Things To Do
in Altamira

Altamira is a vibrant city located in the northern region of Brazil, specifically in the state of Pará. It is situated along the banks of the Xingu River and serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and significant ecological importance.

Visitors to Altamira can experience a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for eco-tourism and cultural exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Altamira
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mercado Municipal, where you can enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast with fresh fruit and pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museu Histórico de Altamira to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a walk along the Xingu River.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurante Picanharia, famous for its grilled meats, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour to the nearby Parque Nacional da Amazônia for a morning of hiking and wildlife spotting.

afternoon
:

Return to Altamira and explore local artisan shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out at a local bar with live music, sampling the regional cachaça.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Ride (within the city)$5
🏨Night at a Mid-range Hotel$50
🚌Public Bus Fare$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Access to stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to major cities.
  • Limited infrastructure and amenities in some areas.
  • Language barrier if you don’t speak Portuguese.
  • Potential safety concerns in specific neighborhoods.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Altamira

Visit one of these nice places.

Xingu River

Capture stunning sunset views along the banks of this beautiful river.

Museu Histórico de Altamira

The museum's architecture and exhibits provide great backdrops for photography.

Parque Nacional da Amazônia

Nature lovers can photograph diverse wildlife and lush landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Altamira

Altamira offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its Amazonian heritage, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Altamira Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A traditional dish made from manioc root, jambu leaves, and shrimp, served hot.

Must-Try!

Pato no Tucupi

Duck cooked in a sauce made from tucupi, a yellow sauce extracted from wild manioc.

Açaí na Tigela

A popular Amazonian dish made from açaí berries, served in a bowl with granola and bananas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and street food vendors selling local delicacies.

Feira do Produtor

A weekly farmer's market featuring organic products and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Altamira experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a wet season from December to May and a dry season from June to November. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 89°F) throughout the year, with higher humidity during the wet season. Rainfall is abundant during this time, while the dry season offers more comfortable outdoor conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, with close friends often exchanging kisses on the cheek.

Respect for Nature

Show appreciation for the environment and avoid littering, especially in natural areas.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and respectfully, particularly when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Altamira is relatively safe for tourists, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables openly and be cautious when traveling at night. It’s also recommended to use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Altamira

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants; check if service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Wet Season (December to May)

Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity, leading to lush landscapes but challenging travel conditions.

Dry Season (June to November)

This season features lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Carnival Season (February or March)

Experience vibrant parades and cultural festivities with plenty of music and dance.

Harvest Season (August to October)

A great time to taste local fruits and participate in harvest festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Altamira at Night

Altamira offers a lively nightlife scene with various bars and clubs featuring live music, particularly samba and forró. Locals often gather in open-air venues to socialize and dance, providing a vibrant atmosphere. The nightlife tends to peak on weekends, drawing both residents and visitors.

Hiking in Altamira

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Rio Xingu

A scenic trail along the Xingu River, offering opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

Trilha do Parque Nacional da Amazônia

This trail provides a deep dive into the Amazon rainforest, showcasing its unique biodiversity.

Airports

How to reach Altamira by plane.

Altamira Airport (ATM)

Located about 5 km from the city center, Altamira Airport serves domestic flights and connects to major Brazilian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Altamira has a moderate level of walkability, particularly in its central areas where most shops and restaurants are located. However, some neighborhoods may have uneven sidewalks and limited pedestrian crossings, so caution is advised when walking. Utilizing taxis or rideshares is common for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to several indigenous groups, contributing to the cultural diversity and heritage of Altamira.

Urban Residents

The city has a growing urban population with a mix of local cultures and influences from other regions of Brazil.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport, with many local teams and community leagues.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball and indoor volleyball are commonly played, especially among youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Altamira is generally light, but congestion can occur during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but rideshare services are also popular. The city layout makes navigating by foot feasible for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Altamira.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; check with restaurants in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Altamira includes public hospitals and private clinics. The public health system offers basic services, but facilities may be limited, especially in emergencies. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and seek private healthcare for more serious medical needs.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide