Things To Do
in Amapá
Amapá is a remote northern Brazilian state carved from the Amazon rainforest and bordered by French Guiana to the north. Its capital, Macapá, sits at the mouth of the Amazon River, offering a unique blend of riverine culture and tropical landscapes. The region is known for vast mangrove ecosystems, indigenous communities, and rich seafood cuisine caught from the surrounding waters.
With a compact city core and expansive natural areas nearby, Amapá is ideal for travelers seeking authentic jungle-adjacent experiences with a slower pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in the capital city, Macapá, by visiting the Fortaleza de São José de Macapá, a historic 18th-century fortress. Explore the surrounding lush green park and enjoy breakfast at a local café, where you can taste regional delicacies. Take a stroll along the Equator Monument, situated at the Prime Meridian, where you can experience standing in two hemispheres at once.
Visit the lively Mercado Municipal, where the vibrant colors and sounds of local vendors will immerse you in Amapá's culture. Sample fresh tropical fruits and local dishes, and pick up souvenirs crafted by local artisans. Afterward, take a leisurely boat trip along the Amazon River, soaking in the unique flora and fauna of the surrounding rainforest.
Wrap up the day by dining at a popular local restaurant, savoring freshly caught fish dishes infused with regional spices. Join a guided night tour for a chance to see nocturnal wildlife and listen to the soothing sounds of the rainforest. End your day at a local bar with live Brazilian music, experiencing the dynamic nightlife of Macapá.
Travel to the Tumucumaque Mountains National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in Brazil, where your immersion in nature begins. Upon arrival, take a guided trek to the park's breathtaking waterfalls, surrounded by lush tropical foliage. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the natural beauty, allowing the serene surroundings to refresh your spirit.
Continue exploring with a hike through the diverse ecosystems, keeping an eye out for endemic wildlife such as the giant river otter and various bird species. Have a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, taking time to appreciate the stunning vistas of the mountains. Late afternoon brings opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear natural pools, an invigoration after your hike.
Set up camp under a blanket of stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Share stories around the campfire while discussing the day’s adventures and local legends. Savor a hearty dinner prepared by your guide, including local ingredients that highlight the flavors of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night (budget to mid-range) | $20-60 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (1-3 miles) | $3-8 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and unique Amazonian culture
- Compact city with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Limited public transport outside the city center
- Seasonal flooding can affect trails and some roads
- Remote areas may have limited English speakers
- "Oi" - Hi/Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Não entendo" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Amapá
Visit one of these nice places.
Equator marker on the Macapá waterfront with a reflective pool and surrounding plaza, ideal for sunrise and architectural photos.
Historic fortress walls and bastions overlooking the river for dramatic sunset shots.
Colorful indigenous crafts and open spaces that provide vibrant backdrops for portraits.
Where river systems converge, offering wide horizons and striking light contrasts at dawn or dusk.
Food in Amapá
Amapá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot Amazonian soup made with tucupi, dried shrimp, and jambu leaves; commonly served in small bowls from street stalls.
Must-Try!
Creamy pirarucu fish prepared with herbs and served with rice and farofa.
A hearty fish stew featuring local river fish, tomatoes, peppers, and cassava.
Frozen açaí puree served in a bowl with banana and granola for a refreshing treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh fish, fruits, cassava, and street snacks.
Waterfront stalls and small eateries selling tapioca, grilled fish, and local sweets along the riverfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite handshake and small talk; using Portuguese helps establish rapport.
Ask for consent before photographing people, especially in Indigenous communities or private spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Amapá
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included; you may round up the bill or leave a small tip in casual eateries.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in Macapá; cash is useful in markets; Pix QR payments are common for quick transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lower rainfall, more comfortable humidity, and better conditions for outdoor exploration and street photography.
High rainfall and humidity, lush green landscapes, potential trail muddying; bring rain gear and waterproof bags.
Amapá at Night
Hiking in Amapá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal rainforest trails near the Oiapoque region with wildlife and beaches.
Forest and palm swamp trails ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
Forest hikes with viewpoints over rivers and valley landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Amapá by plane.
Main gateway to Amapá, located near the city with connections to Brazilian hubs and some international routes.
Regional airport serving the northern border region and Cabo Orange National Park, enabling access to remote areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Wajãpi and other groups preserve traditional practices in forested and coastal areas.
People living along rivers with fishing and crafts as central aspects of daily life.
A growing mix of Afro-Brazilian, Indigenous, and mestizo populations in Macapá.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the state, with informal games common in parks and beaches.
Rivers and estuaries host traditional canoe races and water sports.
Reserves and forested areas encourage guided wildlife walks and photography.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amapá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Local options can be plant-based with manioc, beans, rice, plantains, and palm hearts; request substitutions to avoid fish stock and meat broths.
Favor fresh fruits, vegetables, manioc flour, and grains; communicate clearly about no animal products and no fish stock in soups.