Santarem Port Guide

A major highlight for visiting cruisers is witnessing the Meeting of the Waters, where the dark, clear waters of the Tapajós River meet the muddy Amazon River flowing side by side without mixing for miles.

Nature enthusiasts can embark on an excursion to Tapajós National Forest, located about an hour drive away, offering guided hikes through primary rainforest with ancient trees and exotic wildlife.

Another popular spot is Alter do Chão, often referred to as the Caribbean of the Amazon, famous for its brilliant white-sand river beaches and turquoise waters just 40 minutes from the port pier.

The village of Alter do Chão is the primary nearby destination, located approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) southwest of the port, or about a 40-minute drive.

Travelers seeking pristine nature can venture to the nearby Maica Lake, situated roughly 30 minutes away by boat, where rich birdlife, pink river dolphins, and piranha fishing opportunities abound.

The passenger pier in Santarém is located conveniently close to downtown, just a 10 to 15-minute walk or brief taxi ride to the main waterfront promenade.

While some smaller or mid-sized cruise vessels dock directly at the floating commercial pier, larger ships occasionally anchor in the river and transfer passengers ashore via tenders.

The immediate port area offers basic facilities, basic handicraft stalls, and local taxis, though extensive shopping and dining options are located slightly further into the city along the riverfront.

The official currency used in Santarém is the Brazilian Real (BRL).

While U.S. dollars may be accepted by some tour operators or craft vendors targeting tourists, local currency is generally required for smaller shops, market stalls, and taxis.

Credit and debit cards are accepted in major restaurants and established stores, but carrying local cash obtained from ATMs in downtown banks is recommended for local purchases.

Santarém is generally considered safer than larger Amazonian cities like Manaus or Belém, but standard safety precautions should still be observed.

Cruise guests should avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash while walking through public markets and busy downtown areas.

Exploring the main waterfront and city center independently during daylight hours is safe, though taking booked organized tours or official taxis is recommended for excursions into the rainforest or surrounding villages.

Santarém experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F) with high humidity.

The region has a distinct wet season from December through May and a dry season from June through November, though rain showers can happen at any time of year in the Amazon basin.

Cruise passengers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a rain jacket or poncho, sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat.

Taxis and local vans are readily available outside the cruise terminal area, providing affordable transport into the city center or to nearby destinations.

Many visitors choose organized excursions such as an Amazon River Boat Tour or a guided Alter do Chão Beach Excursion for seamless transportation and peace of mind.

While public buses operate throughout the city, they can be crowded and confusing for non-Portuguese speakers, making taxis or pre-arranged private transfers the preferred option.

Shopping in Santarém centers around traditional Amazonian handicrafts, indigenous art, wooden carvings, woven basketry, and local bio-jewelry made from native seeds and nuts.

The waterfront market and municipal craft stalls near the riverfront are excellent places to pick up local spices, Amazonian ceramics, and fresh Brazil nuts.

Bargaining is polite and acceptable at open-air market stalls, though fixed prices are standard in formal souvenir shops and boutiques, and duty-free options are minimal.