Alter do Chão

Known as the 'Caribbean of the Amazon,' this charming riverside town near Santarém features white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters formed seasonally on the Tapajós River. It's a relaxed bohemian destination offering jungle lodges, indigenous village visits, and some of the best river swimming in the Amazon.

Things to do

• Swim at Praia da White Sand Beach — Wade into the crystal-clear waters of the Tapajós River at the famous white sand beach that appears seasonally from July to November.
• Visit Lago Verde (Green Lake) — Take a boat tour to this stunning emerald-green lagoon surrounded by flooded forest, perfect for spotting pink river dolphins and caimans.
• Tour indigenous Tapajó villages — Experience traditional life by visiting nearby indigenous communities to learn about their crafts, traditions, and relationship with the river.
• Jungle lodge stays and forest walks — Stay at one of the eco-lodges in the surrounding rainforest and take guided hikes to spot wildlife and learn about medicinal plants.
• Kayaking on the Tapajós River — Paddle through calm river sections and explore tributary channels to observe birds, pink dolphins, and riverside vegetation.
• Visit Ponta de Pedras viewpoint — Hike to this rocky outcrop overlooking the confluence of rivers for panoramic sunset views over the Amazon landscape.

Food to try

• Tacacá — A hot soup made with cassava broth, shrimp, and jambu leaves that creates a numbing sensation on the palate, served in a gourd.
• Pirarucu de casaca — Shredded Amazon fish layered with cassava flour, herbs, and seasonings, then baked until crispy, showcasing the region's prized fish.
• Açaí na tigela — A thick acai berry bowl topped with granola, banana, and honey, served as a refreshing breakfast or post-activity snack.
• Moqueca de peixe — A fragrant fish stew cooked in coconut milk with tomatoes, peppers, and served with rice and cassava flour.
• Pirarucu grilled at riverside restaurants — Freshly caught Amazon fish grilled whole or in steaks, seasoned simply with lime and served at open-air waterfront eateries.

Local customs & good to know

• Respectful river etiquette — Always ask permission before swimming in unfamiliar areas and be aware that the river conditions change seasonally, affecting water levels and currents.
• Indigenous community protocols — When visiting indigenous villages, hire a local guide, dress modestly, ask before photographing people, and purchase crafts directly to support communities.
• Seasonal timing matters — Plan your white sand beach visit between July and November when water levels recede; the dry season offers the best river activities and wildlife spotting.
• Portuguese and local dialects — While some English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Portuguese phrases is appreciated and necessary for communicating with locals and guides.