Things To Do
in Curralinho

Curralinho is a small river town in Pará, Brazil, perched along tidal rivers and surrounded by mangrove forests. Life here centers on fishing, farming, and river transport, with a warm, tight-knit community and bustling waterfront markets. The town serves as a gateway to the Marajó region, offering rustic lodgings, simple hospitality, and easy access to Amazonian ecosystems.

Visitors should expect a laid-back pace, vibrant local culture, and landscapes shaped by water and seasonal tides.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Curralinho's historic center, soaking in the local architecture and vibrant colors. Visit the local artisan shops where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. Don’t forget to stop by a traditional bakery to taste a fresh pão de queijo with your morning coffee.

afternoon
:

After enjoying a leisurely lunch at a cozy local restaurant, continue your exploration by visiting the Museu de Arte e Cultura, which showcases the rich heritage of the region. Take your time to appreciate the local artworks and learn about the history of Curralinho through engaging exhibits. As the afternoon sun shines, relax in the central plaza, where you can people-watch and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, find a local eatery that offers fresh seafood dishes, a staple in this coastal town. Savor a delicious dinner while listening to the soothing sounds of local music that fills the air. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Head to Praia do Curralinho early in the morning to enjoy the soft sands and gentle waves. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene coastline, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The warm sun and refreshing sea breeze create the perfect atmosphere for a morning of adventure on the water.

afternoon
:

After a morning of water sports, take a break for lunch at a beachside restaurant that specializes in local delicacies. Post-lunch, spend the afternoon sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters, soaking in the tropical vibes. Consider joining a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life just off the shore.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather around a beach bonfire with locals and other travelers, sharing stories and enjoying the warmth of the fire. Dive into a feast of grilled fish and fresh tropical fruits prepared right on the beach. The night ends with laughter and dancing under the stars, creating unforgettable memories.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
💧Bottle of water (0.5L)$0.5-1
🏨One-night budget hotel$25-50
🚖Short taxi ride$3-8
🍝Dinner for two$15-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic riverine culture and warm hospitality
  • Affordable and laid-back experience
  • Rich biodiversity and easy access to Marajó landscapes
  • Good opportunities for photography and nature encounters
  • Limited infrastructure in some areas
  • Heat and humidity can be intense
  • Fewer high-end dining and nightlife options
  • Seasonal flooding can affect travel plans
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica..." - Where is...
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "Eu não falo português bem." - I don't speak Portuguese well.
  • "Você aceita Pix?" - Do you accept Pix?
  • "Sou vegetariano(a)" - I am vegetarian

Places to Visit in Curralinho

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça da Independência (City Square)

Central square with colonial-adjacent architecture, daily activity, and a good spot to capture local life and morning light.

Orla of Curralinho (Riverside Promenade)

Wide river views, colorful boats, and golden hour reflections—ideal for sunset photography over calm waters.

Mangrove Boardwalk

Wooden boardwalk through mangroves offering wildlife sightings and close-up shots of roots, crabs, and birds.

Local Church and Timber Architecture

Historic wooden religious buildings with intricate craftsmanship, providing a contrast to the water-filled landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Curralinho

Curralinho’s cuisine blends river fish, manioc, tucupi, and tropical fruits. Expect fresh seafood, simple staples, and plenty of cassava-based snacks that reflect Pará’s riverine traditions.

Curralinho Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A steaming tucupi broth with jambú leaves and dried shrimp, traditionally enjoyed from street stalls along the waterfront.

Must-Try!

Pato no tucupi

Duck cooked in tucupi sauce, typically served with rice and jambu leaves for a peppery, slightly numbing bite.

Pirarucu frito com farinha

Fried pirarucu fish served with farinha de mandioca and peppers; a hearty riverine staple.

Açaí na tigela

Frozen açaí purée served in a bowl with banana or granola—perfect for cooling down in the heat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Curralinho

Vibrant riverside market where you can sample fresh fish, manioc flour, cassava chips, tropical fruits, and local snacks.

Riverfront street stalls

Casual stalls offering tacacá, fried fish, cassava treats, and other quick bites right by the water.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical rainforest climate with hot temperatures year-round and high humidity. Rainfall is common, especially during the rainy season, and river levels fluctuate with the seasons. Expect sunny mornings, with frequent afternoon showers, and nights that remain warm.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde' and respond politely; use formal address in unfamiliar situations.

Photography and privacy

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or family settings.

Riverine etiquette

Respect local customs when visiting villages; modest clothing is appreciated near religious sites and homes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay mindful of petty theft in crowded markets and waterfront areas. Use bottled or treated water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect against pests. For longer trips, share itineraries with someone, travel during daylight, and use reputable guides for river excursions.

Tipping in Curralinho

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for guided tours, typically around 5-10% if service isn’t included.

Payment Methods

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely accepted in markets; many places also accept debit/credit cards and Pix for quick transfers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with occasional heavy afternoon showers. River levels are variable, so plan flexible outdoor activities and carry rain gear.

Autumn

Part of the rainy season with more frequent rains and muddy paths. Mosquito activity increases; bring repellent and light, long clothing.

Winter

Drier and slightly cooler days with comfortable humidity. Still hot at midday; early mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor exploring.

Spring

Warm and humid with abundant wildlife activity. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding as migratory species pass through.

Nightlife Guide

Curralinho at Night

Curralinho’s nightlife centers on waterfront bars and small venues with live music featuring forró, MPB, and local karaoke. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, friendly crowds, and evenings that begin late and end early by larger-city standards. If you enjoy intimate performances and starlit riverside views, it’s a charming contrast to urban nightlife.

Hiking in Curralinho

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mangrove shoreline trail

Gentle hike along mangrove edges with opportunities to observe wildlife and coastal ecosystems.

Riverside forest edge trail

Short loop near the river focusing on local flora and occasional wildlife sightings.

Airports

How to reach Curralinho by plane.

Belém International Airport (BEL)

Major gateway to northern Pará; frequent connections to major Brazilian cities; from Belém you typically reach Curralinho by river or regional routing.

Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (STM) in Santarém

Regional airport serving Santarém; farther from Curralinho but useful for multi-city itineraries across the region.

Altamira Airport (ATM)

Gateway to the Amazon interior; part of broader itineraries to Pará; not the closest option but may be used in longer trips.

Breves Regional Airport (BRB)

Closest access point to the Marajó region; useful for river routes toward Curralinho when flight connections are available.

Getting Around

Walkability

Curralinho's town center is compact and walkable, with markets and the riverfront within easy reach. Some streets are unpaved or have limited sidewalks, so expect uneven surfaces and walkable distances primarily in town; longer trips often rely on boats or motorized transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Riverine communities

Families whose livelihoods depend on fishing, farming, and river transport.

Indigenous communities

Communities with distinct cultural practices and crafts contributing to regional traditions.

Fishermen and farmers

Small-scale producers forming the economic backbone of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The dominant sport; local clubs and informal games are common on weekends.

Fishing

River and boat-based fishing activities are both a livelihood and a sport for locals and visitors.

Capoeira

Traditional Brazilian martial art/dance occasionally performed at community events.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads around Curralinho range from paved to unpaved; water transport is often faster and more reliable for regional travel. Public transportation is limited; taxis, motos, and boat services are common, with schedules influenced by tides and river conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Curralinho.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes center on fish; vegetarians can enjoy tapioca, açaí bowls, rice and beans, and fresh vegetables. Ask for dishes without peixe stock and confirm ingredients when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available at local clinics in Curralinho. For serious issues or specialized care, travel to Belém or Breves is common. The public health system (SUS) serves residents, with private clinics available in larger towns nearby.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide