Things To Do
in Abunã

Abunã is a river town in Rondônia, Brazil, set along the Abunã River near Porto Velho. It blends riverine communities, forest landscapes, and a simple, adventurous pace of life. The area is lush, wildlife-rich, and experienced primarily by travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path Amazon experiences.

The surrounding rainforest and waterways make it a gateway for ecotourism and authentic Amazonian culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Abunã
morning
:

Arrive at Abunã, Brazil, where the lush greenery and vibrant local culture welcome you. Check into your accommodation and take some time to freshen up after the journey. Enjoy a hearty Brazilian breakfast at a local café to kickstart your adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the charming streets of Abunã, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the town. Visit the marketplace to experience local crafts and produce, interact with friendly vendors, and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll by the riverside to relish the natural beauty surrounding you.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, where traditional Amazonian dishes await you. Savor the flavors of freshly caught fish alongside rice and beans, accompanied by a refreshing caipirinha. As night falls, enjoy the ambient sounds of the Amazon rainforest that create a magical atmosphere.

day 2
Exploring the Amazon River
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a guided boat tour of the Amazon River, where you can witness the incredible biodiversity up close. Your guide will point out various bird species, monkeys, and exotic plants as you traverse the winding waterways. Take photos and breathe in the fresh air as you soak in the beauty around you.

afternoon
:

Visit a local indigenous community along the river to learn about their traditions, culture, and day-to-day life. Engage with the community members, creating a connection that deepens your understanding of the Amazonian way of life. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the locals, often featuring dishes made from native ingredients.

evening
:

Return to Abunã and unwind at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Choose a different restaurant to explore more flavors of Brazilian cuisine, possibly trying local game meat or exotic fruits. End your day with a reflection on the experiences and connections made during your journey.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
🏨Night in a budget hotel$15-40
🚗Local transportation (short ride)$1-5
Coffee or juice$1-3
🛒Market groceries$3-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Remote riverine scenery with wildlife
  • Warm, welcoming communities
  • Excellent for fishing and birdwatching
  • Low crowd levels and off-the-beaten-path charm
  • Limited infrastructure and occasional access challenges
  • Smaller selection of restaurants and services
  • Heat and humidity can be intense
  • Travel to Porto Velho or other hubs required for major services
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o…?" - Where is the…?
  • "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
  • "Eu gostaria de pagar em dinheiro" - I would like to pay in cash
  • "A comida é saborosa" - The food is tasty
  • "Pode me indicar um guia?" - Can you recommend a guide?

Places to Visit in Abunã

Visit one of these nice places.

Abunã River Docks at Dawn

Golden light over calm waters, working boats, and rippling reflections.

Riverside Market Stalls

Vibrant colors, fishing nets, and close-ups of produce and ready-to-eat snacks.

Sunset Over the River Bridge

Wide horizon with silhouettes of boats and palm trees as the sun goes down.

Culinary Guide

Food in Abunã

Abunã’s cuisine centers on river fish, cassava, fruits, and dishes that come from forest and riverine life. Expect bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and meals that are often shared with family or neighbors.

Abunã Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A hot tucupi-based soup with jambu leaves and shrimp or dried fish, typically enjoyed at riverfront stalls.

Must-Try!

Pirarucu or tambaqui grelhado

Grilled Amazon fish served with farofa and peppers.

Moqueca de peixe (fish stew)

Citrusy, light stew made with local river fish and herbs.

Pamonha de peixe

Fish wrapped in banana leaf and steamed, a regional favorite.

Açaí na tigela

Chilled açaí puree served with toppings like fruit and granola.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Fluvial de Abunã

Riverfront market where fresh fish, cassava, fruits, and prepared snacks are sold.

Street stalls along the riverfront

Casual bites like fried plantains, cassava chips, and fresh juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Abunã has a hot, humid tropical climate with a distinct wet season (roughly Oct–Apr) and a drier period (roughly May–Sep). Temperatures typically range from 24–34°C (75–93°F) year-round, with high humidity and frequent sudden rain showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly 'bom dia' or 'olá'; handshakes are common.

Respect for communities and nature

Ask permission before entering private property or visiting communities; dress modestly near settlements and during ceremonies; avoid loud behavior at night.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay mindful near water and in the forest; use a guide for jungle walks; carry insect repellent to reduce mosquito bites; keep valuables safe and avoid isolated areas after dark; health facilities are basic, so travel insurance is advisable.

Tipping in Abunã

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

If service charge is not included, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated for meals and guides. Tipping for small purchases is discretionary.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Dec–Mar)

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry rain gear and sun protection; river levels rise and boat routes may be affected by rain.

Dry Season (May–Sep)

Lower rainfall, more comfortable hiking, and clearer rivers; evenings can be cooler; mosquitoes persist.

Shoulder Months (Oct–Nov)

Mix of sun and rain; wildlife viewing can be rewarding in early mornings.

Nightlife Guide

Abunã at Night

Nightlife in Abunã is low-key and communal. You’ll find small riverside bars offering cold drinks, local music, and casual conversations with residents. Weekends may bring informal gatherings or dances in community spaces; behavior is friendly and relaxed, with little emphasis on nightlife venues.

Hiking in Abunã

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Mirante da Abunã

Forest overlook offering river views and canopy scenery.

Trilha da Reserva Local

Short jungle trail through a nearby reserve focusing on ecology and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Abunã by plane.

Porto Velho–Governador Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira International Airport (PVH)

Main gateway to the region; access to Abunã may involve road or river travel depending on conditions.

Getting Around

Walkability

Abunã’s small center is fairly walkable, especially along the riverfront. However, most sights require motorized transport or boat trips. Roads can be unpaved and uneven, particularly in the rainy season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo (Pardo)

The largest demographic mix in the region, blending Indigenous and European heritage.

Indigenous communities

Smaller groups in the broader region with distinct cultures and languages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Futebol)

The most popular sport locally; informal games are common on weekends.

Fishing

River fishing for pirarucu, tambaqui, and other Amazon species.

Transportation

Traffic

Local traffic is light; main routes can be unpaved and slow in rainy weather. River transport is essential for longer trips, with schedules influenced by water levels and weather. Public transit options are limited, so hiring a guide or taxi is common for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Abunã.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on cassava, rice, beans, fruits, and vegetables; clearly ask for no fish stock or tucupi sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is basic in Abunã with small clinics; for more serious needs, travel to Porto Velho offers hospitals and specialists. Bring essential medications and a travel health kit; ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation if needed.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide