Things To Do
in Ourém

Ourém is a small inland city in Pará, Brazil, set along winding rivers and lush tropical landscapes. The town blends traditional riverine life with growing commerce, markets, and friendly, welcoming residents. Cobblestone streets, colorful churches, and riverside viewpoints offer a relaxed snapshot of Amazonian life.

Year-round warmth and distinct wet and dry seasons shape how visitors plan outdoor adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Ourém
morning
:

Arrive at Ourém International Airport and check into your charming hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, tasting regional specialties like 'pão de queijo' and fresh juices. Take some time to rest and freshen up after your journey.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic center of Ourém, visiting landmarks like the enchanting Ourém Castle and the beautiful Church of Santa Cruz. Stroll through the picturesque streets, enjoying the local shops and artisan crafts. Grab a light lunch at a traditional restaurant, sampling local flavors in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

evening
:

Dine at a rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city as the sun sets. Choose from a variety of traditional Brazilian dishes, paired with a local wine or caipirinha. End your day with a relaxed evening stroll, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Ourém at night.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Ourém Museum, where you can discover the rich cultural heritage and history of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits and local artifacts that narrate the story of Ourém and its people. Afterward, take a guided tour to a nearby artisanal workshop to witness traditional crafts being made.

afternoon
:

Savor lunch at a bistro that features farm-to-table options, showcasing local ingredients. Post-lunch, participate in a cooking class that teaches you how to prepare an authentic Brazilian dish, incorporating spices and techniques unique to the area. Engage with the friendly locals who share their culinary secrets.

evening
:

Enjoy a lively evening of folk music and dance at a local venue. Whether it's live music or a cultural performance, immerse yourself in the sounds and rhythms of Brazil. Wind down with cocktails at a nearby bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$20-40
🛏️One night in budget hotel$25-50
🚍Local transport (bus/taxi short ride)$3-8
Coffee and snack$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Affordability and warm hospitality
  • Rich riverine scenery and access to Amazonian landscapes
  • Limited tourist infrastructure compared to major cities
  • Humidity and heat 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 banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Ourém

Visit one of these nice places.

Riverside Promenade

Sunrise shots along the Ourém River with reed banks and gentle boats.

Igreja Matriz de Ourém

Colonial church with a colorful façade, ideal for exterior portraits.

Mercado Municipal de Ourém

Vibrant market scenes with colorful stalls and produce—great for candids.

Sunset on the Riverfront

Open promenade with silhouettes of boats and palm trees as the sun dips.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ourém

Pará's coastal and riverine flavors come together in Ourém, where manioc, fish, tropical fruits, and spice play central roles.

Ourém Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A hot tucupi-based soup with jambu and dried shrimp; best enjoyed at riverfront stalls.

Must-Try!

Pato no Tucupi

Duck stewed in tucupi sauce, served with jambu and farofa.

Caruru

Okra-based stew with dried shrimp, manioc flour, and spices.

Açaí na tigela

Icy açaí puree served in a bowl with toppings; widely available at markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Ourém

Outdoor stalls with fresh fish, manioc, fruits, and local snacks; try grilled fish by the river.

Riverside stalls

Temporary food carts along the water offering tacacá, manioc fries, and fresh juice.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ourém experiences a tropical climate with high humidity year-round. Expect hot days, warm nights, and distinct wet and dry seasons; the rainy season brings heavy downpours, while the dry season offers more predictable sunshine.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; closer friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek in informal settings.

Language

Polite phrases in Portuguese are appreciated; use senhor/senhora with elders.

Respect in religious sites

Dress modestly and speak softly in churches or temples.

Public behavior

Avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces; show patience and friendliness.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft can occur in crowded markets and on public transport. Keep valuables secure, use reputable transport, and avoid isolated areas at night. Be mindful near the river during high-water events and follow local advice during storms.

Tipping in Ourém

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service was not included. Small cafés and markets typically do not expect tips.

Payment Methods

Cash (BRL) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in larger establishments. Some street stalls prefer cash; mobile payments are growing in towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, wear light clothing, and take shade breaks.

Autumn

Continued warmth but with slightly milder evenings; a good time for outdoor activities with stable skies.

Winter

Cooler nights, comfortable temperatures, and drier conditions; ideal for river excursions.

Spring

Warm mornings with occasional rain; lush vegetation and blooming fruit trees make for colorful photography.

Nightlife Guide

Ourém at Night

The nightlife in Ourém is relaxed and community-focused, centered around riverfront bars and small music venues. Expect live forró, sertanejo, and occasional samba evenings on weekends, with casual, friendly crowds. Many spots offer outdoor seating with river views; late-night options are modest compared to bigger cities, but the atmosphere is warm and social.

Hiking in Ourém

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Mirante da Serra

Scenic ridge trail with overlooks over forests and rivers; moderate difficulty.

Trilha das Cachoeiras do Ourém

Waterfall-focused trail along forested terrain; bring water shoes.

Reserva Verde da Região

Gentle circuits through preserved rainforest with birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Ourém by plane.

Belém International Airport (BEL)

Major gateway to Pará; international flights and regional connections; about a several-hour drive/boat ride to Ourém depending on route.

Santarém Airport (STM)

Regional airport serving the Tapajós region; connects to major Brazilian hubs; useful for connecting to the interior.

Altamira Airport (ATM)

Smaller regional airport serving inland Pará; options for flights via Belém or Brasília; may require transfer.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is compact and walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. Sidewalks can be uneven in places, and heat can be a factor, so plan shade breaks and hydration. Some outskirts and rural areas require transportation to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban residents

Primarily residents of Ourém city with a mix of age groups.

Rural communities nearby

People living in surrounding villages who rely on river transport and agriculture.

Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous influences

Cultural influences reflected in food, music, and crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (futebol)

The most popular sport; local leagues and street games are common.

Boat racing and water sports

Activities on the river include rowing and canoeing.

Fishing

Both recreational and sport fishing in rivers and lakes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate in the town center, with limited congestion. Public buses and river transport are common, and taxis are readily available. Roads can become crowded during market days or festival events; always plan extra time for travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ourém.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options include mandioca, beans, rice, seasonal vegetables, and fruit; inform cooks and request oil-free dishes when needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available locally through clinics and a small hospital; for specialized or emergency care, travel to Belém or Santarém may be necessary. Bring travel insurance and keep prescriptions handy; pharmacies stock common medicines and may have limited English-speaking staff.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide