North of Brazil

Main destinations in Northern Brazil

Northern Brazil is a region full of charms, with destinations that please all types of travelers. From the lush Amazon rainforest to impressive river landscapes, tourism in Northern Brazil offers a variety of unforgettable experiences. Let’s explore some of the main destinations you can’t miss.

Manaus

The capital of Amazonas is a true paradise for nature and culture lovers. With its strategic location in the heart of the Amazon, Manaus offers a unique immersion in the beauty and diversity of Northern Brazil. The Amazon Theater, the Meeting of Waters, and the Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market tell stories of a rich past and a vibrant present.

The city is also a paradise for food lovers. Try typical dishes such as roasted tambaqui and turtle soup in the numerous regional restaurants. Don’t forget to visit Ponta Negra Beach for an unforgettable sunset and MUSA (Amazon Museum) for a panoramic view of the forest. Manaus is a destination that combines nature, culture, and history in one place.

Lear more about the Amazon here

Alter do Chão

Alter do Chão, in Pará, is known as the “Amazon Caribbean”. This charming village offers a unique experience with its freshwater beaches and stunning landscapes. Additionally, Alter do Chão is famous for its local crafts and ecotourism.

Natural attractions, such as Ilha do Amor and Lago Verde, are must-see. The region is ideal for those seeking a combination of relaxation, adventure, and contact with nature. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat ride through the igarapés and watch the sunset at Serra de Piroca.

Jaú National Park

Jaú National Park is one of the main tourism destinations in Northern Brazil. Known for its impressive biodiversity and preserved rivers, the park attracts visitors from all over the world. Visit the Carabinani River waterfalls and marvel at the richness of Amazonian fauna and flora.

Besides natural beauties, Jaú National Park offers the opportunity to meet riverside communities and their traditions. The park is the perfect destination for those seeking a combination of nature, adventure, and environmental preservation.

Lear more about the Amazon here

Belém

Belém is the capital of Pará and an important tourist center in the North. The city offers a perfect combination of history, rich gastronomy, and Amazonian culture.

The region is ideal for those seeking a connection with Pará culture. Visit Ver-o-Peso, the largest open-air market in Latin America, explore Mangal das Garças, and try the famous açaí in a bowl. Belém is a must-visit destination for lovers of gastronomy and Amazonian culture.

What to do in Northern Brazil

Tourism in Northern Brazil offers a myriad of activities for all tastes. From exploring the rich biodiversity to venturing through Amazonian rivers, there’s always something exciting to do. Here are five unmissable activities to make the most of your trip.

Explore the Amazon rainforest

The Amazon is one of the most popular destinations for those visiting Northern Brazil. With its unparalleled biodiversity and lush landscapes, the region offers a unique experience.

Boat trip through the igarapés: Explore the small forest channels and observe wildlife.
Jungle trek: Take a guided trail to get to know Amazonian flora and fauna up close.

Visit indigenous communities

For lovers of culture and traditions, visiting indigenous communities in Northern Brazil is an enriching experience.

Dessana Village: Learn about the traditions and way of life of this community near Manaus.
Tucandeira Ritual: Watch this impressive rite of passage of the Sateré-Mawé Indians.

Discover Amazonian beaches

Northern Brazil surprises with its beautiful freshwater beaches, a differential of tourism in the region.

Tupé Beach: Relax in the crystal-clear waters of this paradise near Manaus.
Tapajós Beaches: Enjoy the white sands and blue waters of the Tapajós River in Santarém.

Explore archaeological sites

Northern Brazil holds secrets of ancient civilizations, offering a unique perspective on the region’s history.

Monte Alegre State Park: Visit the millennial rock paintings in Pará.
Calçoene Archaeological Site: Get to know the “Stonehenge of Amapá”, a pre-Columbian astronomical observatory.

Participate in cultural festivals

Northern Brazil is known for its cultural festivals, which celebrate the rich heritage of the region. Participate in the Parintins Festival in Amazonas or Círio de Nazaré in Belém for an unforgettable experience.

Parintins Festival: Watch the dispute between the Caprichoso and Garantido bulls in this folkloric spectacle.
Círio de Nazaré: Participate in one of the largest religious manifestations in Brazil in Belém.

See tips for itineraries around Brazil

Gastronomy in Northern Brazil

The cuisine of Northern Brazil is one of the most exotic and diverse in the country, reflecting the influence of the various cultures that formed the region. With indigenous, Portuguese, and African influences, Northern gastronomy offers a unique experience for visitors. In the context of tourism in Northern Brazil, trying typical dishes is an unmissable activity that provides a true immersion in local culture.

Typical dishes to try

Tacacá: A hot soup made with tucupi, jambu, dried shrimp, and tapioca gum.
Duck in tucupi: Traditional Pará dish made with roasted duck and tucupi sauce.
Roasted tambaqui: Typical fish of the region, usually grilled.
Açaí in a bowl: Amazonian fruit served as a cold paste, accompanied by granola and other toppings.
Maniçoba: Dish made with cassava leaves cooked for days, pork, and sausages.

