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COP 30 (the 30ᵗʰ Conference of the Parties under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) will be held in Belém, Pará, Brazil, from 10 to 21 November 2025. 

This edition is especially significant: it is the first time the Amazon region is hosting a COP, bringing the world’s climate priorities literally to one of the lungs of the planet. Belém is often called the gateway to the Amazon, and its selection underlines Brazil’s intention to place biodiversity, indigenous rights, forest protection, and sustainable development at the heart of global climate negotiations. 

For foreign attendees, COP 30 is an opportunity not only to witness high-level diplomacy, but to experience Brazil in its most ecological, cultural, and geographical dimension. 

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to understand what COP 30 is, why it is historic, what to expect, and practical tips for travel, safety, accommodation, and cultural immersion in Belém and the surrounding Amazon region.

What is COP 30?

COP stands for “Conference of the Parties,” which are the member states that have signed onto the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change).

Since the UNFCCC entered into force in 1994, COP has convened almost every year, bringing together nearly 200 countries to negotiate climate action, make commitments, review progress, and strive to limit global warming.

COP is the main global mechanism by which countries submit, discuss, and revise their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), pledges that describe what each country will do to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change. 

It also serves as a platform for NGOs, indigenous communities, scientists, businesses, and civil society to influence and monitor climate policy. Key topics often include financing, forests, renewable energy, justice (climate justice), loss & damage, adaptation, and mitigation.

Some previous COPs that are particularly important to understand the evolution of global climate policy:

• Paris 2015 (COP21): Agreement that set the internationally recognized goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. It remains a reference point for COP30. 
• Glasgow 2021 (COP26): Emphasized coal phase-out, stronger climate finance, and voluntary commitments. 
• COP29 in Baku 2024: Focused on reviewing NDCs, promising stronger financial commitments, and preparing the path to COP30.

And why COP 30 matters for global climate goals?

• COP30 arrives at a critical time. Global temperature increases have already exceeded or are dangerously close to 1.5°C, the limit scientists say must be respected to avoid the worst effects of climate change. 
• Because it is being held in Belém, in the heart of the Amazon, it brings geographic and symbolic importance: discussing forests, biodiversity, indigenous rights, and environmental justice in a place deeply impacted by deforestation and climate vulnerability gives COP30 an authenticity and urgency many previous COPs couldn’t match. 
• The global community expects here renewed commitments on emissions, stronger funding for adaptation, new or updated NDCs, and clearer pathways for a just transition away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy and low-carbon development.

When and where will COP 30 take place?

COP 30 will take place from 10 to 21 November 2025 in Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, in northern Brazil. The city will host tens of thousands of delegates, scientists, government representatives, journalists, and environmental activists from all over the world. As with every United Nations Climate Change Conference, the event will include plenary sessions, negotiations, side events, and public spaces dedicated to civil society, indigenous groups, and youth movements.

The main venue will be the Hangar Convention and Fair Center of the Amazon (Hangar Centro de Convenções da Amazônia), located in central Belém. This modern complex is being expanded to accommodate large delegations and exhibitions, and the city is also preparing new infrastructure for accessibility, transport, and security. Additional activities are expected to take place in cultural and university spaces across the city, highlighting local innovation and environmental initiatives.

Belém’s selection as the host city is deeply symbolic. It stands at the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet and a vital natural regulator of Earth’s climate. Hosting COP 30 in the Amazon brings the discussions on deforestation, indigenous rights, and sustainable development directly to the region most affected by these issues. It is the first time in history that a COP will be held in a city within the Amazon basin, a clear message about the global importance of protecting tropical forests.

Brazil’s leadership in organizing COP 30 also reflects its renewed commitment to environmental diplomacy. Under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil has sought to reestablish itself as a key actor in international climate policy, pledging to reduce deforestation to near zero by 2030 and to strengthen the transition to renewable energy. By bringing world leaders to Belém, the Brazilian government aims to position the country not only as a guardian of the Amazon but also as a model for balancing development with sustainability.

