Things To Do
in Barcelos
Barcelos is a riverside town in Amazonas along the Solimões River, where lush forest meets city life. Its markets bustle with fresh fish, and its culture blends Indigenous heritage with riverine traditions. The region is a gateway to Amazonian nature, offering boat trips, birdwatching, and igapó forest explorations.
Life here follows the river's rhythm, with fiery sunsets, friendly faces, and vibrant craft scenes along the waterfront.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Igreja de São Benedito, a beautiful church known for its stunning architecture and vibrant interiors. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic town center, soaking in the rich culture and local art that adorns the streets. Stop by a local café for a taste of traditional Brazilian breakfast items, like pão de queijo and fresh fruit.
In the afternoon, head to the bustling Avenida 7 de Setembro where you can shop for handmade crafts and local goods at various market stalls. Savor a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, where the menu features regional delicacies such as tambaqui fish. After lunch, take a boat trip along the Rio Negro, mingling with locals and enjoying the serene river views.
As night falls, make your way to the vibrant Praça da Matriz to experience local music and dance performances. Join in the festivities by sampling street food offerings while chatting with friendly residents. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk past colorful colonial buildings, appreciating the charm of Barcelos as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Begin your day early with a guided tour into the Amazon rainforest, where you’ll learn about its unique ecosystem and its importance to the world. The morning is ideal for birdwatching, so keep an eye out for rare species while strolling through the lush vegetation. A hearty breakfast packed with local fruits will give you the energy needed for an exciting trek.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a traditional Amazonian lunch prepared by local communities, featuring dishes that showcase local ingredients. Continue your adventure by canoeing through the waterways, watching for wildlife such as pink dolphins and alligators. Engage with indigenous communities, learning about their cultures and customs first-hand.
As the sun sets over the Amazon, return to your accommodations to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. Later, dine under the stars while listening to folklore stories shared by locals, creating a captivating atmosphere. This evening is perfect for bonding with fellow travelers around a campfire, sharing tales of your adventures in the rainforest.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨1-night stay in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local transportation (1-way) | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Amazonian culture and warm hospitality
- Access to authentic river-based adventures with fewer crowds
- Limited nightlife and infrastructure in some areas
- Seasonal humidity and mosquitoes can be challenging
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não falo português bem" - I don't speak Portuguese well
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu gostaria de um prato típico" - I would like a traditional dish
Places to Visit in Barcelos
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections and boats coming and going on the expansive river.
Vibrant stalls, colorful fish, and textures of produce—an excellent subject for street photography.
Silhouette of the bridge against a glowing sky and distant igapó forests.
Floating forest edges with birds and unique reflections on flooded trees.
A quiet spot to capture the river turning to copper as the sun fades.
Food in Barcelos
Barcelos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled arapaima with herb-infused sauce, served with rice, farinha, and plantains.
Must-Try!
Baked tambaqui, a mild Amazon fish, often served with farofa and bananas.
A hot, clear broth with jambu leaves and tucupi, typically served in small bowls from street stalls.
Frozen açaí blended with fruits, typically served with bananas and granola.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling fish market and produce lanes where you can sample fresh fish and regional fruits.
Riverside stalls offering snacks, juices, and light meals with a view of the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “Bom dia/Boa tarde” and a handshake or cheek kiss depending on familiarity.
Dress modestly for churches and formal settings; in casual settings, comfortable, breathable clothing is common.
Ask for permission before entering private fishing spots; respect community norms and local guides.
Safety
Tipping in Barcelos
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (about 5-10% in restaurants or rounding up the bill) is appreciated but not always expected in casual spots.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments. Some small vendors may prefer cash; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy daily rains and high river levels; boat trips are rewarding but trails can be slippery and some paths may flood.
Drier days allow easier hiking and clearer river views, though humidity remains high and mosquitoes can be abundant near water.
Barcelos at Night
Hiking in Barcelos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail along flooded forest edges offering a chance to see water birds and flooded trees.
Moderate hike along the river and forest paths with a guide.
Short climb to a vantage point for sunrise over the river.
Airports
How to reach Barcelos by plane.
Small regional airport serving Barcelos with domestic flights and charter services; best accessed via the river or a road connection from Manaus.
Major hub for the region offering domestic and international flights; connects Barcelos to Manaus and onward destinations; typical transfer point for trips to Barcelos.
Regional airport in the nearby interior Amazon region; used for access to remote lodges and communities and seasonal charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People living along the Solimões who rely on fishing and river trade.
Communities that preserve Amazonian traditions and crafts.
Barcelos-based residents with mixed rural-urban livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
King of sports across Brazil with informal games and local leagues in Barcelos.
A popular activity given the rivers and abundant freshwater fish.
Enjoy swimming in river bays and designated areas under guide supervision.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barcelos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Embrace hearty vegetarian options based on manioc, rice, beans, fruits, and vegetables; many dishes can be prepared without fish or meat—ask about pimenta and tucupi sauces.