Audio Guide of the CIGS Zoo

The zoo is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and advance booking is required by contacting the center. To get there, head to the military base at kilometer 6 of the AM-352 highway in Manaus; arriving by taxi or private transport is recommended, and you must present identification at the entrance. More details are available on the official Brazilian Army website or by calling +55 (92) 3335-2000.

Admission is free for visitors, as it is a military facility open to the public for educational purposes, although in some cases there may be a symbolic R$ 5 maintenance fee. It includes access to the animal exhibits and a brief orientation; individual entry without a military guide is not allowed. Check for updates on the official website.

It is recommended to allow at least 2 hours for a full visit, including the route through enclosures with animals such as jaguars, monkeys, and rainforest birds. If you go in a guided group, it may extend to 3 hours with detailed explanations. It is a compact experience, ideal for a morning.

CIGS, or the Jungle Warfare Training Center, was founded in 1964 by the Brazilian Army to train soldiers in jungle environments, and its zoo houses rescued or native animals to educate visitors about Amazonian biodiversity and the military's importance in the region. It represents Brazil's historic role in protecting the rainforest and national defense, attracting tourists interested in military history and nature.

The best time is during the dry season, from July to November, when the weather is cooler and there is less rain in Manaus, making the outdoor visit easier. Go early in the morning, around 8:00 a.m., to avoid the intense afternoon heat and to see the animals more active. Avoid rainy weekends during the wet season from December to June.

The zoo has dirt paths and some uneven areas, so it is not fully wheelchair accessible, but the Army offers limited assistance with guides to help on short stretches. It is recommended to contact +55 (92) 3335-2000 in advance for special arrangements or to check whether there are adapted routes. For more information, see the official website.

Near CIGS, about 20 to 30 minutes away by car, you can visit the Amazon National Park or the Manaus Botanical Garden for more nature. Also nearby is the Amazon Theatre in the city center, 15 km away, a cultural icon. Combine your visit with a tour of Adolpho Lisboa Market for a fuller Manaus experience.

Bring insect repellent, light and comfortable clothing, closed shoes, and sunscreen, as it is a jungle environment; do not forget water and a camera. Book in advance and be punctual, since the tours are guided and in groups; respect military rules by avoiding photos in restricted areas. For more tips, check reviews on TripAdvisor.