Welcome to the heart of the Amazon, where the waters dance and nature sings in its wildest forms. This is Pará, the second-largest state in Brazil!
In our guide, we’ll explore the wonders this extraordinary destination has to offer — from the bustling streets of Belém to the serene waters that kiss its remote beaches.
Whether you’re planning a visit to the capital, Belém, or eager to get lost in the quiet corners of Santarém, we’re here to guide you on an unforgettable journey.
Before diving into the details, find out what you need to know before you go, how much time to dedicate to this green paradise, and the best times to explore its many sides. Ready? Let’s go!
What you need to know before traveling to Pará
Before arriving in this land of diverse wonders, there are a few essential things to know to make the most of your experience in Pará.
First, when planning your trip, keep in mind the vastness of the state — it spans from vibrant urban landscapes to untouched corners far from civilization. Ask yourself: which side of this paradise do you want to explore?
Pará is the second-largest state in Brazil, second only to Amazonas. You can get there by flying into the airports in Belém or Santarém. It’s also possible to travel by road, although the journeys can be long.
How many days should you spend in Pará?
The answer to this question depends entirely on your appetite for discovery. If you plan to stay only in Belém, the capital, 4 to 5 days may be enough to absorb the city’s rich culture and history.
However, for a full immersion — exploring more remote destinations like Alter do Chão and Marajó Island — a week or more would be ideal.
When is the best time to visit Pará?
Pará has two distinct seasons: a rainy season and a dry season, each shaping the landscape in unique ways.
If you want to see the Amazon in all its lush glory, consider visiting during the rainy season, from December to May, when the forest is vibrant and the rivers are at their fullest.
On the other hand, the dry season, from June to November, offers more accessible trails and unique opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Some destinations, like Alter do Chão, have more to offer during the dry season, so always research the best time to visit each place you want to explore within Pará.
What to do in Belém, Capital of Pará, Brazil
On the shores of the Marajó Bay, Belém enchants visitors with its markets filled with exotic flavors, like the famous Ver-o-Peso. Travelers can explore the historic center with its colonial architecture and taste unique dishes from Pará’s rich cuisine. The main attractions include:
- Historic Center
- Parque da Residência
- Praça da República (Republic Square)
- Teatro da Luz
- Estação das Docas
- Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi
- Ver-o-Peso Market
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Belém
- Bosque Rodrigues Alves
- Complexo Feliz Lusitânia
- Basílica de Nazaré
- Espaço Cultural das Onze Janelas
- Praça do Relógio (Clock Square)
- Mangal das Garças
- Espaço São José Liberto
- Utinga State Park, and much more!
If you’re in the city on the second Sunday of October, don’t miss the Círio de Nazaré, the largest religious celebration in Brazil! This festival has been held for over 200 years and gathers around 2 million people.
What to do in Santarém
On the banks of the Tapajós River, Santarém is a gateway to the Amazon Rainforest. Known for the unique natural phenomenon where the Amazon and Tapajós rivers meet without mixing, the city offers amazing opportunities to explore nature — including freshwater beaches and the Tapajós National Forest. Be sure to visit:
- Santarém Riverfront (Orla de Santarém)
- João Fona Cultural Center
- Arapluns River
- Dica Frazão Museum
- Tapajós National Forest
- Maicá Lake
- Caparanari Beach
- Nossa Senhora da Conceição Cathedral
- Aruã Waterfall
- Santarém Zoo
- Boat Dock (Porto dos Barcos)
What to do in Alter do Chão
A district of Santarém, this gem of Pará is famous for its freshwater beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located on the banks of the Tapajós River, Alter do Chão is known as the “Caribbean of the Amazon.” During the dry season, its beaches emerge, creating a natural spectacle. Don’t miss:
- Nossa Senhora da Saúde Parish
- Cururu Beach
- Ponta do Cururu
- Ilha do Amor (Love Island)
- Serra da Piraoca
- Ponta do Muretá
- Lago Verde (Green Lake)
- Ponta de Pedras
- Ponta do Jari
- Maguari Community
- Jamaraquá Community
- Tapajós National Forest (which also covers this area)
What to do on Marajó Island
The largest river-maritime island in the world, Marajó is a natural and cultural treasure. Located at the mouth of the Amazon River, it boasts rich wildlife, wild beaches, and buffalo farms — making it a truly unique destination. Joanes and Salvaterra are must-see towns to explore.
