Things To Do
in Nova Ipixuna

Nova Ipixuna is a small Amazonian municipality in Pará, Brazil, set among dense rainforest and winding rivers. The town serves as a gateway to intimate jungle experiences, river life, and a developing market scene filled with friendly locals. Daily life centers on the river, with boat trips, markets, and rustic eateries shaping the rhythm of the town.

Visitors should expect heat, humidity, and vibrant wildlife, with a relaxed pace that invites easy exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and First Impressions
morning
:

Arrive in Nova Ipixuna and check into your local pousada. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant marketplace to absorb the sights, sounds, and the scent of local cuisine. Enjoy your first taste of Brazilian coffee while mingling with friendly locals.

afternoon
:

Explore the rich history of the region by visiting nearby cultural sites, including the Museu Municipal. Interact with the artists and artisans as they showcase traditional crafts unique to Nova Ipixuna. Capture the colorful murals that depict life in this Amazonian town.

evening
:

Savor a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try delicacies such as tacacá or açaí. Engage in conversations with locals and perhaps even catch an impromptu live music performance. As night falls, enjoy the serene ambiance of the Amazon rainforest under a canopy of stars.

day 2
Exploring Natural Wonders
morning
:

Set out early for a guided boat tour along the Amazon River, where you'll witness mesmerizing wildlife and lush landscapes. The mist rising from the water creates an enchanting atmosphere as you drift through small tributaries. Keep your camera handy for the abundant birdlife and elusive river dolphins.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch on a secluded riverbank, enjoying freshly caught fish and tropical fruit. In the afternoon, venture deeper into the jungle, guided by a knowledgeable local who will point out medicinal plants and unique flora. The sights and sounds of the rainforest will leave you in awe.

evening
:

Return to Nova Ipixuna and treat yourself to a relaxing evening at your pousada. Share stories with other travelers about your day's adventures over a casual dinner. Take a serene evening walk to enjoy the cool night air and the melodic sounds of nature.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
🥤Soft drink / bottled water$1-2
🚖One-way local transport$0.75-2.50
🏨Budget hotel night$25-50
📶Monthly internet access$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich river life and easy access to rainforest trails
  • Warm, welcoming communities and vibrant street markets
  • Limited infrastructure in remote areas; some services can be basic
  • Weather can be hot and humid with sudden rain showers
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Não falo Português" - I don’t speak Portuguese
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "Banheiro" - Bathroom

Places to Visit in Nova Ipixuna

Visit one of these nice places.

Riverside Sunrise/Main Waterfront

Golden light over the calm river with boats and silhouettes of palm trees makes for atmospheric early-morning shots.

Mercado Municipal Interior

Colorful stalls, produce, and textures offer vibrant street photography opportunities centered on daily life.

Praça Central

A lively public space with locals, markets, and street scenes—great for candid portraits and architectural shots.

Forest Edge Trails

Edges of the rainforest provide opportunities for wildlife and plant macro photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nova Ipixuna

Amazonian flavors define the local cuisine: fish from the rivers, manioc-based dishes, tucupi sauces, tropical fruits, and hearty stews. Expect bold, comforting tastes that emphasize fresh ingredients and simple preparation, often enjoyed in casual settings along the river and in markets.

Nova Ipixuna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A hot tucupi-based soup with dried shrimp and jambu, traditionally served in a cup and enjoyed on the go at markets and street stalls.

Must-Try!

Maniçoba

A slow-cooked stew made from cassava leaves and assorted meats, typically served with rice and farinha.

Pirarucu de Casaca

Layered dried fish with vegetables and cassava, a hearty Amazonian specialty popular in riverside eateries.

Pato no Tucupi

Duck cooked in tucupi sauce, often accompanied by jambu and rice; rich and flavorful.

Açaí na Tigela

Frozen açaí purée served in a bowl with toppings like fruits, granola, and sometimes tapioca pearls or molho de cupuaçu.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

The town market where locals shop for produce, fish, and regional snacks; a great place to sample tacacá and fresh fruit.

