Things To Do
in Porto Velho
Porto Velho is the capital city of the state of Rondônia in Brazil. It is known for its location on the banks of the Madeira River, offering opportunities for river cruises and fishing trips. The city has a tropical rainforest climate with hot and humid weather year-round.
Porto Velho is also a gateway to the Amazon rainforest, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Candelária Church. Enjoy the architecture and serene atmosphere before heading to a local café for breakfast.
Visit the Museu Internacional dos Correios to learn about the postal history of Brazil. Spend some time walking around the city center and shopping for souvenirs.
Enjoy a traditional Amazonian dinner at a local restaurant. Afterward, take a stroll along the banks of the Madeira River.
Take a guided tour to the beautiful Parque Nacional de Pacaás Novos. Enjoy the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife in this stunning national park.
Have a picnic lunch amidst nature before embarking on a short hike on one of the trails. Look out for exotic birds and unique plants as you explore.
Return to the city in the evening and unwind at a local bar. Enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the sunset over the river.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural resources and biodiversity due to its location in the Amazon rainforest.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, mining, and tourism.
- Cultural diversity with a mix of indigenous, Portuguese, and other immigrant influences.
- Strategic location as a transport hub for goods and commerce in the region.
- Infrastructure challenges, including inadequate public transport and road conditions.
- Environmental concerns related to deforestation and resource extraction.
- High humidity and tropical climate can lead to discomfort and health issues.
- Economic disparities and poverty levels in certain areas of the city.
Best Activities in Porto Velho
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on an adventurous trek through the lush Amazon Rainforest surrounding Porto Velho to explore the diverse flora and fauna.
Experience the beauty of the Madeira River with a scenic boat tour, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and stunning views.
Enjoy a day of fishing in the rich waters of the Madeira River, a popular pastime for both locals and visitors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Porto Velho with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Porto Velho
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views and picturesque photo opportunities
Known for its beautiful sunsets and panoramic views of the city
Historical railway with scenic spots for capturing unique photos
Provides beautiful natural scenery and wildlife photography opportunities
Ideal for capturing the city skyline and river views
Food in Porto Velho
Porto Velho Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Amazonian soup made with jambu leaves, dried shrimp, and tapioca. It's a must-try for its unique flavors and the use of local ingredients. Best enjoyed at the Tacacá do Norte stand in Porto Velho.
Must-Try!
This dish features duck cooked in a savory sauce made from fermented manioc juice, flavored with Amazonian seasonings. One of the best places to savor this delicacy is at the Aipim Restaurant, known for its authentic Amazonian cuisine.
A popular fish stew featuring pirarucu, the largest freshwater fish in Brazil, combined with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Visit the Mercado Cultural to have a taste of this delicious dish served by local vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Porto Velho better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a hub for street food, offering a wide range of Amazonian delights like grilled fish, exotic fruits, and traditional snacks. It's a perfect place to immerse in the local food scene of Porto Velho.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Porto Velho, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations or social interactions.
When addressing people, using formal titles such as 'senhor' (sir) or 'senhora' (ma'am) and using polite greetings like 'bom dia' (good morning), 'boa tarde' (good afternoon), and 'boa noite' (good evening) is considered respectful.
Respecting local customs and traditions, such as participating in community events, trying local foods, and showing interest in indigenous cultures, demonstrates respect for the cultural norms of Porto Velho.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Porto Velho with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Porto Velho
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Porto Velho, Brazil. It is not expected in restaurants, bars, or taxis. However, if you receive exceptional service, you may choose to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.
In Porto Velho, Brazil, cash is widely used for everyday transactions. Major credit and debit cards are also accepted in most establishments, especially in tourist areas. It is recommended to carry some cash for small purchases and in case of any payment issues with cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Porto Velho.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Porto Velho, Brazil. During this time, the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city and its natural attractions.
The wet season in Porto Velho brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the rainforest is lush and vibrant during this time, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
Porto Velho at Night
Hiking in Porto Velho
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning hiking area known for its breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna. It’s located a few hours from Porto Velho and offers several trails for varying skill levels.
Explore the scenic trails along the Rio Guaporé with opportunities for bird watching and experiencing the local wildlife. Ideal for both hiking and canoeing.
This region provides a unique hiking experience along the Brazil-Bolivia border, featuring lush landscapes and opportunities to explore the local culture.
A designated hiking trail located just outside the city, offering a serene nature experience with well-marked paths and occasional wildlife sightings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Porto Velho through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Porto Velho by plane.
The primary airport serving Porto Velho, Brazil, known for domestic flights and limited international connections.
Located in Brasília, approximately 1,000 km from Porto Velho, it's one of the major international airports in Brazil.
Located in Manaus, about 800 km from Porto Velho, it serves as a key international gateway to the Amazon region.
Located in Curitiba, this airport is around 1,600 km from Porto Velho but offers various international flights.
Located in Confins, near Belo Horizonte, approximately 1,500 km from Porto Velho, serving numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group represents a significant portion of the population in Porto Velho, comprising individuals of mixed European, Indigenous, and African descent.
This demographic includes individuals of European descent. They form a notable part of the city's population.
The Black population, primarily of African descent, is an important demographic in Porto Velho.
Indigenous peoples, including various tribes in the region, represent a smaller yet culturally significant group in Porto Velho.
A minor demographic group, consisting mainly of individuals of Japanese and other Asian descents.
The Soul of Porto Velho
Discover the essence of Porto Velho through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Futebol, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Porto Velho, with numerous local teams and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Porto Velho, with various clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and recreational centers, gaining popularity among both men and women.
Street running events are popular in Porto Velho, promoting health and community engagement through local races.
A variant of soccer played indoors, futsal is popular among local youth leagues and schools.
Handball is a growing sport in the region, with increasing participation in schools and local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Porto Velho.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Amazonian cuisine heavily features meats and fish, many restaurants in Porto Velho offer vegetarian and vegan options. Aipim Restaurant and Café Madeira have diverse menus catering to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find suitable options in Porto Velho. Many dishes in the local cuisine are naturally gluten-free, and some restaurants, including Aipim Restaurant, provide specific gluten-free choices on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Porto Velho with these cultural adventures.