For many observers, COP 30 in Belém represents a historic convergence of science, politics, and local culture, an opportunity for delegates to see firsthand the challenges and the beauty of the Amazon while negotiating the future of the planet’s climate.

Why Belém, Brazil was chosen for COP 30?

The decision to host COP 30 in Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, is one of the most symbolic choices in the history of the United Nations Climate Conferences. For the first time, the world’s most important environmental summit will take place in the heart of the Amazon region, a location that embodies both the challenges and the solutions of the global climate crisis.

The Amazon rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the planet’s climate, absorbing billions of tons of carbon dioxide each year. Yet, it is also one of the most threatened ecosystems on Earth. Deforestation, illegal mining, wildfires, and loss of biodiversity have intensified in recent decades, making the protection of the Amazon essential for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement. Hosting COP 30 in Belém brings the discussion directly to the frontlines of climate change and sends a strong message about the urgency of protecting tropical forests.

For Brazil’s government, bringing COP 30 to Belém is also a statement of leadership. The country’s environmental policies have shifted toward restoration and conservation since 2023, under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who has pledged to achieve zero deforestation by 2030. By hosting the conference in the Amazon, Brazil hopes to show the world that it is committed to balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

Another key reason for choosing Belém is its cultural and social diversity. The city is home to Indigenous, Afro-Brazilian, and riverine communities whose knowledge and way of life are deeply connected to the forest. Their participation in COP 30 is expected to give the event a unique human perspective on sustainability, reminding leaders that climate solutions must respect and include local populations.

In short, Belém’s selection as host city is not only a logistical decision, but a symbolic act that connects global diplomacy with the realities of those who live in and depend on the Amazon rainforest every day.

What to expect from COP 30

COP 30 will be a turning point in the global fight against climate change. Taking place ten years after the Paris Agreement, the 2025 conference will serve as a critical checkpoint for evaluating global progress and setting new commitments for the coming decade.

The main agenda of COP 30 will include a comprehensive review of national climate pledges (NDCs), updates on carbon markets, and new agreements on climate financing to support developing countries. The world will also look for stronger commitments to phase out fossil fuels, accelerate the shift toward renewable energy, and promote a green and inclusive economy.

Some of the key themes expected to dominate discussions include:

• Deforestation and forest conservation: Protecting the Amazon and other major ecosystems will be central to negotiations.
• Renewable energy transition: Expanding clean energy sources such as solar, wind, and bioenergy.
• Carbon markets and climate finance: Improving mechanisms for fair and transparent carbon trading and funding adaptation projects in the Global South.
• Climate justice and Indigenous rights: Recognizing the critical role of Indigenous peoples in protecting biodiversity and mitigating climate risks.

The event will bring together world leaders, environmental ministers, scientists, NGOs, and youth activists from nearly 200 countries. Beyond the official negotiations, hundreds of side events, panels, and exhibitions will take place, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society.

Because the conference will be held in the Amazon region, the environmental debates will be especially tangible. Participants will not only discuss the science of climate change — they will witness its reality in the landscapes, communities, and ecosystems of northern Brazil. The presence of Indigenous and local representatives will give the summit an unprecedented level of authenticity and urgency.

In many ways, COP 30 will not just be a conference, it will be a global call to action, set against the backdrop of one of the most important natural regions on Earth.

Traveling to Belém for COP 30

Reaching Belém for COP 30 is relatively straightforward, even for international visitors, though most travelers will connect through major Brazilian cities such as São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. The city is well-served by domestic flights and has good infrastructure to welcome large numbers of participants during the summit.

How to get to Belém

Belém is located in northern Brazil, more than 2,000 km from São Paulo and about 3,000 km from Rio de Janeiro. The easiest and fastest way to reach the city is by plane.

• From São Paulo: Daily direct flights depart from Guarulhos (GRU) and Congonhas (CGH) airports. The flight time is around 3 hours and 20 minutes.
• From Rio de Janeiro: Several daily flights connect Galeão (GIG) or Santos Dumont (SDU) airports to Belém, with an average duration of 3 hours and 40 minutes.
• From Brasília: The country’s capital is another convenient connection point, with flights of about 2 hours and 15 minutes to Belém.

