Things To Do
in Coari
Coari is a riverfront town in Amazonas, Brazil, nestled along the mighty Amazon basin with dense rainforest surrounding it. It serves as a gateway for river travel, fishing, and ecotourism, attracting visitors to its markets and river life. The area is known for pirarucu fishing, igapó flooded forests, and a vibrant riverine culture shaped by local communities.
Travel here often involves boats or small planes and guided excursions to explore the surrounding biodiversity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Coari, where colonial architecture and vibrant street art coexist. Visit the local market to experience the morning hustle and bustle, sampling traditional Brazilian breakfast items like pão de queijo and fresh fruit juices. Don't miss the chance to chat with local artisans, who are more than happy to share their craft and stories.
After lunch at a cozy café, delve deeper into the rich history of Coari by visiting the Museu Municipal, where you can discover artifacts that tell the story of the Amazon region. Take a guided tour to learn about the indigenous cultures and the impact of the Amazon River on the city’s development. As the afternoon sun shines, relax at one of the nearby parks, soaking in the local atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional restaurant that serves regional dishes like tambaqui fish, enjoying the flavors of the Amazon. Engage with locals over dinner, sharing stories and laughter as the night deepens. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade, where the glowing lights reflect on the water, creating a magical ambiance.
Begin your adventure with an early breakfast at your hotel before setting off for a guided boat tour on the Amazon River. As you glide along the waterways, keep your eyes peeled for exotic wildlife such as pink dolphins and various bird species. The lush greenery surrounding you is a reminder of the rich biodiversity that thrives here.
After a thrilling morning on the river, enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the riverbanks, surrounded by the sounds of nature. In the afternoon, explore the smaller tributaries, where your guide will introduce you to the unique flora and fauna, explaining their significance to the local ecosystem. You might even have the opportunity to visit a nearby indigenous community and learn about their way of life.
Return to Coari as the day draws to a close, and unwind with a refreshing drink at a local bar. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories of your day on the river. As night falls, enjoy traditional music performances that showcase the vibrant culture of the Amazon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Local drink (coconut water, juice) | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transport/taxi within town | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-40 |
| 🎟️Attractions/activities | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and unique Amazon river experiences
- Affordability compared to other Amazon destinations
- Friendly locals and authentic riverine culture
- Wide variety of wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities
- Remote location with limited infrastructure in some areas
- Seasonal river levels can affect access to certain sites
- Healthcare options are basic; for complex care, Manaus may be needed
- Weather can be hot and humid with frequent rain
- "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 aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Eu não falo Português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Coari
Visit one of these nice places.
A bustling riverfront pier at sunrise or sunset, ideal for silhouettes of boats and fishermen.
Wide views over the Solimões with daily life along the shore—great for candid street photography.
Colorful market architecture and portraits of vendors with fresh produce and fish.
Horizon shots of the sun dipping behind the river with palm silhouettes.
Food in Coari
Coari Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot tucupi-based soup with jambu leaves, typically served in a small cup from street stalls.
Must-Try!
Pirarucu cooked in coconut milk, usually served with rice and farofa.
Duck slow-cooked in tucupi with manioc flour, a hearty Amazonian specialty.
Tucupi sauce paired with jambu plant; often enjoyed with manioc dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant riverside market where you can taste fresh fish, fruits, and regional snacks.
Casual stalls along the quay offering grilled peixe (fish), fried manioc, and fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and a handshake; show respect in conversations and avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces.
Dress modestly when away from tourist-focused areas; ask permission before photographing people or private spaces.
Be mindful of local river communities and environmental practices; support sustainable tours and avoid littering.
Safety
Tipping in Coari
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Consider 5–10% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips for guides and drivers are common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards and increasingly PIX for quick transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
High water levels flood many igapó areas, creating abundant boat-based photography and lush reflections; expect frequent rain showers and high humidity.
Lower river levels make some areas harder to access by boat but often offer better trails and clearer wildlife viewing; anticipate heat and reduced mosquito activity outside peak times.
Coari at Night
Hiking in Coari
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and riverside trail offering a glimpse of interior Amazon ecosystems; best with a local guide and in the dry season.
Guided walk through flooded forest areas (igapó) with opportunities to observe unique amphibians and birds during rising water.
Airports
How to reach Coari by plane.
Small regional airport serving Coari with flights to Manaus and other regional centers; schedules can be limited.
Major gateway to the Amazon region with broader domestic connections and onward travel to Coari by plane or overland routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically linked to the river and fishing, with distinct cultural practices and crafts.
Residents of Coari and nearby towns who work in markets, services, and the growing tourism sector.
Individuals drawn to the region for employment in fishing, oil, or service industries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across the region; local clubs and informal games are common.
A traditional and popular activity, with many residents and visitors trying river fishing for local species.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games often occur in late afternoons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coari.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose tubers, beans, rice, fruits, salads, and grilled vegetables. In some fish-focused dishes, ask for a plant-based preparation or substitutions.