Things To Do
in Santarém
Santarém is a vibrant city located in the state of Pará, in northern Brazil, at the confluence of the Tapajós and Amazon Rivers. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals and folklore that showcase the diverse mix of indigenous, European, and African influences. The city is also a gateway to the stunning Amazon rainforest, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and wildlife exploration.
Visitors can enjoy the bustling markets, historic architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes that make Santarém a unique and memorable destination.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Alter do Chão beach, enjoying the sunrise and the tranquil waters. Take a morning swim or stroll along the sandy shores, soaking in the natural beauty.
Visit the charming village of Alter do Chão to explore local craft shops and taste authentic Amazonian cuisine for lunch. Don't forget to savor some tropical fruits and enjoy the laid-back vibe of the area.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a peaceful boat ride on the Tapajós River. End your day by dining at a riverside restaurant, watching the stars reflected on the water.
Start the day with a visit to the Museu João Fona to learn about the rich history of Santarém. Engaging exhibits share the region's cultural heritage and indigenous traditions.
After lunch, head to the Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Conceição to see its stunning architecture. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and peaceful atmosphere of this historic site.
Explore the local nightlife with a visit to a samba club or a bar featuring live music. Dance the night away, embracing the vibrant culture of the city.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with colonial architecture and local traditions.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Tapajós River and Amazon rainforest.
- Strategic location as a gateway to the Amazon region, facilitating tourism and trade.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and ecotourism.
- Friendly and hospitable local population.
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to larger cities.
- Vulnerability to seasonal flooding and environmental changes.
- Economic challenges, including unemployment and poverty in certain areas.
- Inadequate healthcare facilities and access to quality education.
- Potential safety concerns related to crime in some neighborhoods.
Best Activities in Santarém
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Tapajós River, such as Alter do Chão and Pindobal.
Explore the Amazon rainforest with guided jungle treks and wildlife spotting.
Take boat tours to explore the unique ecosystems of the Amazon River and its tributaries.
Santarém is a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous exotic bird species to spot in the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santarém with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santarém
Visit one of these nice places.
Located along the river offering beautiful panoramic views of the Tapajós River and the Amazon Rainforest.
Historic square with a gazebo offering a picturesque view of the city and the Tapajós River.
Stunning beach area with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for capturing breathtaking coastal views.
Food in Santarém
Santarém Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish featuring duck cooked in a yellow broth made from wild manioc root, served with rice. Best enjoyed at Caboclo's restaurants or local eateries like Boto Tucuxi.
Must-Try!
A popular street food soup made with jambu leaves, dried shrimps, and tucupi broth. Look for vendors at Ver-o-Peso market or during the Tacacá festival.
A flavorful fish stew prepared with pirarucu, a large Amazonian fish, cooked in coconut milk, tomatoes, and peppers. Sample this dish at Barraca do Português or Dona Benta.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santarém better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This iconic market is the heart of Santarém's culinary scene, offering an abundance of fresh produce, regional delicacies, and street food stalls. Don't miss the diverse array of exotic fruits, grilled fish, and local snacks.
A bustling square known for its evening food vendors serving up traditional Amazonian street food such as tucumã and açaí bowls, tapioquinha, and grilled meat skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santarém, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks, especially when meeting for the first time.
It is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, particularly when engaged in conversation.
It is customary to show respect for elders by addressing them with titles such as 'senhor' (for men) and 'senhora' (for women).
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santarém with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santarém
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Santarém, Brazil. Some upscale restaurants and hotels may include a service charge, but it's not expected for patrons to leave an additional tip.
Cash is widely used in Santarém, especially for small transactions and in local markets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, particularly in more urban areas. It's advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards when traveling in Santarém.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santarém.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Santarém, with clear skies and lower chances of rain. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the Amazon River and nearby rainforests. Temperatures are warm but not as hot and humid as during the wet season.
During the wet season, expect frequent rain showers and higher humidity. While this can make outdoor activities more challenging, it's an excellent time for birdwatching and seeing the lush, green landscapes. The Amazon River also reaches higher levels, allowing for boat tours into flooded areas.
Santarém at Night
Hiking in Santarém
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park offering a variety of trails through stunning Amazon rainforest, abundant wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
A scenic hiking trail that showcases the natural beauty and culture of the region, with several paths leading through rural landscapes.
An extractive reserve with hiking opportunities, allowing visitors to experience the unique flora and fauna of the Amazon while engaging with local communities.
A hiking destination that features beautiful waterfalls and trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding nature.
A captivating trail in the region that provides unique geological features and paths that lead to impressive viewpoints.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santarém through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santarém by plane.
The main international airport serving Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, located approximately 225 kilometers from Santarém.
The main international airport serving Manaus, the capital of the state of Amazonas, located about 600 kilometers from Santarém.
An international airport located in Brasília, the capital of Brazil, approximately 1,600 kilometers from Santarém.
Located near the town of Parauapebas, Carajás Airport is focused primarily on regional traffic and is around 450 kilometers from Santarém.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of European descent, often representing a significant portion of the population.
Individuals of mixed race, typically encompassing those of both European and Indigenous ancestries.
Individuals of African descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Indigenous peoples, representing the original inhabitants of the region, with unique cultural identities.
Small population of individuals with Asian descent, including those from Japanese and other Asian backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Santarém, attracting huge crowds and fostering local rivalries.
Widely played and supported, with local teams participating in leagues and tournaments.
Popular among both men and women, often played on local beaches and courts.
Gaining popularity, especially in schools and youth programs across the city.
Encouraged in schools, with local competitions that promote athletic development.
Practiced in local pools and rivers, particularly popular during the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santarém.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Amazonian cuisine heavily features fish and meat, many restaurants and markets in Santarém offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as açaí bowls, fruit salads, and grilled vegetable dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy tapioca-based dishes, fresh fruits, grilled fish, and regional stews, all of which are widely available and naturally gluten-free.