For international travelers, there are currently no direct long-haul flights to Belém from Europe or North America. The best option is to connect via São Paulo, Rio, or Brasília, where you’ll clear immigration and customs before boarding your domestic flight.

During the COP 30 period, airlines are expected to add extra flights and increase capacity to accommodate visitors. Booking early, ideally several months in advance, is strongly recommended, as demand will be high across all routes.

Airports and transfers

The city is served by Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL), located just 12 km (7.5 miles) from downtown Belém. It’s a mid-sized airport that handles both domestic and regional flights and is undergoing upgrades ahead of the conference.

Upon arrival, travelers can reach the city center in about 20–30 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing app (Uber operates normally in Belém). There are also shuttle and transfer services provided by hotels and local tour operators, these can be pre-booked for convenience.

If you plan to explore beyond Belém during your stay (such as visiting Marajó Island or Alter do Chão), the airport area also offers car rental agencies. However, within the city itself, taxis and ride apps are usually sufficient and more practical.

Visa and entry requirements

For most visitors, entering Brazil is straightforward, but requirements depend on nationality:

Citizens from the EU, UK, and most Latin American countries can enter Brazil visa-free for up to 90 days.

Travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia will need to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) starting in April 2025, as part of Brazil’s new entry policy. The process is online and typically takes only a few days.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry, and you may be asked to show proof of onward travel or sufficient funds for your stay.

It’s always a good idea to check the latest updates from the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Brazilian consulate before traveling.

Health considerations

Belém has a tropical climate, hot, humid, and rainy, so visitors should take a few health precautions.

• Vaccinations: A yellow fever vaccination is strongly recommended (and sometimes required for travelers from certain countries). Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination with you.
• Mosquito protection: Use insect repellent and wear light clothing, especially if visiting outdoor areas or nearby forests.
• Water and food safety: Tap water is not recommended for drinking; always opt for bottled or filtered water.
• Travel insurance: Make sure your travel insurance covers medical assistance and emergencies in Brazil. Health care in major cities like Belém is good, but private hospitals and clinics can be expensive for foreign visitors without insurance.

If you’re visiting Brazil for COP 30 or exploring the Amazon region, getting travel insurance is essential. It protects you against unexpected events like flight delays, lost luggage, or medical emergencies and gives you peace of mind while traveling abroad.

You won’t pay anything extra by booking through our affiliate link, but it helps support the Do in Brazil project and allows us to keep creating helpful guides for travelers like you.

With good planning, getting to Belém for COP 30 is smooth and rewarding. The city’s location in the Amazon basin makes it a once-in-a-lifetime destination, not only for attending one of the world’s most important environmental conferences, but also for discovering the beauty, culture, and biodiversity of northern Brazil.

Where to stay in Belém during COP 30

Finding the right place to stay in Belém will make your COP 30 experience much more comfortable. As the city prepares to welcome thousands of visitors from around the world, hotels are expected to reach capacity quickly, so booking well in advance is essential.

Belém has a variety of accommodation options, from international hotel chains to local guesthouses and boutique stays. Most visitors will want to stay close to the main COP 30 venues and central attractions for easier transportation and safety.

Best neighborhoods to stay

• Batista Campos

One of the most charming and peaceful neighborhoods in Belém, Batista Campos offers tree-lined streets, cozy cafés, and easy access to downtown. It’s close to the Hangar Convention Center and has many hotels and restaurants nearby.

• Nazaré

A central, elegant district known for its colonial-style houses, Nazaré is ideal for those looking for comfort and convenience. The Theatro da Paz, Nazaré Basilica, and various cultural attractions are just a short walk away.

• Umarizal

Often considered Belém’s most modern area, Umarizal has a lively dining and nightlife scene. It’s home to upscale hotels, shopping centers, and some of the city’s best restaurants, perfect for travelers who want both work and leisure.

