Things To Do
in Anajás

Anajás is a small Pará municipality tucked along the riverine shores of the Tocantins and surrounded by lush Amazonian vegetation. The town thrives on fishing, river trade, and a growing eco-tourism scene that invites visitors to explore quiet mangrove channels and nearby beaches. Life here moves with the tides and the rhythms of the forest, offering an authentic glimpse of life on Brazil's northern frontier.

With friendly residents, colorful boats, and spectacular sunsets, Anajás is a nature-forward gateway to the Amazonian coast.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Anajás
morning
:

Arrive at the small airport in Anajás and feel the warm breeze carrying hints of the Pará River. Check into a cozy pousada by the waterfront and admire the vibrant wooden houses lining the canals. Wander to the local fish market where vendors offer fresh river prawns and lively conversation.

afternoon
:

Embark on a guided stroll through the village center to learn about Anajás’s marajoara culture and history. Savor a traditional bowl of tacacá in a riverside café, letting the tangy tucupi and numbing jambu awaken your senses. Enjoy a leisurely dip in the shallow river waters while watching children play at the docks.

evening
:

Set off on a serene sunset boat ride along winding channels, spotting herons and kingfishers as the sky turns amber. Dine on grilled pescado and cassava farofa at an open-air restaurant, accompanied by local stories and live flute melodies. End your night with a moonlit walk along sandy lanes, breathing in the tropical calm.

day 2
Mangrove Kayaking
morning
:

Paddle through dense mangrove forests at dawn, observing how roots weave into the water like artful sculptures. Listen to the chorus of cicadas and spot crabs scuttling across submerged branches. As the sun rises, inhale the crisp scent of freshwater mingled with salt.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a riverside picnic of freshly caught fish wraps and exotic fruits under the shade of palm trees. Continue kayaking deeper into hidden channels, guided by a local naturalist pointing out unique bird species like the agami heron. Marvel at the dappled light filtering through the mangrove canopy overhead.

evening
:

Return to shore for a brief rest before gathering at a community hall for a folklore storytelling session. Share a dinner of vatapá and caruru, rich in coconut milk and palm oil, while dancers weave ancient tales through movement. Drift off back at your pousada to the lullaby of gently lapping waters.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee or tea$1-2
🏨Budget hotel per night$25-50
🚕Taxi/start ride$1-3
🧺Local crafts item$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Autentic riverine culture and nature
  • Affordable travel costs and friendly people
  • Limited infrastructure and connectivity
  • Remote location may require long travel times
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Eu sou vegetariano(a)" - I am vegetarian
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Aceitam cartão de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?

Places to Visit in Anajás

Visit one of these nice places.

Docks at Sunset

Colorful boats, golden light on the river, and silhouettes of palm trees as the sun sinks over the water.

Mangrove Boardwalk

A safe wooden walkway through the mangroves offering close-up shots of crabs, birds, and reflections in tidal pools.

Tocantins River Lookout

Wide river vistas with distant boats and fishermen at dawn or dusk.

Colorful Riverside Homes

A row of pastel houses along the quay with local life happening right in frame.

Culinary Guide

Food in Anajás

Anajás serves a cuisine rooted in river fish, manioc, tropical fruits, and simple yet flavorful preparations. Dishes are often shared communally, reflecting a strong coastal Amazonian tradition. Expect a mix of street foods, casual eateries, and riverside restaurants powered by daily catch and fresh produce.

Anajás Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A hot tucupi-based soup with jambu leaves and dried shrimp, typically enjoyed from street stalls or market eateries.

Must-Try!

Pirarucu na Brasa

Grilled pirarucu fillet served with rice, farofa, and regional vegetables; a staple for fish lovers.

Moqueca de Peixe da Amazônia

Fish stew cooked with onions, peppers, coconut milk, and regional herbs, offering a creamy, fragrant flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Anajás

Waterfront market selling fresh river fish, cassava, and tropical fruits; ideal for tasting grilled fish on site.

Feiras de Rua

Evening street stalls along the riverfront offering tacacá, tapioca, and fruit shakes.

Climate Guide

Weather

A tropical rainforest climate with hot, humid conditions year-round. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F) with a pronounced rainy season and a drier season, heavy humidity, and frequent showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or cheek kiss is common among friends; address people politely with 'senhor' or 'senhora' in formal settings.

Photography

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities.

Environmental Respect

Do not disturb wildlife or fragile habitats; leave no trash and respect private property.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded areas; keep valuables secured; use licensed guides for river trips; avoid swimming in unfamiliar or fast-moving waters; protect yourself from mosquitoes with repellent and nets at night; monitor weather and river conditions during the rainy season and floods.

Tipping in Anajás

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is good; check if a service charge is included.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

December to February is hot and very humid with frequent afternoon showers. Start early for outdoor activities, and plan river trips when heat is highest.

Autumn

March to May brings steady humidity and rain; river levels can rise, offering lush scenery but occasionally flooded paths.

Winter

June to August is a drier period with milder humidity and pleasant temperatures, great for walking and outdoor exploration.

Spring

September to November warms up again with rising humidity; good for birdwatching and fishing as wildlife is active.

Nightlife Guide

Anajás at Night

In Anajás the nightlife is relaxed and river-centered, with small bars along the waterfront offering cold drinks and live local music and drum rhythms. Expect casual gatherings, occasional boat parties, and social evenings that celebrate river life more than clubbing.

Hiking in Anajás

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mangrove River Trail

A coastal mangrove trail with opportunities to spot crabs, birds, and mangrove flora.

Igapó Flooded Forest Walk

A seasonal hike through flooded forest areas, best during the dry season when paths are more accessible.

Canopy Viewpoint Path

An elevated trail offering panoramic river views and wildlife opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Anajás by plane.

Belém/Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL)

Main gateway to the region; long-distance flights connect to major Brazilian cities.

Santarém Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM)

Regional hub with connections to Belem and other Amazonian towns.

Marabá Regional Airport (MAB)

Another regional option with some domestic routes; farther from Anajás but accessible by road or boat.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most attractions and markets within a short stroll. Outside the center, transport by boat or car is common to reach mangroves, beaches, or rural villages; sidewalks can be uneven and some areas may be flooded during the rainy season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local riverine communities

Residents of Anajás and nearby villages who rely on fishing, agriculture, and small trades.

Brazilian families from Pará

A mix of urban-to-rural families forming the town’s workforce and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, played in local fields and bars on weekends.

Fishing

A common pastime and livelihood, with local guides offering river and lagoon trips.

Boat Racing

Community events occasionally feature traditional boat races along the river.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads in the area are a mix of paved and dirt paths; traffic is usually light except near markets and events. River transport is essential for reaching nearby communities and attractions; public transit is limited, so tours or boats are common for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Anajás.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most dishes are fish-based, but you can find vegetarian options: beans, rice, farofa, cooked vegetables, and salads. Ask for sem peixe.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in town, with more comprehensive services in Belém or Santarém. Public health clinics (SUS) provide primary care; private clinics offer more comprehensive care and English-speaking staff may be limited. For serious conditions, transfer to a larger city is common.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide