Imagine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear blue water—not on the coast, but in the middle of the Amazon rainforest. Welcome to Alter do Chão, a unique destination in northern Brazil that blends tropical paradise with jungle mystique.
Often called the “Caribbean of the Amazon”, this laid-back village in the state of Pará offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience where beach culture meets river life.
Where Is Alter do Chão?
Alter do Chão is located in the municipality of Santarém, in the western part of Pará state. It sits on the banks of the Tapajós River, a tributary of the Amazon, and is known for its seasonal river beaches, which appear during the dry months.
How to Get There
Step 1: Fly to Santarém (STM)
- Daily flights from Belém, Manaus, and Brasília
- From Santarém Airport, it’s about a 30-minute drive to Alter do Chão
Step 2: Take a taxi or transfer
- Taxis and vans are available at the airport
- Some pousadas offer private transfers
Despite its remote location, Alter do Chão is easy to reach and increasingly popular with Brazilian and international travelers.
When to Visit Alter do Chão
| Season | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| August–December | Beaches visible, dry season | Swimming, hiking, boat tours |
| January–June | High water levels, lush landscapes | Canoeing, Amazon exploration |
The best time to visit is between September and November, when river levels drop and the beaches are at their largest.
Top Things to Do in Alter do Chão
1. Relax at Ilha do Amor (Love Island)
This iconic sandbank forms during the dry season and offers:
- Warm, shallow water for swimming
- Beach bars with local food and drinks
- Canoe or paddleboard rentals
Sunset views from the sandbank are unforgettable.
2. Hike to Serra da Piraoca
A short but steep trail (~1 hour) leads to the highest point in the area.
- Panoramic view of Tapajós River and Love Island
- Best done early morning or late afternoon
Bring water, proper shoes, and a camera.
3. Take a Boat Tour on the Tapajós River
Explore nearby beaches, creeks, and forest areas:
- Visit Ponta de Pedras and Praia do Cajueiro
- See Amazonian wildlife and native vegetation
- Stop at riverside communities to experience local culture
Full-day tours often include lunch and snorkeling stops.
4. Visit Lago Verde (Green Lake)
A calm lagoon surrounded by jungle, great for:
- Canoe rides through igarapés (narrow streams)
- Birdwatching and quiet relaxation
- Exploring the Igarapé dos Macacos, a flooded forest
Best visited during the high-water season (Feb–May).
5. Explore Flona (Tapajós National Forest)
A deeper Amazon experience just an hour from Alter:
- Guided hikes with local indigenous guides
- Giant trees like Sumaúma and Castanheira
- Visits to riverside communities and handicraft centers
Great for ecotourism, educational travel, and photography.
Where to Stay
Accommodations range from simple guesthouses to riverside eco-lodges.
Recommended options:
- Vila Arumã Pousada – Eco-friendly with stunning river views
- Pousada do Tapajós – Cozy and central, close to Love Island
- Beloalter Hotel – Larger, with pool and jungle surroundings
Book in advance during September festivals or holidays.
What to Eat
Alter do Chão blends Amazonian ingredients with regional traditions.
Must-try dishes:
- Pirarucu (giant freshwater fish) grilled or in stew
- Tacacá – A soup with jambu leaves and shrimp
- Cupuaçu and açaí juices – Fresh and local
- Fried tambaqui ribs
Local restaurants:
- Sabor do Tapajós – Great riverfront dining
- Santo Antônio – Traditional Amazonian food
- Farol da Ilha – Popular for sunset cocktails
Cultural Events
- Sairé Festival (September) – A mix of Catholic and indigenous traditions, with music, dancing, and colorful boats
- Carnalter – A relaxed version of Carnival on the beach
- Local markets with handicrafts and Amazonian herbs
Travel Tips for Alter do Chão
- Bring cash – Many places don’t accept cards
- Use eco-friendly products – Protect the delicate river ecosystems
- Travel light – Roads can be bumpy and weather humid
- Learn a few words in Portuguese – English is not widely spoken
Why Alter do Chão Is a Hidden Gem in Brazil
Unlike crowded beach towns or busy Amazon cruises, Alter do Chão offers a tranquil, immersive experience where the forest meets the beach and the river feels like the sea.
Whether you’re swimming in a natural lagoon, watching pink river dolphins, or sipping juice from a riverside hammock, Alter do Chão is a reminder that paradise isn’t always coastal.
Come for the beaches. Stay for the energy. Leave with a deeper love for the Amazon.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.