• Waterfront and Estação das Docas area

Staying near the waterfront puts you right by the Guajará Bay, where you can enjoy river views, seafood restaurants, and a vibrant evening atmosphere. This area is also close to Belém’s main tourist attractions and can be a great base for sightseeing before or after the conference.

Here are the top-rated hotels in Belém on Booking.com:

• Flat in Hotel Radisson
• Hotel Riviera D Amazonia Belem Ananindeua
• Vila Galé Collection Amazônia
• Ecopousada Miriti
• Casa e Suíte Brisa do Bosque

Booking Tips

• Reserve early: COP 30 will attract thousands of participants, journalists, and tourists, so accommodation will fill up months in advance. Try booking at least 6–9 months before November 2025.
• Check cancellation policies: Weather and logistics in the Amazon can sometimes affect travel plans, so flexible reservations are recommended.
• Look for airport transfers: Many hotels in Belém offer transfer services to and from Val-de-Cans Airport, a convenient option if you’re arriving late at night or traveling with equipment.
• Consider sustainability: Some local hotels are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as recycling programs and solar energy, a great choice for travelers attending a climate-focused event like COP 30.
• The Brazilian government has made available on its website tips and partner accommodations for COP30.

Safety and useful tips for visitors

Belém is a vibrant city full of culture, colors, and flavors, but as with any large urban area in South America, visitors should take a few precautions to stay safe and comfortable during their stay. With a bit of planning and awareness, you’ll be able to explore the city and the Amazon region with confidence.

Safety advice for foreign travelers

Belém is generally welcoming to tourists, especially in areas frequented by visitors such as Estação das Docas, Mangal das Garças, Ver-o-Peso Market, and the Nazaré neighborhood. However, it’s important to stay alert, particularly in crowded areas and at night.

• Avoid displaying valuables such as jewelry, expensive cameras, or large sums of cash.
• Use ATMs inside malls or hotels, rather than on the street.
• Take registered taxis or ride apps (Uber and 99 are the most common). Avoid flagging random taxis on the street at night.
• Stick to well-lit and busy areas after dark, especially near the waterfront and markets.
• Ask locals or your hotel staff for advice on which neighborhoods to avoid if you’re exploring on foot.

Police presence is expected to increase during COP 30, especially around event venues and hotels, but it’s always best to take standard precautions.

Transportation in Belém

Getting around Belém is relatively easy, though public transport can be limited for visitors unfamiliar with the system.

1. Taxis and ride apps: Uber and 99 work reliably and are the safest and most convenient options for foreign travelers. Fares are affordable, and drivers typically use GPS navigation.
2. Buses: The city has a wide bus network, but routes can be confusing and crowded. They’re better suited for locals than tourists.
3. Walking: Belém’s central areas, especially Nazaré, Batista Campos, and Estação das Docas, are walkable during the day, but avoid isolated streets at night.
4. Boats and ferries: For those extending their trip beyond COP 30, ferries connect Belém to nearby islands like Ilha do Combu or Marajó Island, offering a glimpse of Amazonian life along the rivers.

If you’re attending COP 30, shuttle services and special transport routes are expected to be organized between hotels, the Hangar Convention Center, and key landmarks in the city.

Climate and clothing tips

Belém has a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it’s hot, humid, and often rainy all year round. Temperatures usually range between 25 °C and 33 °C (77 °F – 91 °F), with heavy afternoon showers that pass quickly.

• Light, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen is ideal.
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are a must for exploring.
• Carry a light raincoat or umbrella, as showers can appear suddenly.
• Stay hydrated, as humidity levels are high, and the heat can be intense for those not used to tropical weather.
• Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent are essential, especially if you plan to visit natural areas or take boat tours along the Amazon River.

Even indoors, air conditioning can make temperatures drop significantly, so bringing a light jacket or sweater for evenings and conference sessions is a good idea.

Check out our article on what to pack for Brazil!

