Fordlândia Travel Guide

Discover Fordlândia, a hidden gem in the North of Brazil, with our comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, hiking routes, food and drink recommendations, and more.


Introduction to Fordlândia

Located in the state of Pará, in the North of Brazil, Fordlândia is a small town with a rich history. Established by the Ford Motor Company in the 1920s as a rubber plantation, it was intended to supply the company with a steady source of raw material for tire production. However, due to a variety of factors, including disease, mismanagement, and labor unrest, the project was ultimately a failure. Today, Fordlândia stands as a unique and intriguing example of industrial history and a must-visit destination for travelers looking for something off the beaten path.

List of Places to Visit in Fordlândia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Ford Museum: Housed in the old manager’s house, this museum provides a fascinating overview of the history of the Fordlândia project, including exhibits on the rubber industry, company life, and the town’s cultural heritage.
  • The Santarém House: Once the home of Ford’s accountant, this well-preserved building provides a glimpse into the daily life of the company’s employees.
  • The Church of Our Lady of the Conception: A striking neo-gothic church built by Ford in the 1940s, it boasts intricate stained glass windows and a beautiful marble altar.

Natural Attractions of Fordlândia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Rio Tapajós: Running along the northern border of Fordlândia, this river provides ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating.
  • Fordlândia Beach: Located a short walk from the town center, this picturesque beach offers stunning views of the Tapajós River and the surrounding jungle.
  • Monte do Caboclo: A hike up this nearby hill provides sweeping views of the entire region, including the river, jungle, and town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fordlândia

  • Monte do Caboclo Trail: This 2.5-mile trail takes hikers up the hillside to Monte do Caboclo, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding region.
  • Fordlândia Beach Trail: A 1-mile trail that takes hikers to the stunning Fordlândia Beach, where they can relax and take in the beauty of the Tapajós River.
  • Rio Tapajós Trail: This 4-mile trail follows the banks of the Tapajós River and offers ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Fordlândia: Activities and Tours

  • Rubber Tapping Tour: Learn about the history of the rubber industry in Fordlândia and see firsthand how rubber tapping is done.
  • Boat Tour of the Tapajós River: Take a leisurely boat tour down the river and explore the lush jungle scenery.
  • Birdwatching Expedition: With over 600 species of birds in the region, a guided birdwatching tour is a must for nature enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fordlândia

Day 1: Arrive in Fordlândia, check into your hotel, and take a stroll through the town center.

Day 2: Visit the Ford Museum, followed by a tour of the Santarém House and the Church of Our Lady of the Conception.

Day 3: Hike up Monte do Caboclo and enjoy the stunning views.

Day 4: Take a rubber tapping tour and learn about the history of the rubber industry in Fordlândia.

Day 5: Enjoy a leisurely boat tour down the Tapajós River, followed by a picnic lunch on Fordlândia Beach.

Day 6: Take a birdwatching expedition and spot some of the over 600 species of birds in the region.

Day 7: Depart Fordlândia, taking with you unforgettable memories of your adventure in this unique corner of Brazil.

Food and Drink Scene of Fordlândia

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacacá: A typical dish of the Amazon region, this soup is made from manioc and jambu leaves and is often served with shrimp.
  • Pirarucu: A large fish native to the Amazon, pirarucu is typically grilled and served with a side of farofa, a toasted manioc flour mixture.
  • Mangaba: A small, sour fruit that is often used in salads, juices, and preserves.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: A type of sugarcane liquor that is popular throughout Brazil.
  • Açaí: A delicious and nutritious fruit juice that is made from the açaí berry.
  • Cupuaçu: A fruit from the Amazon that is used in a variety of drinks, including juices and smoothies.

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

  • Hotel Fordlândia: A recently renovated hotel located in the heart of town, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to local attractions.
  • Casa Verde Hostel: A cozy and welcoming hostel that provides affordable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Pousada do Tapajós: A charming guesthouse located on the banks of the Tapajós River, offering stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.

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

  • Rubber Products: From rubber bracelets to keychains, there are plenty of unique and locally made rubber products to buy in Fordlândia.
  • Handicrafts: The region is known for its beautiful handicrafts, such as pottery and woven baskets.
  • Local Food Products: Take home some of the delicious fruits and spices of the region, such as açaí powder or farofa.

Local Culture and Customs of Fordlândia

The culture of Fordlândia is a unique blend of indigenous Amazonian, Portuguese, and American influences. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly and asking for permission before taking photographs of people.

Best Time to Visit Fordlândia

The best time to visit Fordlândia is during the dry season, which runs from July to November. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less chance of rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fordlândia

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended.
  • Disrespect the local community.
  • Ignore safety warnings or guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fordlândia

While Fordlândia is generally a safe destination, visitors should take common-sense precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items.

Health in Fordlândia

Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as the region is home to mosquitoes that may carry mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to Brazil.

Getting to Fordlândia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fordlândia

The nearest airport to Fordlândia is Santarém-Maestro Wilson Fonseca International Airport (STM), which is located approximately 120 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Fordlândia

The nearest bus station to Fordlândia is located in Itaituba, which is approximately 100 kilometers away.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrange for private transportation from nearby cities or towns.

How to Get Around in Fordlândia

Walking is the best way to get around Fordlândia, as the town is small and easy to navigate on foot. Visitors can also arrange for transportation through their hotel or a local tour operator.

Where to Go Next from Fordlândia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Santarém: A bustling city located on the shores of the Tapajós River, Santarém offers a variety of cultural attractions and activities, as well as a lively nightlife.
  • The Amazon Rainforest: Explore the unique flora and fauna of the world’s largest rainforest, located just a short distance from Fordlândia.
  • Belém: The capital of Pará state, Belém is home to a variety of historical and cultural attractions, including the stunning Basilica de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré.

Conclusion

Fordlândia is a hidden gem in the North of Brazil, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the fascinating history of the rubber industry to the stunning views from Monte do Caboclo, there is something for everyone in this charming town. So why not add Fordlândia to your travel list and experience the beauty of Brazil’s North for yourself?

Fordlandia Fordlandia