Tips for enjoying Northern gastronomy

Typical restaurants: Visit tacacarias in Belém, floating restaurants in Manaus, and flour houses in riverside communities.
Fairs and markets: Explore Ver-o-Peso in Belém and the Adolpho Lisboa Municipal Market in Manaus to taste local delicacies.
Culinary experiences: Participate in Amazonian cooking workshops to learn how to prepare typical dishes.
Gastronomic events: Participate in festivals such as FestiAmazônia in Manaus, which celebrates regional gastronomy.

Exploring Northern Brazilian gastronomy is an essential part of tourism in the region. Each dish tells a story and offers a new perspective on the rich Amazonian culture. Take advantage of these tips and dive headfirst into this unique culinary experience.

Tourism northers brazil — For lovers of culture and traditions, visiting indigenous communities in Northern Brazil is an enriching experience.

How to get to and move around Northern Brazil

Tourism in Northern Brazil begins with a good arrival. There are several options to reach the region, depending on where you’re coming from.

By plane

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Northern Brazil is by plane. The region has airports in several cities, the main ones being:

Manaus International Airport (MAO)
Belém International Airport (BEL)
Macapá International Airport (MCP)

By boat

For an authentic experience, arriving by boat can be a great option. There are regular lines connecting various cities in the region:

Manaus-Belém: A journey of about 5 days along the Amazon River.
Belém-Macapá: A journey of approximately 24 hours along the Amazon River and Marajó Bay.

By bus

For those who prefer to travel by bus, several companies operate interstate lines, connecting Northern Brazil to other regions of the country.

Moving around Northern Brazil

After arriving, it’s important to know how to get around to explore all the wonders that tourism in Northern Brazil offers.

Regional boats

Rivers are the “roads” of the Amazon. Traveling by boat is one of the best ways to explore the region.

Tips:

Bring a hammock and mosquito net for long trips.
Check the itinerary and boat conditions before boarding.

Air taxi and regional flights

For longer distances or hard-to-reach areas, air taxis and regional flights are common options.

Tips:

Book in advance, especially during high season.
Be prepared for possible schedule changes due to weather conditions.

Urban transportation

In large Northern cities, such as Manaus and Belém, public transportation includes buses and, in some cases, BRT systems.

Tips:

Use transportation apps to check routes and schedules.
In Manaus, try the river bus system.

Organized tours

For those who prefer convenience, many travel agencies offer organized tours to the main destinations in Northern Brazil.

Tips:

Research and compare different agencies to find the best offer.
Check online reviews to ensure service quality.

Best time to visit Northern Brazil

Tourism in Northern Brazil happens all year round, but some periods are more suitable depending on what you’re looking for:

Dry season (June to November)

If you want to explore forest trails and river beaches, the dry season is the best time. Temperatures are high, but rain is less frequent.

Rainy season (December to May)

For those who prefer to see the forest at its maximum lushness and navigate full igarapés, the rainy season is ideal. It’s also the best time for bird watching.

Festivals (June and October)

June is the month of the Parintins Folklore Festival, while October is marked by Círio de Nazaré in Belém. These are excellent times for cultural immersion.

Discover the best time to visit Brazil

FAQ – Tourism in Northern Brazil

Do I need a visa to visit Northern Brazil?

If you’re Brazilian, you don’t need a visa. For foreigners, check the specific requirements of your country.

What’s the best time to visit Northern Brazil?

Northern Brazil can be visited all year round, but the dry season (June to November) is ideal for those who want to explore trails and river beaches, while the rainy season (December to May) is perfect for seeing the forest at its maximum lushness.

What are the main typical foods of Northern Brazil?

Tacacá, duck in tucupi, roasted tambaqui, açaí in a bowl, and maniçoba are some of the dishes you should try. Northern cuisine is rich in flavors and traditions.

How can I get around Northern Brazil?

You can use regional boats, air taxis, regional flights, or hire tours with local agencies. In large cities, public transportation and transportation apps are good options.

Is it safe to travel through Northern Brazil?

As with any destination, it’s important to take basic precautions. Avoid unknown areas at night, always be aware of your belongings, and prefer to use hotel safes to store valuables.

Where can I withdraw money?

You can withdraw money from Brasil ATM ATMs, which are available in several Northern cities. It’s always good to have cash for small purchases and in more remote locations.

What are the main tourist destinations in Northern Brazil?

Some of the main destinations include Manaus, Alter do Chão, Jaú National Park, and Belém. Each offers a unique experience.

Explore Northern Brazil and discover a world of possibilities. Whatever your travel style, tourism in Northern Brazil has something special waiting for you.