BR-319 Manaus to Porto Velho Highway
Amazon's ghost highway demands respect and preparation
The BR-319 cuts a muddy scar through the heart of the Amazon, connecting Manaus to Porto Velho across 900 kilometers of jungle, rivers, and broken dreams. Built in the 1970s and abandoned for decades, this crumbling asphalt ribbon turns into a 4WD nightmare during rainy season, with massive potholes, washed-out bridges, and stretches where the jungle has reclaimed the road entirely. The infamous Igapó-Açu bridge crossing marks the halfway point where many turn back.
This is expert-level overlanding that demands a well-equipped 4WD, multiple spare tires, recovery gear, and enough fuel for the entire journey since services are nearly nonexistent. Dry season (June-September) is mandatory unless you enjoy axle-deep mud for days. Bring water purification, sat comm, and expect 3-5 days of grinding through one of South America’s most challenging and rewarding wilderness routes.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 559 mi / 900 km |
| Duration | 3-5 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 650 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD with recovery gear |
| Nearest town | Manaus, Amazonas |
| Land manager | DNIT - National Department of Transport Infrastructure |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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