Things To Do
in Santana
Santana is a riverside city in Amapá, Brazil, perched along the Amazon estuary. The city blends Amazonian biodiversity with Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous influences in food, crafts, and music. It serves as a gateway to mangrove wetlands and rainforest excursions while offering a relaxed river-town vibe.
Visitors can enjoy colorful markets, sunset views over the water, and friendly local hospitality that characterizes life on the eastern edge of the Amazon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming Praça da Matriz, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings surrounding the square. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and stopping by local shops that showcase handmade crafts. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh fruits and pão de queijo.
In the afternoon, visit the Museu do Folclore to dive deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Santana. Engage with local artisans as they demonstrate traditional crafts and enjoy interactive exhibits that showcase the folklore of the region. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro, sampling regional delicacies like moqueca or acarajé.
As the sun sets, unwind at a local bar where live music often fills the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for mingling with locals. Savor a refreshing caipirinha while sampling an array of Brazilian tapas, known as petiscos. End your night with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the serene views of the harbor.
Kick off your morning at Praia do Morro, one of the most popular beaches in the area, known for its golden sands and azure waters. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline while enjoying the warm sun and gentle waves. Take a break to indulge in fresh coconut water from a beachside vendor, recharging for the fun ahead.
After a morning full of water activities, enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, where you can savor grilled fish and shrimp dishes. Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach or joining a beach volleyball game with locals and tourists alike. If you're feeling adventurous, consider booking a surf lesson to catch some waves.
As the day winds down, stroll along the beach promenade, enjoying the lively ambiance filled with street performers and local artists. Choose from a variety of beachfront dining options for dinner, perhaps opting for a traditional Brazilian barbecue experience. Relax with a nightcap at a beach bar while watching the stars twinkle above the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Water bottle (0.5-1L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕️Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (bus/taxi ride) | $0.50-2 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and easy access to Amazon ecosystems
- Affordable travel with friendly locals
- Riverfront scenery and sunset views
- Relaxed, family-friendly vibe
- High humidity and heat can be tiring
- Some areas have limited English and basic infrastructure
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Travel to remote areas can require guides and planning
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Eu não falo muito bem português" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
Places to Visit in Santana
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide riverfront with sunsets over the Amazon estuary and colorful boats.
Vibrant market scenes with fruit stalls, fish, and local crafts providing rich color and texture.
Central square offering local life, architecture, and daily activity.
Food in Santana
Santana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tucupi-based soup with jambu leaves and dried shrimp, typically enjoyed from street stalls and riverside shacks.
Must-Try!
River pirarucu fish prepared with jambu leaves, a hallmark of Amazonian flavors.
Frozen açaí pulp blended with toppings like granola, banana, and guaraná syrup.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh fish, tropical fruits, cassava-based snacks, and street foods like tacacá.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a kiss on the cheek depending on familiarity; address people as Senhor/Senhora when polite.
Respect for elders, privacy in religious sites, and modest dress in sacred places; avoid discussing sensitive political topics openly.
Safety
Tipping in Santana
Ensure a smooth experience
Typical tip is 10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up to small coins for drivers and porters is appreciated.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; smaller markets may prefer cash; some places may add a small surcharge for card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; expect lush vegetation and vibrant river light.
Warm days with occasional rain; good visibility for river and forest views.
Rainy season tapers but humidity remains high; mornings can be misty and afternoons sunny.
Dry season with clearer skies and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Santana at Night
Hiking in Santana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hike along flooded forest with wildlife viewing opportunities; best in the cooler morning hours.
Short boardwalk through mangroves offering close-up views of water birds and the river ecosystem.
Airports
How to reach Santana by plane.
Main airport serving Santana with domestic flights and some international connections; short road transfer to Santana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Amapá’s population reflects Indigenous communities, Afro-Brazilian residents, and migrants from across Brazil, creating a diverse cultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include fresh fruits, cassava dishes, rice and beans, and salads; ask for pratos sem carne or peixe sem carne.