meals by skilled chefs
Daily laundry service included
Satellite internet (Starlink) for messaging and updates
This is definitely not roughing it! You’ll enjoy excellent meals, plenty of space to unwind, and a helpful crew ready to make your stay relaxing and smooth. This unique combination of comfort and mobility ensures you’ll experience the Amazon at its best.
Itinerary Overview
Your week on the Xingu River is carefully structured to maximize fishing time while ensuring you have a comfortable and seamless Amazon adventure.
Day 1 – Arrival in Manaus
Arrive in Manaus at Eduardo Gomes International Airport (MAO).
Our host, Eddy Wala, will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.
Check into your air-conditioned room and relax. Dinner is on your own this evening. The hotel does have a restaurant.
Day 2 – Charter to Xingu River lodge
Breakfast at the hotel (included).
Transfer to the charter terminal with Eddy.
Flight to the Kayapo Reserve on the Xingu River.
20 minute boat ride from the landing strip to the lodge.
Lunch and orientation.
Meet the fishing guides and fishing gear preparation (guides will prepare gear).
Appetizers and Dinner
Days 3–8 – Multi-Species Fishing Adventure
Each day begins with a hearty breakfast.
Depart in pairs with your expert indigenous and English-speaking guides.
Explore tributaries and main river stretches targeting Payara, catfish, Peacock Bass, and more.
Return to the lodge for lunch and a short siesta
Fish the afternoon session until late in the day.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 9 – Return to Manaus
Breakfast at the lodge, then charter back to Manaus.
Overnight in the hotel; dinner on your own.
Day 10 – International Departure
Eddy will transfer you to the airport for your flight home.
Baggage Requirements
Brazilian aviation law strictly regulates baggage on charter flights. Please comply with the following:
Maximum bag length: 30 inches
Maximum bag weight: 33 lbs
Bag type: Soft-sided only — no hard-shell suitcases or trunks
Carry-on: Small handbag or daypack only — must fit on your lap
Bags that exceed these limits may be denied or delayed. These rules are enforced by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC). Check out our helpful video for what bag and day pack to bring on your Amazon fishing trip!
If you weigh more than 275 lbs, please notify us in advance.
Remember, all arriving guests must collect their luggage at their first point of entry into Brazil for immigration, customs clearance, and re-check to their final destination.
Your bags will not be checked directly to Manaus if it is not your first landing point in Brazilian territory.
What to Pack
We provide all conventional tackle (rods, reels, and lures). You only need to bring fly gear if you plan to fly fish.
We also provide daily laundry service, so there’s no need to overpack. Just bring personal essentials, appropriate clothing, and any medications or health items you may need. Watch our video, Clothing for Your Amazon Fishing Adventure, for more helpful information!
We included links to some of our favorite products that we’ve tested out ourselves. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some of our favorite recommended products are linked below for your convenience.
Clothing (light colors recommended):
1 rain jacket and pants
1 lightweight jacket (occasionally it is cool in the evening)
3–4 long-sleeve fishing shirts or hoodies
3 pairs of fast-drying pants
3 pairs of white cotton socks (the boat deck can get hot - these will keep your feet from burning)
4 pairs of underwear
2 Buff-style face masks
Fishing hat(s)
2 pairs of fishing gloves
1 swimsuit
1 pair sandals
We recommend something you can wear with socks
Sturdy water shoes
Some companies that sell fishing-specific clothing:
Columbia Sportswear - Performance Fishing Gear
Pelagic
Simms
Huk
Bass Pro Shop/Cabelas
Orvis
Medical & Personal Items:
2 pairs polarized sunglasses
Please bring two pairs in case you break or lose a pair! You must have eye protection when fishing.
You might consider clear safety glasses for early morning or evening fishing, especially if your eyesight is weak.
Lens wipes (good for glasses, smart phones, and cameras)
Insect repellent with DEET
We have also had success treating clothing with products designed to repel bugs: Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing
Anti-itch cream
Medications (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, allergy meds, etc.)
Prescription meds (keep in carry-on)
Electrolyte mix
Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
Basic toiletries
Dude Wipes are great to keep in your day pack
Waterproof day pack or dry bag
Flashlight/headlamp
Zip-loc bags or trash bags (for wet items or gear)
Passport and visa and two photocopies of each
Travel documents, cash (for tips), and credit card
Smartphone/tablet with charger
Apps for smartphone:
Google Translate (download Brazilian Portuguese language before arriving)
WhatsApp (remember to have loved ones back home download as well. We recommend sending a few initial messages at home to ensure your numbers are connected.
Universal power adapter
Optional:
Waterproof camera and charger
Books or Notebook
Binoculars
Goggles (check with guide before swimming)
Hook sharpener
Fishing knot app (e.g., Grog Knots)
Health & Safety
Vaccines
No vaccinations are required for travelers from the U.S. or Canada. If you're arriving from or have recently visited a country with a Yellow Fever risk, carry your Yellow Fever vaccination card.
Medical Needs
If you have serious health conditions, please let us know in advance via your trip portal. Though remote, our operations have internet access for emergency communication. In a medical emergency, evacuation flights are possible but may take several hours or more. Bring any allergy medications or EpiPens, and share your emergency contact info with the host upon arrival.
If you can’t swim, notify your guide and host at the beginning of the trip.
Drinking Water
Do not drink tap water in Brazil — use only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Avoid ice and juices unless provided by our operations. This helps prevent serious digestive upset that could sideline your fishing.
Dietary Needs
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please notify us via your WeTravel portal in advance. We’ll coordinate with the operation to ensure suitable meal options are available.
Insects & Biting Pests
Mosquitoes
Our primary fisheries — especially blackwater systems like the Rio Negro — are naturally mosquito-free due to their acidic water chemistry. However, clearwater systems like the Xingu River and the city of Manaus have a mosquito and no-see-um presence.
Bring strong repellent with high DEET for use throughout the day. Be sure to put it on as soon as you land at the lodge and continue to apply throughout your trip. Bring long sleeves, long pants, and socks rather than short sleeves and swimming suits. We recommend anti-itch cream and have also had success with treating clothing with permethrin to repel insects.
We have never had a case of mosquito-transmitted disease, but if you're concerned, consult your physician. If using anti-malaria meds, avoid doxycycline (it causes sun sensitivity); malarone or lariam may be better options.
Allergies to stings?
If you are allergic to bees, wasps, or horseflies, bring an EpiPen and notify your guide and host as soon as you arrive.
Tipping Guidelines
Our staff and guides work hard to make your fishing trip in Brazil a memorable one. Tipping is a meaningful way to show your appreciation. These are suggested minimums per angler per week:
Total for all the Guides and Staff at the Xingu Lodge: 10% of trip price
Manaus Host: $25
Tips for the Staff and Guides are paid after the final day of fishing. Please pay the Manaus host tip before you leave on your returning international flight. Tips can be paid in U.S. dollars.
Traveling with Minors?
If you're traveling with children without both legal parents, you must bring a notarized parental consent form, the child’s birth certificate, and a copy of both. Review the “Minors” section on the visa site for full compliance.
Fly Fishing Gear
All spinning and baitcasting tackle is provided. If you plan to fly fish, please bring your own gear. Airlines do not allow rods or lures with hooks in carry-on luggage, so pack accordingly.
Contact Information
📱 (866) 832-2987
We look forward to welcoming you to the Kayapo Reserve in the Amazon jungle at the Xingu River multi-species lodge for the Amazon fishing adventure of a lifetime!
