Santarém

A major Amazon river port where the Tapajós meets the Amazon, Santarém combines colonial history with modern charm and is known for its excellent fish, riverboat culture, and access to nearby ecological wonders. The city serves as a hub for exploring the Tapajós river region and surrounding eco-lodges.

Things to do

• Riverboat tour on the Amazon-Tapajós confluence — Take a guided boat excursion to witness the striking meeting point of two rivers with different water colors and observe pink river dolphins and local wildlife.
• Visit Alter do Chão beach village — Explore this charming riverside settlement 30 km away known for its white-sand beaches, local artisan markets, and relaxed bohemian atmosphere.
• Fordlandia rubber plantation ruins — Tour the abandoned American-built rubber town from the 1920s deep in the jungle to see Art Deco architecture and learn about Henry Ford's failed Amazon venture.
• Museu de Santarém — Explore this small but significant museum housing indigenous artifacts, colonial furniture, and archaeological pieces revealing the region's rich pre-Columbian history.
• Boat trips up the Tapajós River — Navigate upstream into pristine rainforest where you can spot jaguars, sloths, and exotic birds while visiting remote riverside communities.
• Sunset at Praia da Última Volta beach — Watch the day end from this accessible riverside beach within the city limits, popular with locals and offering views of river traffic.

Food to try

• Pirarucu de casaca — A signature Amazonian dish of salted pirarucu fish layered with cassava puree and seasonings, then baked until golden—considered a regional delicacy.
• Tacacá — A hot broth-based soup made with shrimp, cassava starch, and tucupi (fermented cassava juice), typically served in gourds and eaten as a street snack.
• Filé de Tucunaré — Fresh river tucunaré fish fillet lightly grilled or pan-fried, often served with tucupi sauce and rice—showcasing the river's best catch.
• Açaí bowls with local fruits — Thick açaí smoothie topped with granola and regional fruits like cupuaçu and guaraná, widely available at cafés and markets throughout the city.
• Jambu soup — A traditional indigenous soup featuring jambu leaves (which create a numbing sensation) combined with shrimp and other local ingredients.

Local customs & good to know

• River time governs schedules — Boats and river transport run on flexible tidal schedules rather than strict clocks, so inquire locally about departure times rather than relying on posted schedules.
• Respect indigenous heritage sites — When visiting tribal areas or eco-lodges, follow guide instructions strictly and ask permission before photographing communities or sacred spaces.
• Portuguese is essential — English is rarely spoken outside major hotels; learning basic Portuguese phrases or bringing a translation app will greatly enhance your experience.
• Dress for heat and humidity — Lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection are essential year-round; quick-dry fabrics are ideal for the tropical climate and frequent boat travel.