Serra do Divisor Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and adventure of Serra do Divisor in Acre, Brazil through this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to local culture, we provide everything you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to Serra do Divisor

Serra do Divisor is a stunning mountain range located in the state of Acre, Brazil, in the North region of South America. It is a vast wilderness area that encompasses approximately 8,300 sq. km. of tropical rainforest, mountains, and rivers. Serra do Divisor has been a national park since 1989, and it is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The name Serra do Divisor comes from the fact that it serves as a natural boundary between Brazil and Peru, and it is the point where three of the Amazon’s great river systems (the Amazon, Juruá, and Purus) originate. The area is known for its remarkable biodiversity and unique flora and fauna. It is home to over 1,000 species of plants, 500 species of birds, and many other animals such as jaguars, giant otters, and peccaries.

List of Places to Visit in Serra do Divisor

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Rubber Tappers: This small museum in the city of Cruzeiro do Sul showcases the history of the rubber trade in the region. Visitors can learn about the hard work of rubber tappers, see artifacts related to the industry, and even try tapping rubber themselves.

  • Xapuri: This charming town is known as the birthplace of environmentalist Chico Mendes, who was assassinated in 1988 for his work to protect the Amazon rainforest. Visitors can visit Mendes’ home and the Chico Mendes Memorial, which honors his legacy and the importance of environmental activism.

Natural Attractions of Serra do Divisor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra do Divisor National Park: The park itself is a natural attraction worth exploring. Visitors can hike the trails to discover stunning waterfalls that cascade through tropical rainforests, including the impressive Cachoeira do El Dorado waterfall that drops nearly 100 meters from its jungle cliff.

  • Rio Acre: The Rio Acre is a beautiful river system that runs through the region and provides many opportunities for water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing.

  • Cruzeiro do Sul Municipal Park: This municipal park in the city of Cruzeiro do Sul is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Serra do Divisor

Serra do Divisor offers a range of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Some of the most popular include:

  • Trilha do Rio Moa: This five-day hike takes visitors along the Moa River and through dense rainforest, where they can see a variety of wildlife and rare plants.

  • Trilha do Canion do Inferno: This challenging hike takes visitors deep into the forest to the edge of a breathtaking canyon, with stunning views and a chance to see rare bird species such as the parrot macaw.

  • Cruzeiro do Sul Bike Route: A good way to explore the city of Cruzeiro do Sul is on two wheels. The bike route runs along the Rio Juruá and provides great views of the river, along with stops at cultural and historical landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Serra do Divisor: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour on the Rio Juruá: Take a leisurely boat tour on the Rio Juruá to experience the river’s beauty and wildlife. Along the way, visitors can stop at riverside communities to learn about local culture and enjoy traditional cuisine.

  • Fishing Tour: Fishing is a major part of the local culture, and visitors can join a guided fishing tour to experience the tradition and catch some of the region’s unique fish species.

  • Eco-tourism Tour: There are many eco-tourism operators in the region that offer guided tours of the rainforest, which can be customized for different interests and abilities. These tours offer a chance to see the region’s incredible biodiversity up close, while also supporting sustainable tourism practices.

Week-Long Itinerary for Serra do Divisor

Day Activity
1 Explore Cruzeiro do Sul Municipal Park, Museum of Rubber Tappers, and the city’s historic center
2 Take a boat tour on the Rio Juruá and visit riverside communities
3 Begin the Trilha do Canion do Inferno hike
4 Complete the Trilha do Canion do Inferno hike and stay overnight in the forest
5 Take a guided eco-tourism tour of the rainforest
6 Join a fishing tour in the region’s lakes and rivers
7 Visit Xapuri and Chico Mendes Memorial before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Serra do Divisor

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tucunaré: This local fish is a must-try dish and can be found on many restaurant menus in the region. It is often served with rice and vegetables.

  • Tacaca: This soup is made with cassava roots, jambú leaves, and a spicy shrimp sauce. It is a traditional dish from the Amazon region and is a popular street food.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: This Brazilian distilled spirit is made from sugarcane juice and is a popular local alcoholic beverage. Visitors can find it in cocktails or served straight up.

  • Guaraná: This fruit is used to make a soft drink that is very popular in the region. The drink is sweet and slightly carbonated.

Where to Stay in Serra do Divisor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Cruzeiro do Sul: This city offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Many of the hotels offer amenities such as swimming pools and restaurants.

  • Rio Branco: This is the capital city of the state and has several options for luxury hotels, as well as budget options such as hostels.

What to Buy in Serra do Divisor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rubber Products: Serra do Divisor was once a major producer of rubber, and visitors can still find a variety of rubber products to purchase, such as footwear and handbags.

  • Handicrafts: The region is known for its indigenous communities, and visitors can find a range of handicrafts made by local artisans, such as baskets, pottery, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Serra do Divisor

The local culture in Serra do Divisor is a mix of traditional Amazonian customs and indigenous heritage. Visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting communities. Visitors should also ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes.

Best Time to Visit Serra do Divisor

The best time to visit Serra do Divisor is during the dry season, from May to September. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, and the roads are more accessible. The wet season, from December to April, brings heavy rainfall, which can make hiking and other outdoor activities more difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Serra do Divisor

Do:

  • Learn about the local culture and customs before visiting.
  • Pack appropriate attire for the region’s climate.
  • Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Book accommodations and tours in advance.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people or their homes without permission.
  • Disrupt local wildlife or vegetation.
  • Bring non-biodegradable materials or litter the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Serra do Divisor

Serra do Divisor is a remote area, and visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. It is recommended to travel with a knowledgeable local guide and avoid traveling alone at night. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Malaria and Dengue fever. Bringing insect repellent and taking other precautions can help reduce the risk of contracting these diseases.

Health in Serra do Divisor

Visitors should consult a healthcare professional before traveling to Serra do Divisor to receive any necessary vaccinations or medications. Insect repellent should be used to protect against mosquito bites and other illnesses. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of dehydration and take precautions such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding overexertion in the heat.

Getting to Serra do Divisor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Serra do Divisor

  • Cruzeiro do Sul International Airport: This airport is the closest international airport to Serra do Divisor, located approximately 30 km from the city of Cruzeiro do Sul.

  • Brigadeiro Camarão Airport: This airport is located in the city of Rio Branco and is approximately 662 km from Serra do Divisor.

Bus Stations Near Serra do Divisor

  • Cruzeiro do Sul Bus Station: The bus station in Cruzeiro do Sul provides connections to other major cities in the region, including Rio Branco.

  • Rio Branco Bus Station: The primary bus station in Rio Branco offers a variety of bus connections to other regions in the country.

Other Options

  • Riverboat: Visitors can hire a riverboat to travel along the Rio Juruá, which provides a unique and scenic option for reaching Serra do Divisor.

How to Get Around in Serra do Divisor

The best way to get around Serra do Divisor is by hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour. The area is remote and can be difficult to navigate without local knowledge. Visitors can also choose to rent a car or motorbike to explore the area on their own, but road conditions in the region can be challenging.

Where to Go Next from Serra do Divisor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rio Branco: This is the capital city of the state and is approximately 662 km from Serra do Divisor. It offers several cultural and historical attractions, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.

  • Mâncio Lima: This small town is located approximately 90 km from Serra do Divisor and is known for its agriculture and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Serra do Divisor is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a variety of outdoor adventures and opportunities to learn about local culture and history. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their trip and make the most of their time in the region. From stunning waterfalls and challenging hiking trails to traditional cuisine and cultural landmarks, there is something for everyone in Serra do Divisor.