Cristalino Lodge

This family-owned jungle retreat is a shining example of hospitality and conservation working together for the greater good. Sitting lightly in a private reserve in the Southern Amazon, Cristalino is one of the best eco-lodges in the world, and a haven for the flora and fauna of the Rainforest. Cristalino is known for its exceptional birding opportunities, the naturalist guides living and working here are some of the most knowledgeable on the continent. The 18 spacious bungalows are simple but elegant in their design – in keeping with the natural surroundings of the forest. A floating deck on the Cristalino River is a wonderful place to gather around the fire pit in the evenings as the sounds of the night come alive. The lodge is located beside the Cristalino State Park, with nearly 11.5 hectares of Amazonian biodiversity to discover. There are over 600 species of bird in this region, including the harpy eagle and black-girdles barbet. Anyone interested in a birding holiday in Brazil should make Cristalino their first port of call. Nature adventures include rainforest hikes with wildlife guides and resident botanists, kayaking along the river (particularly beautiful at sunset) and, of course, bird watching beyond your wildest dreams.