Money, currency, and language

The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL, symbol R$). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and most shops, but it’s always wise to carry a bit of cash for street markets, taxis, and small vendors.

1. ATMs (caixas eletrônicos) are available across the city, especially in shopping malls and banks.
2. When paying by card, you’ll often be asked: “Crédito ou débito?” (credit or debit).
3. Tipping is optional but appreciated, restaurants usually include a 10% service charge on the bill.

While Portuguese is the official language, English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas and hotels. Learning a few basic phrases can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:

Olá / Oi > Hello / Hi

Por favor > Please

Obrigado(a) > Thank you

Quanto custa? > How much is it?

Onde fica…? > Where is…?

Água, por favor > Water, please

Locals are friendly and patient, and even small efforts to speak Portuguese are warmly appreciated.

Belém may be far from Brazil’s most visited destinations, but its mix of Amazonian nature, vibrant culture, and welcoming people make it a memorable place to visit, especially during a historic global event like COP 30.

What to eat in Belém

Belém is a paradise for food lovers. Known as one of the culinary capitals of Brazil, the city’s gastronomy is a vibrant mix of Amazonian ingredients, Indigenous traditions, and Portuguese influences. Its dishes are colorful, flavorful, and unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the country.

Typical Amazonian dishes

• Açaí: Forget the smoothie bowls you’ve seen abroad, in Belém, açaí is served pure and unsweetened, often as a side dish to grilled fish or shrimp. It’s dense, earthy, and deeply rooted in local culture.
• Tacacá: A traditional soup made from tucupi (a yellow broth extracted from wild manioc), jambu (a local herb that tingles your mouth), and dried shrimp. It’s served steaming hot in a gourd bowl and sold by street vendors across the city.
• Maniçoba: Sometimes called “Amazonian feijoada,” this dish is made from manioc leaves cooked for seven days and mixed with pork, sausage, and spices. It’s rich, hearty, and best enjoyed on weekends or special occasions.
• Peixe frito (fried fish): Fresh river fish like tambaqui or pirarucu are fried and served with cassava flour, rice, and vinaigrette. It’s a staple in Amazonian cuisine and one of the simplest, yet most delicious, meals you’ll find.

No culinary trip to Belém is complete without visiting the Ver-o-Peso Market, one of the oldest and most iconic markets in Brazil. Facing the Guajará Bay, it’s a sensory explosion of colors, smells, and sounds. You’ll find everything from exotic fruits (cupuaçu, bacuri, taperebá) to medicinal herbs, handmade crafts, and freshly caught fish.

Try tasting fresh açaí, tacacá from a street stall, or fried tapioca pastries while watching locals shop and socialize. Early mornings are the best time to visit if you want to see the market at its liveliest.

Here are the top-rated restaurants in Belém on TripAdvisor:

• Restaurante Ver O Açaí – Umarizal
• Point do Açaí
• Amazônia Na Cuia
• Remanso do Peixe
• Santa Grelha Belém

What to do in Belém beyond COP 30

While COP 30 will bring plenty of official events and discussions, visitors should take time to discover the beauty and diversity of Belém itself. The city combines colonial architecture, lush nature, and a laid-back tropical rhythm that captures the spirit of northern Brazil.

Cultural attractions

• Theatro da Paz: One of Brazil’s most beautiful opera houses, built in the 19th century when Belém flourished during the rubber boom. Guided tours reveal its rich architecture and fascinating history.
• Mangal das Garças: A stunning ecological park on the banks of the Guamá River, featuring walking trails, an aviary, and observation towers with panoramic views of the city. It’s a favorite spot for photography and nature lovers.
• Estação das Docas: A revitalized waterfront complex with restaurants, bars, and cultural spaces housed in restored port warehouses. It’s perfect for an evening stroll, dinner, or a refreshing Amazonian craft beer.

Have you ever thought about taking a panoramic tour of Belém? Book yours now!