The Marajó Sustainable Development Reserve is home to stunning fauna, including exotic birds like scarlet ibises, herons, spoonbills, and jabirus.
The iconic water buffalo, brought by Portuguese colonizers, are also a striking presence and play an important role in local culture.
The Marajoara culture, with its indigenous roots, is another fascinating highlight. Handmade ceramics, skillfully sculpted by local artisans, are true works of art that reflect the region’s unique heritage.
In addition, traditional festivals and folk dances offer visitors an authentic immersion into Marajoara traditions. Be sure to visit:
- Salvaterra
- Soure
- São Jerônimo Farm (to meet the local buffalo)
- Mironga Farm
- Pesqueiro Beach
- Street craft shops
- Furo do Miguelão (a scenic waterway)
- Barra Velha Beach
- Céu Beach
- Farol Island
- Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church
- Joanes Ruins, among others
What to do in Afuá
Known as the “Marajoara Venice,” Afuá is a town with a unique charm, featuring water streets and stilt houses. Located in the Marajó Archipelago, visitors can explore its canals in traditional boats.
Another fun way to get around is by riding a “bicitáxi” (bike taxi). In fact, motor vehicles are prohibited on the streets — only bicycles are allowed! That’s why Afuá is also known as the “Copenhagen of the Amazon.”
If you’re in Pará in July, be sure to check out the Shrimp Festival in Afuá!
What to do in Bragança
Located in northeastern Pará, Bragança is a charming city that blends historical allure with a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its paradisiacal beaches, the city offers an authentic experience of Pará’s culture.
Beaches like Ajuruteua and Tracuateua are must-see destinations. With golden sands and crystal-clear waters, they provide breathtaking scenery to relax and enjoy the tropical climate.
Beyond the beaches, Bragança’s historic center reveals its colonial past. The Church of Santo Alexandre, built in the 18th century, is an architectural landmark that reflects Portuguese influence in the region. Strolling through the quiet streets and observing the local architecture is a great way to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. Don’t miss:
- Fishermen’s Village
- Ajuruteua Beach
- São Benedito Lookout
- Mangroves
- Saltworks
- Blue Lagoon
- Casa da Farinha (Flour House)
- Cerâmica da “Vila que Era” (local pottery)
- Lagoa Azul Recreation Area
- São Benedito Lookout, among others
If you visit in December, don’t miss the Marujada de São Benedito, a celebration with over 200 years of tradition! It takes place on December 26 and features the traditional “retumbão” dance, full of color and joy!
What to do in Óbidos
This historic city on the banks of the Amazon River preserves colonial buildings and a peaceful charm. Known for its lively street carnival, Óbidos offers a deep dive into Pará’s rich culture.
Local handicrafts, especially handmade lace, stand out as long-preserved traditions. Be sure to explore:
- Óbidos Integrated Museum
- Óbidos Lagoon
- Óbidos Barracks
- Óbidos Docks
- Municipal Market
- Culture Square
- Fort of Santo Antônio dos Pauxis
- Stilt Houses
- Serra da Escama
- José Veríssimo Palace
- Bela Vista Indigenous Village
- Curuçambá Canal, among others
What to Do in Salinópolis
Popularly known as Salinas, this town is famous for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s a beloved summer destination for people from Pará — and for some, the best beach spot in the entire state! The best time to visit is during the Amazon summer, from August to November. The main attractions include:
- City center, perfect for photos
- Atalaia Beach, the most famous
- Espadarte Beach
- Maçarico Beach
- Corvina Beach
- Farol Velho Beach
- Salinópolis Lighthouse
- Fishermen’s Square
- Aqualand Park
- Salinas Park, and much more!
