Amazônia National Park Travel Guide

Discover the incredible beauty and natural splendor of Amazônia National Park, Brazil. This guide will help you plan your trip, find the best things to do, where to stay, and much more!


A Comprehensive Guide to Amazônia National Park – Brazil

Amazônia National Park is a popular travel destination located in the northern region of Brazil. The park is home to an incredibly diverse array of wildlife, natural attractions, and cultural landmarks. Visitors to Amazônia National Park have the opportunity to experience Brazil’s natural beauty up close and personal. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Amazônia National Park, including attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.

Introduction to Amazônia National Park

Amazônia National Park was established on February 13, 1974, and covers over 9,000 square kilometers (3,475 square miles) of land in the Brazilian state of Pará. The park is home to an extensive network of rivers and streams, covering a total of 1,100 km (680 miles).

The park is a diverse ecosystem, home to an impressive array of flora and fauna. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including jaguars, ocelots, giant otters, manatees, monkeys, and many species of birds and reptiles.

Visitors to Amazônia National Park can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, birdwatching, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Amazônia National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Espaço São José Liberto: This historic complex contains a museum, an art gallery, and numerous shops selling traditional crafts and jewelry.
  • Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi: This museum is dedicated to the biodiversity of the Amazon region and contains an extensive collection of plant and animal species.
  • Ver-o-Peso Market: This bustling market, located in the heart of Belém, is the largest open-air market in Latin America. Visitors can find fresh produce, seafood, and other goods.

Natural Attractions of Amazônia National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Anavilhanas Archipelago: This archipelago is located in the Rio Negro, and it’s one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the park. Visitors can explore the islands, hike in the rainforest, or take a boat tour to spot wildlife.
  • Cachoeira do Arrependido: This scenic waterfall is located within the park and requires a hike to reach. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
  • Patauá River: This river is one of the main tributaries of the Amazon River, and it’s an important location for fishing and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amazônia National Park

  • Cristalino State Park Trail: This scenic trail takes hikers through the dense jungle, over a series of suspension bridges, and to the Cristalino River.
  • Amazon Jungle Hiking Tour: This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the jungle on a guided hike, during which you can see wildlife and learn about the region’s history and traditions.

Best Things to Do in Amazônia National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour of the Amazon River: A boat tour is the perfect way to experience the park’s vast network of rivers and streams. Visitors can spot wildlife, visit riverside communities, and learn about the region’s history.
  • Canoeing the Anavilhanas Archipelago: This tour is a great way to explore the archipelago while experiencing the tranquility of the rainforest and observing the region’s abundant birdlife.
  • Traditional Indigenous Village Visit: Visitors can visit the Indigenous villages in the park to gain insight into the culture, traditions, and daily life of the region’s indigenous people.

Week-Long Itinerary for Amazônia National Park

Day 1: Arrive in Belém Day 2: Explore Belém and visit the Ver-o-Peso Market. Day 3: Travel to Anavilhanas Archipelago to experience the river and explore the jungle. Day 4: Hike to Cachoeira do Arrependido and enjoy the waterfall. Day 5: Visit an Indigenous village for a unique cultural experience. Day 6: Explore the Patauá River and its surroundings, including fishing and boating. Day 7: Depart Amazônia National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Amazônia National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pato no Tucupi: This traditional Amazonian dish is made with duck, jambu leaves, and tucupi sauce.
  • Maniçoba: This is a traditional dish made with pork, beans, and manioc leaves.
  • Pupunha: This palm fruit is often used in savory dishes and can be enjoyed as a side dish.

Local Beverages

  • Cupuaçu Juice: This refreshing juice is made from the cupuaçu fruit, which is native to the Amazon region.
  • Cachaça: This distilled spirit is made from sugarcane and is a popular choice for cocktails.

Where to Stay in Amazônia National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Belém: Visitors can find a wide range of accommodation options in the city, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and guesthouses.
  • Anavilhanas Archipelago: Visitors can stay in eco-lodges and riverfront guesthouses for a truly immersive rainforest experience.

What to Buy in Amazônia National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade crafts and jewelry: Visitors to Espaço São José Liberto can purchase traditional handicrafts and jewelry made by local artisans.
  • Local produce: The Ver-o-Peso Market is a great place to buy fresh produce, including exotic fruits and vegetables not found outside the Amazon region.

Local Culture and Customs of Amazônia National Park

The region is home to a rich and diverse culture, influenced by indigenous tribes, Portuguese, and African cultures. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes and religious practices.

Best Time to Visit Amazônia National Park

The best time to visit Amazônia National Park is during the dry season, which lasts from June to November. During this time, the weather is mild, and there are fewer mosquitoes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amazônia National Park

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment.
  • Take care not to disturb wildlife and their habitats.
  • Follow safety guidelines.

Don’t:

  • Use single-use plastics.
  • Touch or disturb wildlife.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Amazônia National Park

Visitors should take precautions to stay safe while exploring the park. Avoid traveling alone at night, and be aware of the risks of insect bites and animal encounters.

Health in Amazônia National Park

Visitors should be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria and Zika virus. It’s important to take precautions against mosquito bites, including using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.

Getting to Amazônia National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Amazônia National Park

  • Belém International Airport: This airport is the primary gateway to the region and is located in the city of Belém.

Bus Stations Near Amazônia National Park

  • Belém Bus Station: This station is located in the city of Belém and offers multiple bus routes to the park.

Other Options

Visitors can access the park by boat or car as well.

How to Get Around in Amazônia National Park

Visitors can explore the park on foot, by boat, or by car. Guided tours are also available.

Where to Go Next from Amazônia National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Grand Amazon Cruise: A cruise on the Amazon River is a great way to explore the region and visit nearby cities and communities.
  • Lençóis Maranhenses National Park: This national park, located in the neighboring state of Maranhão, is home to extensive sand dunes and clear water lagoons.

Conclusion

Amazônia National Park is an incredibly diverse and breathtaking destination that showcases Brazil’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors to the park can experience the endless array of outdoor adventures and cultural landmarks. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Amazônia National Park and make the most of your visit.