Welcome to an Amazonian paradise, where the calm, clear waters of the Tapajós River embrace a hidden gem known as Alter do Chão.
This charming beach village in the state of Pará is internationally known as the “Caribbean of the Amazon” and enchants visitors with its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear freshwater.
Before you dive into this magical journey, let’s explore everything you need to know about Alter do Chão — from how to get there and where to stay, to unforgettable experiences like visiting Ilha do Amor (Love Island), the Enchanted Forest, and so much more.
Get ready to uncover one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in all of Brazil.
What to know before visiting Alter do Chão
Alter do Chão is one of those destinations that captures your heart, but to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience, it’s important to be well-prepared before your adventure begins.
The area around Alter do Chão was originally inhabited by the Borari Indigenous people. It was later explored during Portuguese colonization and became particularly active during the rubber boom, when the region supplied latex.
However, with the decline of the rubber trade, the area shifted its focus to tourism as one of its main sources of income.
Where is Alter do Chão and how to get there?
Alter do Chão is located in the state of Pará, in northern Brazil. It is a riverside village that belongs to the municipality of Santarém, in the western part of the state.
The most common way to get there is by air — fly into Santarém Airport (STM), which receives flights from major cities like Belém, Manaus, and Brasília. From the airport, Alter do Chão is about 35 km (22 miles) away and can be reached by taxi, Uber, private transfer, or local bus.
The road journey from Santarém to Alter do Chão usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes.
When is the best time to visit Alter do Chão?
Like much of the Amazon, Alter do Chão has a rainy season and a dry season. During the rainy season and peak river flooding, many of the beaches and attractions are underwater.
The best time to visit is during the Amazonian summer (dry season), which runs from August to January. During this period, the rivers recede, revealing stunning white-sand beaches, river islands, and more outdoor attractions.
If you want to experience the local culture, consider visiting in September or October, when the region hosts vibrant traditional festivals like Sairé and the Festival of the Botos — a unique mix of folklore, dance, and religious celebration.
How many days to stay in Alter do Chão?
Although it’s a small village, Alter do Chão has many natural and cultural attractions to explore. We recommend spending at least one week to fully enjoy its highlights — from river beaches and nature tours to boat trips and relaxing afternoons by the water.
This gives you time to soak in the slow-paced lifestyle, take a few excursions, and simply enjoy the Amazon at your own rhythm.
Where to stay in Alter do Chão
Finding the ideal place to stay in Alter do Chão is an essential part of planning your trip. The village offers charming options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
You should consider whether you want to stay near the beaches and the village center or prefer accommodations farther out, in closer contact with the Amazon Rainforest.
If you’re looking for lodging close to natural beauty, Praia do Cajueiro is an excellent choice. With the advantage of being near the center and main attractions, this area offers cozy guesthouses and hotels with views of the Tapajós River.
For those who enjoy being in the heart of the local scene, downtown Alter do Chão is full of accommodation options.
From charming inns to more structured hotels, this area is ideal for exploring on foot and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
It’s also possible to book overnight excursions to the Tapajós National Forest or stay in riverside communities, such as Coroca Community.
Regardless of your choice, the warm hospitality of the region is a constant!
What to do in Alter do Chão
Known as the “Caribbean of the Amazon,” Alter do Chão is rich in natural and cultural attractions. When visiting this gem in the Amazon region, there is a wide range of activities and sights to explore:
Sairé Festival
One of the most important events in the region, the Sairé Festival is a folkloric celebration that blends religious, musical, and culinary traditions. It’s a unique opportunity to experience local Indigenous culture in its most authentic form.
Ilha do Amor (Island of Love)
Located on the Tapajós River, Ilha do Amor is a river beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Morro da Piraoca
A short trail leads to Morro da Piraoca, offering panoramic views of the region. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, with a spectacular view over the vast Amazon landscape.
Sunset at Ponta do Cururu or Ponta do Muretá
Ponta do Cururu and Ponta do Muretá are strategic points to witness one of nature’s most stunning shows: the Amazon sunset.
Lago Verde and Enchanted Forest
Lago Verde, surrounded by the Enchanted Forest (Floresta Encantada), is a unique ecosystem offering boat tours to explore the local biodiversity.
These tours, typically through the Caranazal area of the Enchanted Forest, are best experienced during the Amazonian winter (rainy season), when the rivers rise and form navigable waterways through the trees and igarapés (small river channels).
Lago Preto
Lago Preto is a great option for those seeking calm, dark waters—perfect for canoe rides and birdwatching. The water’s dark tone is due to the presence of tannins released by the surrounding forest’s vegetation.
Beaches of Alter do Chão and Belterra
Beyond the famous Ilha do Amor, Alter do Chão is home to other stunning beaches, such as Praia do Cajueiro and Praia do Pindobal. Nearby Belterra also offers beautiful options, including Praia do Limão.
Tapajós National Forest
For nature lovers, the Tapajós National Forest is a must. This protected area offers ecotourism experiences like birdwatching, jungle hikes, sport fishing, and even overnight stays in the forest.
Want to explore more amazing places in Pará?
Check out our article on destinations in Pará!
Jari Canal
The Jari Canal is a natural waterway connecting Lago Verde to the Tapajós River. It offers scenic boat trips and great opportunities for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Açaí Production
Açaí is a native Amazonian fruit and one of the region’s most important products. In Alter do Chão, several riverside communities cultivate açaí. Visiting one of these communities is a fantastic way to learn about açaí harvesting and local consumption traditions.
Visit to a Riverside Community on the Arapiuns River – Coroca Community
Riverside communities in the Amazon offer a unique opportunity to experience local culture and daily life in the rainforest.
One of the most welcoming is the Coroca Community, located on the Arapiuns River, around 4 hours by boat from Alter do Chão.
Here, you can take part in boat tours, fishing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also see the production of artisan honey and handicrafts made from tucuman palm leaves.
Alter do Chão is a one-of-a-kind destination offering a variety of attractions for all types of travelers. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy nature, and immerse yourself in Amazonian culture.
If you’re planning a trip to Alter do Chão, take time to prepare: check the best time to visit, which attractions to prioritize, and how to get around.
Embark on this Amazonian adventure, absorb the energy of Alter do Chão, and let this journey leave a lasting imprint on your heart and soul.
The Amazon awaits you—with all its splendor and uniqueness. Travel with an open heart and the certainty that every corner of this paradise holds a special surprise.
Boa viagem – have a great trip!
