Things To Do
in São Félix do Araguaia
São Félix do Araguaia is a small river town in Pará, Brazil, perched on the banks of the Araguaia River. It sits amid a Cerrado riverine landscape and serves as a gateway to wildlife viewing and rural adventures. Daily life revolves around fishing, markets, and the warm hospitality of local families.
Expect hot days, lush vegetation, and a relaxed pace that invites slow exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a guided boat tour along the Araguaia River, soaking in the breathtaking scenery and observing local wildlife such as capybaras and a variety of bird species. After a refreshing breakfast at a riverside café, spend time learning about the river's ecological significance from your knowledgeable guide. Capture stunning photos of the lush landscapes as you glide through tranquil waters.
After lunch, embark on a fishing excursion where you can try your hand at catching piranhas or other local fish. With the guidance of a local fisherman, experience traditional fishing techniques while enjoying the serene environment. Relax on the shore with a picnic, savoring the flavors of regional cuisine as you watch the sun's reflection on the water.
Return to São Félix do Araguaia for a delightful dinner featuring fresh fish from the river, expertly prepared by a local chef. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the evening breeze and the vibrant sounds of nature. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar where you can sample traditional Brazilian drinks and mingle with friendly locals.
Begin your day by visiting a nearby indigenous community, where you can participate in traditional crafts and learn about their rich cultural heritage. Engage with artisans as they demonstrate their skills in weaving and pottery, gaining insight into their way of life. Enjoy a traditional breakfast served by the community, featuring local fruits and dishes.
After a morning of cultural exchange, head back to São Félix do Araguaia to explore its vibrant street markets. Browse through stalls filled with handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local delicacies, while interacting with friendly vendors. Take a moment to sit at a local café and enjoy a cup of Brazilian coffee, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in a cultural performance showcasing regional music and dance. Enjoy the rhythms of traditional Brazilian beats, and if you're feeling adventurous, join in and dance with the locals. Savor a dinner of regional specialties, such as a hearty feijoada, at a popular restaurant known for its authentic flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (within town) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or juice at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich river scenery and wildlife
- Warm hospitality and affordability
- Easy access to countryside and river trips
- Relaxed pace and safety compared to big cities
- Limited infrastructure and fewer international flight options
- Language barriers for non-Portuguese speakers
- Smaller range of dining and nightlife options
- "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 São Félix do Araguaia
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic bridge with river views, especially striking at sunset and during gold-hour light.
Colorful stalls and daily life provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Historic church square with colonial architecture and locals going about daily routines.
Calm water reflections and silhouettes of boats create atmospheric sunset scenes.
Food in São Félix do Araguaia
São Félix do Araguaia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh river fish prepared grilled or stewed in a light sauce, served with pirão (starch paste made from cassava flour) and rice.
Must-Try!
A Pará-tinged soup of tucupi (yellow manioc broth) and dried shrimp, served hot in a cup with jambú leaves; a popular riverside snack.
Light fish soup flavored with herbs and cassava starch; common at riverside eateries.
A flavorful fish stew with regional herbs and coconut milk variations; pairs with rice and farofa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh fish, cassava, fruits, and regional spices; best visited in the morning.
Riverside stalls serving grilled fish, tacacá, açaí bowls, and cold drinks with a view of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bom dia/b boa tarde and offer a handshake; address elders with courtesy and avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces.
Ask before taking photos of people or private spaces; dress modestly in religious sites; be mindful in rural communities.
Be respectful around private lands and riverbank communities; seek permission before entering land or participating in traditional activities.
Safety
Tipping in São Félix do Araguaia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; 5-10% at restaurants if service is good; some places add a service fee.
Cash in BRL is widely accepted; many places also accept credit/debit cards; mobile payments like Pix are popular for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with tropical afternoon showers; carry sun protection and a light rain layer; mosquitoes are common near water.
Very hot and dry with dusty conditions; best for outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains and higher river levels; some trails may be muddy or flooded; pack waterproof gear and plan for flexible outdoor plans.
São Félix do Araguaia at Night
Hiking in São Félix do Araguaia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short trail to a river overlook with sunset views over the Araguaia.
Gentle open- savanna trails with opportunities to spot wildlife and expansive skies.
Airports
How to reach São Félix do Araguaia by plane.
Small regional airport offering domestic flights; travelers typically connect via larger hubs in Belém or Palmas.
Major gateway for Tocantins; good connections to other Brazilian cities and serves as the regional access point for the Araguaia area.
Large hub with multiple daily flights to major Brazilian cities; convenient for longer trips to the Pará region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Communities living along the Araguaia River with distinct cultural practices and livelihoods tied to the water.
Families and workers involved in cattle ranching and farming lands surrounding the city.
People who operate markets, transport services, and small businesses in town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in town; informal games and local leagues are common on weekends.
A popular activity given the Araguaia River; many locals fish for both sustenance and sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Félix do Araguaia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice, beans, manioc, plantains, and fresh vegetables; request salads or veggie sides; avoid tacacá if shrimp stock is used; ask for oil or butter instead of animal fats.