Pará Travel Guide (North/Brazil/South America)

Introduction to Pará

Pará is one of the largest states in Brazil, located in the northern region of the country. It is known for its vast Amazon rainforest, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The state is home to many indigenous tribes, and their customs and traditions still influence the local way of life today. If you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or history buff, Pará should definitely be on your travel list.

List of Places to Visit in Pará

Pará has many interesting places to visit. Here are some of the top tourist attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi – features exhibitions on the biodiversity of the Amazon, indigenous cultures, and scientific research.
Fortaleza do Presépio – a fortress built in the 17th century to protect the city of Belém from invaders.
Basílica de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré – a beautiful church built in the 18th century, famous for hosting the largest Catholic religious festival in Brazil.

Natural Attractions of Pará: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ilha de Marajó – an island in the Amazon River Delta, famous for its beaches, wildlife, and waterfalls.
Rio Tapajós – a scenic river with crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and gorgeous sunsets.
Floresta Nacional do Tapajós – a national forest with various trails for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pará

If you’re looking to explore the outdoors, Pará has several hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Trilha da Pedra Caída – a hiking trail in the Serra dos Carajás, with waterfalls and rock formations.
Ciclo Rota Belém – a bike trail that runs along the coast of Belém, providing stunning views of the city and the river.
Trilha da Serra do Pirocaua – a challenging trek through the rainforest, with breathtaking views of the Amazon River.

Best Things to Do in Pará: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Pará, from exploring the rainforest to tasting the local cuisine. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

Boat tour of the Amazon River – a must-do activity in Pará, where you can observe the local wildlife, visit indigenous villages, and witness the immense beauty of the river.
Tasting the local cuisine – Pará is known for its delicious cuisine, such as acai bowls, tacacá, and dishes made with fresh fish.
Visit to local markets – Belém has some famous markets, such as Ver-o-Peso and Feira do Açaí, where you can buy local handicrafts, fruits, and spices.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pará

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Pará:

Day	Activity
1	Arrival in Belém, sightseeing at Forte do Presépio
2	Boat tour of the Amazon River
3	Trekking at Floresta Nacional do Tapajós
4	Visit to Ilha de Marajó
5	Exploring the museums and cultural attractions in Belém
6	Tasting the local cuisine at Ver-o-Peso market
7	Departure from Belém

Food and Drink Scene of Pará

Pará has a rich and diverse culinary scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Acai na tigela – a smoothie bowl made with acai berries and topped with granola, fruits, and honey
Tacacá – a typical Amazonian soup made with dried shrimp, jambu herb, and manioc starch
Pato no Tucupi – a stew made with duck, tucupi sauce, and jambu herb

Local Beverages

Caipirinha – Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime
Cupuaçu juice – a refreshing drink made from the cupuaçu fruit, which has a flavor similar to chocolate
Guaraná soda – a popular fizzy drink made from the guaraná fruit, which is native to Amazônia

Where to Stay in Pará: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pará has a wide range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. Here are some of the best choices:

Radisson Hotel Belém – a 4-star hotel in the heart of Belém, with a rooftop pool and panoramic views of the city.
Belém Hostel – a budget-friendly hostel that offers dorms and private rooms, located in the historic district of Belém.
Goramirim Guest House – a charming guesthouse in the city of Santarém, with comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Pará: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, Pará has many options. Here are some suggestions:

Handicrafts – Pará is known for its Amazonian handicrafts, such as wooden masks, pottery, and woven baskets.
Spices – Belém has many markets that sell Amazonian spices, such as black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon.
Cachaça – a popular Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane, which is produced in several regions of Pará.

Local Culture and Customs of Pará

The local culture and customs of Pará are diverse and fascinating. The state is home to many indigenous tribes, such as the Munduruku and the Kayapó, who still preserve their traditions and way of life. Visitors should show respect and sensitivity towards their culture.

Best Time to Visit Pará

The best time to visit Pará is during the dry season, which runs from July to November. The weather is milder, and the river is lower, making it easier to explore the rainforest and visit the indigenous communities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pará

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Pará:

Do:

Respect the local culture and traditions.
Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Bring insect repellent and sunscreen for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

Participate in any activities that harm the environment or wildlife.
Wear revealing clothes in public places.
Take pictures of the indigenous people without their permission.

Safety and Health

While Pará is generally a safe destination, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Pará

Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas.
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
Use reputable tour operators for outdoor activities.

Health in Pará

Get vaccinated before your trip, and bring mosquito repellent and antimalarial medication.
Drink bottled water, and avoid tap water and ice.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms of illness.

Getting to Pará: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pará is well-connected to the rest of Brazil and neighboring countries. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Pará

Belém/Val-de-Cans - Júlio Cezar Ribeiro International Airport – the main airport in Pará, with domestic and international connections.
Santarém-Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport – a regional airport with flights to several destinations in Brazil.

Bus Stations Near Pará

Belém Bus Station – the main bus terminal in Belém, with connections to several cities in Brazil.
Santarém Bus Station – the main bus terminal in Santarém, with connections to several cities in Pará and beyond.

Other Options

Boat – you can reach some destinations in Pará by boat, such as Ilha de Marajó and Alter do Chão.
Car Rental – you can rent a car in Belém or Santarém

How to Get Around in Pará

Pará is a large state, and the best way to get around depends on your destination. Here are some transportation options:

Bus – there are bus services that connect several cities and towns in Pará.
Taxi/Uber – you can find taxis and Uber in major urban areas like Belém.
Boat – for destinations along the river, such as Santarém and Ilha de Marajó, taking a river taxi or ferry is a popular and scenic option.

Where to Go Next from Pará: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pará is surrounded by many interesting destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some suggestions:

Salvador, Bahia – a vibrant city known for its colorful culture, music, and architecture.
Jericoacoara, Ceará – a laid-back beach town with stunning sand dunes and clear waters.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Maranhão – a unique national park with white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons.

Conclusion

Pará is a fascinating destination with a rich mix of nature, culture, and history. Whether you’re interested in the Amazon rainforest, indigenous cultures, or delicious cuisine, Pará has something to offer. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now well-equipped to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Pará.

Pará Image Gallery

Location of state Pará in Brazil

Amazônia National Park