Riverfront Street Stalls

Popular spots along the waterfront offering grilled fish, tapioca, açaí bowls, and other quick meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is tropical rainforest: hot and humid year-round with pronounced wet and dry periods. Temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 24-34°C), with high humidity. Rain can occur suddenly, even outside the formal rainy season, so carry a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Greet with a friendly “Olá” or “Bom dia.” A firm handshake is typical in formal introductions. Address elders as senhor(a) and use polite language in unfamiliar situations.

Photography Consent

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in remote communities or at family gatherings.

Dress and Modesty

Dress modestly in religious or community spaces; lightweight, breathable clothing is practical in the heat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of common travel safety considerations in smaller towns: watch your belongings in crowded markets, use reputable transport at night, and protect yourself from mosquitoes with repellents and appropriate clothing. River travel should be done with local guides, and never swim alone in unfamiliar waters. Keep emergency numbers handy and have a communication plan with your accommodations.

Tipping in Nova Ipixuna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip for good service is common. For taxi rides or casual street vendors, rounding up is customary.

Payment Methods

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely accepted in town. Card payments are becoming more common at larger establishments, but many small vendors and markets still prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season

Typically December through May brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity. Trails can be slippery; carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bags for gear. Rivers may swell, offering dramatic water levels but more challenging photography conditions.

Dry Season

June through November tends to be drier with clearer skies and less mud, making day trips easier. Expect intense afternoons; bring sun protection and ample water, as heat and humidity persist.

Nightlife Guide

Nova Ipixuna at Night

Nova Ipixuna’s nightlife centers on informal gatherings, small cafés, and riverside eateries. Evenings are often quiet but friendly, with live music or guitar performances at local venues. Expect a relaxed pace, with people enjoying conversations, local snacks, and açaí bowls under warm outdoor lighting.

Hiking in Nova Ipixuna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forest Edge Trails

Short, guided trails along the rainforest edge offering birdwatching and canopy views, suitable for a half-day outing.

Riverside Walks

Easy `/easy/gentle` trails along the riverbank with opportunities to observe aquatic life and local flora.

Airports

How to reach Nova Ipixuna by plane.

Belém International Airport (BEL)

Major gateway for the region; provides connections to national and international destinations. From Belém, you may take a domestic flight or land transport to Nova Ipixuna.

Altamira Airport (ATM)

Regional airport serving Pará with onward connections to other Amazonian towns and larger hubs.

Parauapebas Airport (Unknown Code)

Smaller regional airport serving nearby communities; useful for accessing the interior Amazon region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nova Ipixuna is walkable in its town center, with markets, shops, and riverside paths easily explored on foot. For longer trips or excursions to forest edges, local transport or boat transfers are common and practical due to riverine geography and limited roadway networks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents of Pará and surrounding Amazonas-region communities

A mix of urban residents, rural communities, and Indigenous groups residing near the river and forest edges. Portuguese is the primary language, with local dialects and community languages present in some areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol

Soccer is by far the most popular sport, played informally in streets and organized leagues in town.

Fishing

River fishing is both a pastime and a livelihood for many locals; guided trips are common for visitors.

Canoeing and Canoe Polo

Water sports on the river are popular, especially during the dry season when waters are calmer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the town center with limited formal public transit. Roads can be rough or unpaved in some areas, particularly outside town. River travel remains a vital and frequent mode of transport, with boats serving as practical links to nearby communities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Ipixuna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in markets and some eateries. Look for vegetarian stews, fresh fruits, salads, and roasted cassava. When ordering, ask for 'sem carne' (without meat) and request oil or butter-free preparations if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available via local clinics and small hospitals, with more specialized care found in larger centers like Belém. Bring any necessary medications, and consider travel health insurance that covers remote areas. In emergencies, be prepared to transfer to a larger city by road or air transport if required.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide