Santarém Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and more in Santarém with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Santarém

Located in the state of Pará in Brazil, Santarém stands out as a vibrant city that boasts a mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and history. Situated on the banks of the Amazon River, the city is known for its impressive biodiversity, lush forests, and a diverse range of outdoor activities. Santarém is also home to a variety of cultural and historical attractions that reflect the region’s indigenous heritage.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture nerd, Santarém offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and more in Santarém.

List of Places to Visit in Santarém

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Santarém is home to several museums and historical sites that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

  • Museu Dica Frazão: The museum provides visitors insights into Santarém’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The museum displays artifacts, art, and exhibits dating back to the colonial period.

  • Forte do Presépio: The historic fort, located in the heart of Santarém, was built in the 17th century to defend the city against invaders.

  • Catedral da Nossa Senhora da Conceição: Known for its impressive architecture, the cathedral is a must-visit for its beautiful stained glass windows and religious imagery.

Natural Attractions of Santarém: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Santarém boasts an array of natural attractions that will leave visitors in awe. From lush forests to scenic waterfalls, there’s plenty to explore. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Alter do Chão: The small town is known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and beautiful sunsets.

  • Amazon Rainforest: The region offers visitors a chance to explore the world’s most biodiverse and fascinating habitats, with immersive hikes, and camping options.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santarém

If you’re an adventurer, Santarém has several challenging biking and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some of the fantastic hiking and biking routes are:

  • Monte Alegre: The site provides visitors with a scenic route and an erupting volcanic crater.

  • Forest of Trombetas: The lush forest is home to an incredible range of flora and fauna and offers visitors an unforgettable experience.

Best Things to Do in Santarém: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for an action-packed vacation, Santarém is an ideal destination. Here are some of the region’s best activities and tours:

  • Canoeing tour to Maracanã Village: The tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s biodiversity and meet the locals.

  • Leadership Paddle Workshop: Visitors can experience the traditional canoeing activities while learning new skills with knowledgeable guides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santarém

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Santarém, here’s an itinerary that covers all the fantastic sights and experiences the city has to offer:

Day Activity
1 Visit Museu Dica Frazão and Cathedral of Santarém
2 Trek at Monte Alegre and explore the city’s dining options
3 Visit the Forte do Presépio
4 Embark on a canoe tour and discover Maracanã Village.
5 Take a Leadership Paddle workshop
6 Hike at Trombetas Forest
7 Visit Alter do Chão and enjoy the town’s stunning beaches

Food and Drink Scene of Santarém

Santarém’s food scene is a mix of traditional cuisine and contemporary influences. The region’s culinary traditions draw on its locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish, exotic vegetables, and fruits. Here are some of the dishes and drinks visitors must try out:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacacá: It’s a traditional Amazonian soup prepared using manioc, dried shrimp, and jambu.

  • Pato no Tucupi: A signature dish of Santarém, Pato no Tucupi is a boiled duck broth served with manioc starch and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Cupuaśu Juice: The fruit, which is native to the region, is a favorite beverage among locals and visitors alike.

  • Açaí Juice: The drink, made from the Açaí fruit, is a favorite among health enthusiasts.

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

Santarém offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget and needs. Most hotels fall within the mid-range to luxury category. Here are some of the top accommodations:

  • Grand Amazon Hotel: The 5-star hotel boasts excellent service, amenities, and personalized experiences.

  • Tapajós Center Hotel: The hotel is located in the heart of Santarém and offers guests easy access to the city’s attractions.

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

Santarém is a perfect destination for picking up souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the top items to consider taking back home:

  • Handmade jewelry and crafts: The region is known for its handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and other decorative items.

  • Amazonian Spices: The region’s spices, such as jambu and guaraná, provide unique flavors and additions to any dish.

Local Culture and Customs of Santarém

Santarém cherishes its local customs, music, and dance. The region’s culture is a mix of indigenous influences and foreign traditions. Visitors should make an effort to experience the region’s vibrant culture by attending events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Santarém

The best time to visit Santarém is from July to November. During this time, the wet season ends, and the weather becomes mild and enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santarém

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Santarém:

Do:

  • Try out the local delicacies.

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Overlook the region’s natural beauty.

  • Swim in the Amazon without the guidance of an experienced guide.

  • Be disrespectful towards the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santarém

Santarém is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. However, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or at night.

Health in Santarém

Apart from mosquito bites, which pose a risk of contracting dengue fever and malaria, there are no known health issues risks in Santarém. Visitors should use mosquito nets or repellants to minimize the risks.

Getting to Santarém: Transportation Options and Logistics

Santarém is accessible by air, road, and water. Here are some of the transportation options:

Airports Near Santarém

  • Santarém-Maestro Wilson Fonseca International Airport: The airport is located about 10 kilometers from downtown Santarém and serves domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Santarém

  • Santarém Bus Terminal: Buses run regularly from other cities in Pará and destinations in other states.

Other Options

  • Private Car Services: Visitors can hire private cars or taxis for a more comfortable and personalized travel experience.

How to Get Around in Santarém

Santarém offers a variety of transportation options for the comfort of travelers. Visitors can use buses, taxis, boats, and private cars to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Santarém: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santarém serves as an excellent starting point from which visitors can explore the wider Amazonian region. Some of the nearby destinations include:

  • Manaus, Amazonas: Manaus, the capital of Amazonas, is a vibrant city with a lively cultural scene and a gateway to the Amazon River.

  • Belém, Pará: Belém is a former colonial capital with an intricate history, beautiful architecture, and a lively food scene.

Conclusion

Santarém is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the Amazon’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. We hope this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of the trip to this incredible destination.