What to do in Serra das Andorinhas in São Geraldo do Araguaia
For nature lovers, Serra das Andorinhas offers hiking trails and spectacular landscapes. It’s the perfect destination for ecotourism and for admiring Amazonian wildlife and vegetation.
The region sits at the transition zone between two biomes: the Cerrado and the Amazon rainforest. Strategically located in São Geraldo do Araguaia, a welcoming town near the border with Tocantins, it’s home to the second-largest open-air rock art site in Brazil.
The weather is pleasant for visits throughout most of the year, but the dry season (May to September) is the best time to explore the trails, which are more accessible during this period.
Don’t miss:
- One of the thousand caves in the region
- Three Falls Waterfall (Cachoeira 3 Quedas)
- Bridal Veil Waterfall (Cachoeira Véu de Noiva)
- Devil’s Cauldron Waterfall (Cachoeira Caldeirão do Diabo)
- The archaeological records at Casa de Pedra
What to do on Algodoal Island / Maiandeua Island
Maiandeua means “Mother Earth” in Tupi — and it’s easy to see why: saltwater beaches, mangroves, freshwater lakes, dunes, streams, and more await on this incredible island.
Known as Algodoal Island because of the native “silk cotton” plant, this ecological paradise is located in the town of Maracanã, Pará.
Its secluded beaches, such as the famous Praia da Princesa, are surrounded by dunes and mangroves. The island is a peaceful haven for anyone seeking a direct connection with nature. To get there, you must take a boat from Marudá Port or Maracanã.
Highlights include:
- Praia da Princesa
- Lago da Princesa (Princess Lake)
- Praia de Fortalezinha
- Praia da Vila do Algodoal
- Praia Marudá
- House of Carimbó music, and more
What to do in Igarapé-Açu
Igarapé-Açu means “path of the big canoe” in Tupi. This riverside town with strong Indigenous influence is notable for preserving its traditions. Visitors can explore local communities, discover Indigenous handicrafts, and taste authentic Pará cuisine.
The town stands out for its natural attractions, with rivers and small streams inviting contemplation and connection with nature. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the region’s rich biodiversity.
What to do in Monte Alegre
Rich in archaeological sites, Monte Alegre is a journey through time. With rock paintings over 12,000 years old and impressive geological formations, it’s a paradise for history and archaeology lovers.
Points of interest include:
- São Paulo Square
- Serra do Itauajuri, the city’s highest point
- Monte Alegre State Park, which features trails, viewpoints, caves, and more!
To experience these historically and culturally important places, don’t forget to do so through Community-Based Tourism!
What to do in Alenquer
On the banks of the Amazon River, Alenquer offers river beaches, century-old churches, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can explore local culture and relax by the riverside.
You can also visit waterfalls such as Vale do Paraíso, Bridal Veil (Véu da Noiva), and Princesa, as well as an archaeological site called City of the Gods (Cidade dos Deuses).
The City of the Gods is made up of wind-carved rock formations — and it’s truly impressive. If you’re visiting in June, make sure to enjoy the celebration of Saint Anthony, the town’s patron saint.
Other attractions include Curumú Lake and the Canyon, known for its abundance of precious stones.
Exploring Pará means diving into a world of diversity — whether in its natural landscapes, the cultural richness of its communities, or the history that unfolds in each city.
From the charm of Belém, to the wild beauty of Marajó Island, the peaceful waters of Alter do Chão, and the archaeological wonders of Monte Alegre, the state reveals itself as a unique destination that captivates travelers of all kinds.
Whether you’re looking for adventures in the Amazon, peaceful moments on paradise-like beaches, or immersion in riverine culture, Pará offers a wide array of options for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable journey.
Get ready to discover what this Amazonian state has to offer — exploring its beauty, flavors, and traditions, and creating memories that will surely stay in your heart forever.