Day trips from Belém

If you have extra days before or after the conference, there are incredible short trips from the city that allow you to experience the Amazon more deeply:

• Ilha do Combu: Just 15 minutes away by boat from Belém’s waterfront, this island offers riverside restaurants, cocoa plantations, and a peaceful escape surrounded by lush vegetation.
• Marajó Island: The largest river island in the world, famous for its buffalo herds, artisanal cheese, and traditional Marajoara pottery. Ferries leave daily from Belém, and it’s worth spending at least a night there.
• Amazon River tours: Several agencies offer guided day trips along the Guamá and Acará rivers, combining visits to Indigenous or riverside communities and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Connections to other destinations in Pará

Belém is also the gateway to some of northern Brazil’s most spectacular natural destinations:

• Alter do Chão: Often called the “Caribbean of the Amazon,” this town near Santarém has white-sand river beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxing after COP 30.
• Santarém: A charming city located between the Tapajós and Amazon rivers, offering eco-lodges, forest tours, and stunning viewpoints.
• Amazon Rainforest excursions: From Belém, you can arrange multi-day adventures into the forest, including wildlife watching, canoeing, and visits to sustainable communities.

Whether you stay in the city or venture deeper into the Amazon, Belém offers a rare opportunity to combine global dialogue with authentic local experiences — a reminder that climate action and cultural discovery can go hand in hand.

Sustainability and local impact

Belém is not just hosting COP 30, it is transforming itself in preparation for it. The arrival of one of the world’s most important environmental conferences has accelerated urban, social, and environmental initiatives across the city. For residents and visitors alike, this transformation is an opportunity to experience a city that is embracing sustainability at its core.

The local and federal governments are investing in urban infrastructure, mobility, and environmental management to ensure Belém can handle the influx of thousands of participants. Major works include the revitalization of roads, expansion of the Hangar Convention Center, improvements to public transportation, and the modernization of Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL).

In addition, the city is enhancing its waste management systems and expanding access to clean water and sanitation, with support from international partners. These improvements are not only for the event but are part of a long-term plan to make Belém a model of sustainable development for other Amazonian cities.

Hosting COP 30 has also strengthened Belém’s commitment to green innovation. The city is expanding urban parks, reforesting degraded areas, and encouraging eco-friendly mobility, such as electric buses and bike-sharing systems.

The event is expected to leave a lasting environmental legacy, inspiring local entrepreneurs and institutions to invest in renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and environmental education.

For visitors, this creates unique opportunities to experience eco-tourism in and around Belém. Travelers can explore mangroves, rivers, and forest trails guided by local communities who practice sustainable fishing, cocoa cultivation, and forest conservation. Tours to nearby destinations like Ilha do Combu, Marajó Island, and Mangal das Garças are excellent examples of how tourism can support conservation while creating income for local families.

The success of COP 30 will also depend on the involvement of local communities, particularly Indigenous peoples and riverine populations who have long been guardians of the Amazon. Many local NGOs and social movements are already participating in training programs to ensure their voices are represented at the conference.

Universities and schools in Belém have joined these efforts by organizing workshops, educational programs, and cultural events that highlight the importance of sustainability, biodiversity, and climate awareness. This engagement ensures that COP 30 is not just an international event held in Belém, but one that belongs to Belém.

COP 30 in Belém will be more than another climate summit, it will be a milestone in global environmental diplomacy. By taking place in the Amazon, this conference brings the world’s attention to the very ecosystem that sustains life on Earth. It represents a powerful reminder that climate discussions cannot remain distant from the realities of those who live in and depend on nature every day.

The event is expected to shape the next decade of global climate policy, influencing decisions on carbon reduction, biodiversity protection, and financial support for developing nations. But its greatest legacy may come from the connections it builds — between science and tradition, between nations and communities, and between global action and local change.

For visitors, COP 30 offers not only the chance to witness international diplomacy in motion but also to experience the heart of the Amazon, its rivers, forests, and people. Belém invites the world to look beyond negotiations and rediscover the planet’s most vital lesson: that protecting nature is inseparable from protecting ourselves

Frequently Asked Questions about COP 30