Things To Do
in Tucuruí

Tucuruí is a vibrant city located in the state of Pará, Brazil, known for its rich culture and stunning natural landscapes. It sits on the banks of the Tocantins River and is close to the Tucuruí Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world. The city serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest, offering visitors a unique blend of urban life and lush wilderness.

With its warm climate and welcoming community, Tucuruí is an ideal spot for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Tucuruí
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tucuruí Municipal Market, where you can enjoy a traditional breakfast of pão de queijo and coffee.

afternoon
:

Explore the Tucuruí Dam and take a guided tour to learn about its significance and enjoy spectacular views of the Tocantins River.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurante Aconchego, known for its delicious local cuisine, and enjoy some live music in the area.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning hike at the nearby Serra do Pacaás Novos, appreciating the stunning views and local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art galleries and cultural centers to get a taste of the vibrant local art scene.

evening
:

Experience Tucuruí's nightlife by visiting a local bar, enjoying traditional drinks and engaging with the friendly locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3
🏨Hotel (per night)$40
🥤Soft drink$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transportation options may be sparse.
  • Hot and humid weather can be uncomfortable for some.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Tucuruí

Visit one of these nice places.

Tucuruí Dam

A stunning engineering marvel, the dam offers breathtaking views of the Tocantins River and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset.

Serra do Pacaás Novos

Known for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views, it's a perfect location for capturing nature's beauty.

Municipal Market

A vibrant place filled with colors, local vendors, and cultural expressions, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tucuruí

Tucuruí offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the diverse flavors of the Amazon region.

Tucuruí Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacacá

A traditional dish made from manioc broth, jambu leaves, and shrimp, served hot in a bowl, perfect for a rainy day.

Must-Try!

Pato no Tucupi

Duck cooked in a yellow sauce made from tucupi (a liquid extracted from wild manioc), served with rice and jambu.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tucuruí Municipal Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local meats, and street food stalls offering quick bites.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls throughout the city offer snacks like pastéis (pastries) and tapioca pancakes filled with sweet or savory fillings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tucuruí has a tropical climate, characterized by a wet season and a dry season. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round, with the hottest months occurring from December to February. The rainy season lasts from March to May, bringing heavy rainfall, while the dry season from June to October sees less precipitation and more comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

When meeting someone, a handshake is common, along with a friendly smile; hugs are common among friends.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and casual clothing is acceptable in most other places.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is often acceptable, especially in social settings, but it's best to be on time for business meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tucuruí is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and securing personal belongings. Be cautious with street food and ensure it's freshly prepared to avoid foodborne illnesses. Using reputable transportation and keeping emergency contact numbers handy is advisable.

Tipping in Tucuruí

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants; however, check if the service charge is already included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect high temperatures and humidity, making it ideal for water activities and exploring the nearby rivers.

Rainy Season (March to May)

Frequent rain showers are common; however, the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife are at their peak during this time.

Winter (June to August)

The climate is cooler and drier, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities and hiking.

Spring (September to November)

A transitional season with moderate temperatures and occasional rain, perfect for enjoying cultural festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Tucuruí at Night

Tucuruí's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of local bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, attracting both locals and visitors. Live bands playing traditional Brazilian music can often be found, creating a lively environment for socializing and dancing the night away. Many establishments serve local drinks like cachaça and caipirinhas, adding to the authentic experience.

Hiking in Tucuruí

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Corcovado

A popular hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and wildlife, suitable for moderate hikers.

Caminho do Rei

This trail leads through lush forests and offers opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Tucuruí by plane.

Tucuruí Airport (TUR)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this small airport offers limited flights mainly connecting to larger cities in Brazil.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tucuruí is moderately walkable, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The city center has pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly around the Municipal Market and popular restaurants. However, be cautious of uneven sidewalks and busy streets, especially during peak hours.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Various indigenous groups live in and around Tucuruí, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and heritage.

Urban Residents

The majority of the population consists of urban residents who engage in various sectors, including commerce, agriculture, and services.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Tucuruí, with local teams playing in regional leagues and passionate fans supporting their clubs.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is also popular, especially among youth, and is played in parks and recreational areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tucuruí is generally light, but it can become congested during rush hours, especially near the city center. Public transportation options include buses and informal taxi services, with many locals opting to walk or bike for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tucuruí.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Amazonian cuisine relies heavily on meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are limited, but fresh fruits and vegetables are plentiful and widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Tucuruí include public hospitals and private clinics. While basic medical services are available, major medical emergencies may require traveling to larger cities like Belém for specialized care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to bring any necessary medications.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide