Things To Do
in São João do Araguaia
São João do Araguaia is a riverside municipality in Pará, Brazil, perched on the banks of the Araguaia River. It is a small, welcoming town known for its markets, riverfront scenery, and laid-back pace. The surrounding cerrado and forested areas offer nature escapes and rural culture just outside town.
The town serves as a practical base for exploring northern Pará and the Araguaia basin.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Brazilian pão de queijo and fresh fruit juices. After breakfast, take a stroll through the charming historic center of São João do Araguaia, admiring colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Stop by local artisan shops to browse handmade crafts that reflect the culture of the region.
In the afternoon, visit the Museu Municipal, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of São João do Araguaia through fascinating exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional dishes such as tacacá or peixe frito. Afterward, explore the nearby parks, where you can relax under the shade of trees and enjoy the sounds of nature.
As night falls, head to the lively local market where you can sample street food delicacies such as pastéis and acarajé. Engage with locals and enjoy live music performances that often take place in the square, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, soaking in the warm ambiance and mingling with fellow travelers.
Embark on an early morning guided tour into the nearby Amazon rainforest to observe the diverse wildlife that thrives in this unique ecosystem. Your knowledgeable guide will point out various species of birds, monkeys, and exotic plants as you trek through the lush greenery. The early morning light filtering through the treetops creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch in the heart of the rainforest, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Continue your wildlife adventure with a canoe trip along the river, where you might spot caimans and colorful fish swimming beneath the surface. The serene environment offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city, allowing you to connect with nature.
Return to São João do Araguaia in the evening and relax at your accommodation while enjoying a refreshing drink. For dinner, savor a traditional Amazonian meal featuring local ingredients like fresh fish and tropical fruits. As dusk settles, take a leisurely walk by the riverside, enjoying the sunset reflected on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.75-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or breakfast | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner at mid-range | $8-15 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich riverine culture and warm hospitality
- Abundant nature and easy access to outdoor activities
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Smaller selection of international cuisines
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu sou vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in São João do Araguaia
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the wide river, silhouettes of boats, and a quintessential riverside scene for wide-angle shots.
A charming central church with a colorful façade and colonial touches, ideal for architectural photography.
Vibrant activity, boats, and colorful stalls provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Food in São João do Araguaia
São João do Araguaia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot Amazonian soup featuring tucupi, jambu leaves, and dried shrimp. Usually served in a bowl with a side of manioc flour for dipping.
Must-Try!
Dishes featuring pirarucu (arowana fish) prepared grilled, fried, or stewed with local seasonings and tuber crops.
Duck cooked in tucupi sauce, a classic Pará specialty showcasing tangy tucupi and leafy greens.
A refreshing bowl of açaí pulp topped with granola or fruit, a common snack or snack-time treat in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh produce, fish, manioc, and regional snacks; great place to sample local ingredients.
Open-air stalls selling tropical fruits, tapioca, pão de queijo, fried snacks, and quick meals perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a warm nod; use polite phrases like 'bom dia/boa tarde' and address people with courtesy.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private spaces; be respectful in religious or cultural sites.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or markets; swimsuit is generally for the beach or pool, not daily town wear.
Safety
Tipping in São João do Araguaia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In sit-down restaurants, leave about 5-10% if service is not included; guide or driver tips of a few reais are common after a day tour.
Cash is widely used in markets and smaller eateries; many urban businesses accept cards. ATMs are available in town for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February are hot and very humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and carry a light rain layer.
March to May remains warm with gradually decreasing rainfall; river levels may fluctuate—great for outdoor activities with caution around slick surfaces after rain.
June to August is cooler at night but still warm during the day, with high humidity; rainfall is generally lower but possible.
September to November brings warming temperatures and renewed rain; ideal for river trips and nature walks with lush surroundings.
São João do Araguaia at Night
Hiking in São João do Araguaia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hillside trail offering river views and birdlife; moderate difficulty.
Waterfall hike with pools for a relaxing break and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach São João do Araguaia by plane.
Major gateway for the region; most travelers fly through Belém and then transfer overland to São João do Araguaia.
Regional hub in Tocantins; often used when connecting to Pará; overland transfer to the Araguaia area is common.
Smaller regional airport in Pará; access to interior Pará with longer road or river travel to reach São João do Araguaia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic in the region, reflecting a mix of Indigenous, European, and African ancestry.
Smaller groups with strong cultural traditions in surrounding areas.
Many residents are involved in agriculture and river-based livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and informal games are common in plazas and schools.
Sport fishing on the Araguaia River, with guided trips available for freshwater species.
Beach or riverbank volleyball played in public spaces and recreational areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São João do Araguaia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist at markets and in some restaurants; look for rice, beans, manioc-based dishes, salads, and grilled vegetables. When dining out, ask for tucupi-free preparations or simple vegetable sides.