Things To Do
in Melgaço
Melgaço is a riverside town in Pará, Brazil, set in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. It blends lush natural scenery with a tight-knit riverine culture where boats, markets, and cassava-based dishes shape daily life. Visitors come to experience warm hospitality, colorful markets, and easy access to nearby wetlands and forest trails.
This small, welcoming town invites travelers to slow down and soak in the Amazonian atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Melgaço's historic center, soaking in the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Stop by the local bakery to savor freshly baked pão de queijo paired with a strong Brazilian coffee. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, a charming church that reflects the town's rich history.
After lunch at a traditional restaurant, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Museu de Melgaço, where you can learn about the town's heritage through fascinating exhibits. Spend some time at the Praça da Matriz, where you can relax and people-watch under the shade of the trees. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank, taking in the beautiful views.
For dinner, indulge in local seafood dishes at a restaurant overlooking the river, experiencing the flavors of the region. After your meal, explore the nightlife scene in Melgaço, where you can listen to live music and mingle with locals. Conclude your evening with a stroll back to your accommodation, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the town at night.
Begin your day at the bustling Mercado Municipal, where you can shop for fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted goods. Engage with local vendors and taste samples of exotic fruits unique to Brazil. This vibrant market experience is a great way to connect with the community and learn about their culinary traditions.
After exploring the market, take a cooking class with a local chef who will teach you how to prepare traditional Brazilian dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by having lunch together, savoring the flavors of your freshly cooked meal. Post-lunch, visit nearby artisan workshops to see local craftspeople at work, creating beautiful pottery and textiles.
As the sun sets, participate in a traditional Brazilian dance class, where you can learn the rhythms of samba or forró. Join in the fun with locals and fellow travelers, creating unforgettable memories on the dance floor. End your night at a cozy bar with a caipirinha in hand, enjoying the lively atmosphere and friendly conversations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🚶Public transport or bus fare | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Amazon river experience
- Affordable prices and welcoming locals
- Rich biodiversity and easy access to nature
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Melgaço
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light reflecting on the water with silhouettes of boats and palm trees nearby.
Vibrant colors, busy stalls, and locals going about their day provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Calm river scenes, reflections, and distant forested banks perfect for wide-angle shots.
Food in Melgaço
Melgaço Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot tucupi broth with jambu leaves and dried shrimp; best sampled at riverfront stalls.
Must-Try!
Duck cooked in tucupi sauce, typically served with rice and manioc flour.
A slow-cooked cassava leaf stew with assorted meats; traditionally prepared for large gatherings.
Refreshing açaí bowl topped with granola, banana, and other fruits.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh fish, fruits, herbs, and regional ingredients; try prepared snacks at the stalls.
Casual vendors selling grilled fish, tapiocas, cassava chips, and fresh juice along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek in casual settings; address elders with respect and use simple phrases in Portuguese.
Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in intimate or family settings.
Safety
Tipping in Melgaço
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in nicer restaurants.
Many places accept cash (Brazilian real) and cards; carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and very humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a poncho; mornings are ideal for outdoor activities.
Melgaço at Night
Hiking in Melgaço
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes through rainforest with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Flat, scenic paths along the river with chances to spot birds and capybaras.
Airports
How to reach Melgaço by plane.
Regional gateway with domestic connections; typically a 1–2 hour drive to Melgaço depending on road conditions.
Major international gateway in the region; longer flight from many destinations but connects to regional hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who live along the Amazon and its tributaries, with livelihoods in fishing and river trade.
Small communities with their own traditions and crafts within the region.
People from other parts of Pará and Brazil contributing to the town's economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in parks and plazas.
Traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art/dance practiced in community centers and cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Melgaço.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Melgaço you can navigate a vegetarian diet by focusing on fruits, vegetables, rice and beans, cassava dishes, and salads; communicate any oil or animal-product restrictions to kitchen staff.