Best of Santarém

Santarém Essentials

Santarém serves as the primary hub for exploring the Tapajós River region and the white sand beaches of Alter do Chão. This collection includes the Ilha do Amor sandbar and the Tapajós-Arapiuns Extractive Reserve, a protected area of rainforest and traditional ribeirinho communities. Cultural highlights feature the Mercadão 2.000 river market, hilltop views from the Mirante, and regional gastronomy at Casa do Saulo. The city also marks the confluence where the blue Tapajós meets the brown Amazon River.

Santarém Essentials — Map

A

Ilha do Amor

Seasonal sandbar located across from Alter do Chão. It features thatched-roof kiosks and calm waters during the dry season, typically from August to December.

B

Praia de Alter do Chão

Freshwater beach on the banks of the Tapajós River, characterized by white sands and water levels that fluctuate significantly between the wet and dry seasons.

C

Tapajós-Arapiuns Extractive Reserve

The Tapajós-Arapiuns Extractive Reserve (Portuguese: Reserva Extrativista Tapajós-Arapiuns is an extractive reserve in the state of Pará,…

D

Casa do Saulo

Restaurant specializing in Tapajós regional cuisine, known for using local ingredients like pirarucu and tucupi. It is situated on a cliffside overlooking the river.

E

Mercadão 2.000

Large public market in Santarém selling Amazonian fish, regional fruits, medicinal herbs, and artisanal products. It serves as a central hub for river trade.

F

Mirante

Observation point offering panoramic views of the Santarém waterfront and the 'Encounter of Waters' where the Amazon and Tapajós rivers meet.

G

Praia do Cajueiro

River beach located near the village of Alter do Chão, known for its namesake cashew trees and clear Tapajós water.

H

Praça Central

Central square in Alter do Chão, serving as a gathering point for local festivals and providing views of the riverfront.

I

Miguel do Jaraqui

Art and cultural space focusing on local craftsmanship and regional identity in Santarém.

J

Local Market

Small market in Alter do Chão featuring regional crafts, food items, and daily essentials for the local community.

K

Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré

Catholic church located in Alter do Chão, serving as a focal point for religious celebrations including the historic Sairé festival.