Things To Do
in Macapá
Macapá is the capital of Amapá in northern Brazil, perched on the banks of the Amazon River near the equator. It blends riverfront life with Amazonian culture and a distinctive equatorial landmark, Marco Zero, that marks the line of 0 degrees latitude. The city is hot, humid, and verdant year-round, surrounded by rainforest and mangroves that shape its food, crafts, and daily rhythms.
Visitors can explore forts, markets, and river life while learning about Indigenous and Afro-Brazilian influences shaping the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the iconic Marco Zero monument, where the equator line crosses Macapá. Take time to explore the surrounding park and learn about the unique geographical significance of this location. Capture photos at the equator marker as the morning light beautifully illuminates the site.
Stroll along the nearby Fortaleza de São José de Macapá, a historic fort that offers panoramic views of the Amazon River. Delve into the history of Portuguese colonization and the fort’s role in regional defense. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the green spaces surrounding the fort, soaking in the riverside ambiance.
Head to the Beira Rio waterfront, enjoying the sunset over the Amazon River with local street food vendors offering traditional snacks. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals gather to relax and socialize. End the evening with a refreshing açaí bowl or freshly squeezed tropical juice from a riverside stall.
Start your day at Museu Sacaca, an ethnographic and natural history museum showcasing the cultural and ecological diversity of Amapá. Wander through exhibits featuring indigenous artifacts, regional flora, and fauna. Participate in interactive displays that highlight the customs and traditions of local communities.
Take a guided garden tour within the museum grounds to observe native plants and medicinal herbs used by indigenous peoples. Enjoy a light lunch at the museum café, sampling Amazonian flavors and ingredients. Continue exploring the outdoor trails that simulate the Amazon rainforest environment.
Return to the city center for dinner at a traditional Amazonian restaurant, savoring dishes like tambaqui fish or pirarucu. Immerse yourself in live regional music performances that often take place in local venues. Wind down with a peaceful walk along the city’s illuminated streets, reflecting on the day’s cultural insights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Short taxi ride within city | $3-7 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $25-50 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant riverfront culture and equator landmark
- Fresh Amazonian seafood and fruits with affordable prices
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Brazilian cities
- Heat and humidity can be intense for some travelers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- " Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o/a ______?" - Where is the ______?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu sou vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Macapá
Visit one of these nice places.
The equator marker where the line is celebrated; excellent for sunrise/sunset shots over the river and reflections on the water.
Historic fortress with ramparts, cannons, and museum exhibits; offers panoramic views of the city and river.
Colonial-era church with colorful facades; good for street photography around the plazas.
Wide riverfront promenade ideal for golden-hour photography and candid river life.
Food in Macapá
Macapá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot soup made with tucupi, jambu leaves, and dried shrimp; best tried at a local market stall or riverside cafe.
Must-Try!
Flavorful preparations of pirarucu, a large Amazon fish, often served with rice and manioc flour.
Cold açaí puree served with fruit and granola, a refreshing staple on hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh fish, tropical fruits, cassava snacks, and street-food bites; a great place to sample tacacá and pirarucu.
Casual stalls along the riverfront offering snacks, juices, and quick meals with river views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia/Boa tarde' and a handshake; use 'por favor' and 'obrigado(a)'. Wait your turn, and ask before taking photos of people.
Light, breathable clothing is typical in tropical climates; modest dress in religious buildings and formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Macapá
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is common if service is not included; in casual places you may round up. Taxi drivers appreciate small change; porters and tour guides may expect tips at the end of tours.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry tones with abundant sunshine; ideal for outdoor exploring and riverfront walks, but stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Dec–May brings heavy tropical rains and higher humidity; plan indoor activities or short outdoor bursts with rain gear; mosquitoes are more active.
Macapá at Night
Hiking in Macapá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short nature walks around the equator marker with river views and forest edges.
Forest hikes in nearby highlands offering true Amazonian scenery, birds, and panoramic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Macapá by plane.
Main gateway to Macapá, offering domestic and limited international connections; taxis and rideshare services are available from the terminal.
Regional hub for Pará; offers more international connections and can serve as a gateway for longer itineraries via air.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Amapá has indigenous groups and riverine communities living along the Amazon and its tributaries, preserving unique crafts and languages.
Cultural mix of Afro-Brazilian, Portuguese-speaking residents and migrants from other Brazilian regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with multiple local leagues and pickups.
Traditional Brazilian martial art/dance practiced in communities and schools.
River fishing is common along the Amazon; many locals practice for livelihoods and recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Macapá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for fresh salads, fruit bowls, feijão-based dishes, and rice with beans; ask for tacacá and pirarucu to be left out, and request vegetable substitutes when available. When in doubt, request plant-based options at larger restaurants.