Things To Do
in Xapuri
Xapuri is a small Amazonian town in Acre, Brazil, nestled along the Purus River and surrounded by dense rainforest. It is renowned as the cradle of environmentalist Chico Mendes, whose legacy shaped conservation and rubber-tapper culture in the region. The town offers a gateway to forest adventures, river life, and intimate encounters with riverine communities.
Visitors will experience warm hospitality, lush landscapes, and a pace of life that invites exploration and reflection.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day in the vibrant Historic Center of Xapuri, where you'll wander through the charming streets lined with colonial-style buildings. Stop by the local market to sample traditional Brazilian breakfast items such as pão de queijo and fresh tropical fruits. Engage with friendly local artisans and learn about the history of the area as you explore the quaint shops and galleries.
Visit the Museu de Xapuri to gain insight into the region's rich history, including its rubber boom era and cultural significance. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, savoring regional dishes that showcase the flavors of Acre. Spend your afternoon strolling along the picturesque Rio Xapuri, taking in the lush scenery and possibly spotting local wildlife.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in Amazonian cuisine featuring fresh fish and exotic ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the town square, often bustling with vendors and local musicians. End your day by relaxing at your accommodation, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Xapuri.
Start your day early with a guided nature walk into the Amazon Rainforest surrounding Xapuri, where you'll be immersed in the sounds of wildlife and the sights of towering trees. Your knowledgeable guide will point out diverse flora and fauna, helping you understand the delicate ecosystem of the rainforest. Don't forget your camera, as the vibrant colors and unique species will provide countless photo opportunities.
Break for a picnic lunch in a serene clearing, enjoying fresh local fruits and snacks while surrounded by the beauty of nature. After lunch, continue your exploration as you trek deeper into the forest, perhaps even discovering hidden waterfalls or unique wildlife. This afternoon is all about connecting with the environment and learning about the vital role of the rainforest.
Return to Xapuri as the sun begins to set, reflecting on the day's adventures and the wonders of the Amazon. Dine at a local restaurant that offers traditional dishes made from ingredients sourced from the rainforest. After dinner, relax at a local bar, enjoying a refreshing caipirinha while listening to live music and sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚎Local transport (ride within town) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and immersive rainforest experiences
- Warm, welcoming locals and authentic Amazonian culture
- Relatively affordable travel within the region
- Historic significance tied to conservation and rubber-tapping history
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist conveniences
- English not widely spoken outside hotels and tour operators
- Remote location with uneven road conditions in the wet season
- Limited medical facilities in town; serious care requires travel to Rio Branco
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Onde fica [o/quL] [lugar]?" - Where is [the place]?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Xapuri
Visit one of these nice places.
Open waterfront views along the riverbank with vibrant evening colors and silhouettes of boats and trees.
A focal point in town with sculpture, shaded paths, and candid street photography of locals.
Bustling morning activity, colorful boats, and reflections on the water against the palm-lined riverbank.
Historic center ambiance with colonial architecture, locals, and morning light ideal for street portraits.
Architectural lines over the water offering wide-angle shots of the river and surrounding forest.
Food in Xapuri
Xapuri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hot tucupi-based soup with jambu leaves and dried shrimp, typically served in a bowl and eaten with manioc flour.
Must-Try!
Duck cooked in tucupi sauce, a rich, tangy dish common in Acre and neighboring regions, often served with rice and farofa.
Caiman meat prepared in various styles, a regional specialty you may find at riverfront eateries.
Açaí served in a bowl with toppings like granola or banana; a refreshing staple in the heat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Riverside market offering fresh fish, cassava, fruits, and everyday staples; great for observing local life and trying simple snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Remove shoes where requested and be mindful of local customs around photography in certain communities.
Respect riverine livelihoods, avoid littering, and seek permission before entering private or community areas.
Safety
Tipping in Xapuri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service is good; rounding up the bill is also acceptable. At smaller inns or markets, tipping is optional.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect more reliable road travel and sunny to warm days. Wildlife is easier to spot near clear water; evenings can be pleasantly cool.
Lush green landscapes and higher river levels, but expect frequent rain, higher humidity, and potential travel delays. Mosquito protection is essential.
Xapuri at Night
Hiking in Xapuri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails offering biodiversity, forest canopy views, and opportunities to learn about sustainable rubber tapping.
Riverside trails ideal for birdwatching and photography, with opportunities to see wildlife along the water.
Short, guided hikes suitable for a day trip, highlighting native flora and animal life.
Airports
How to reach Xapuri by plane.
Located in the capital, this is the primary gateway to Acre with connections to Manaus, Brasília, and other major hubs. Travel to Xapuri typically requires a road transfer from Rio Branco.
A major Amazon hub further afield; often used for international connections, then onward travel to Acre by air and road.
A larger regional airport in Rondônia that can serve as an alternative gateway when routing through western Amazonia, though it is farther from Xapuri.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People whose livelihoods depend on the river, maintaining strong cultural traditions tied to fishing, rubber tapping, and canoe travel.
Residents who work in shops, markets, and services in the town center and surrounding neighborhoods.
Various groups in Acre with distinct languages, crafts, and cultural practices that influence local heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region; local leagues and informal games are common in town squares and fields.
River fishing is both a livelihood and a recreational activity for visitors in season.
A common pastime in community centers and schools, especially in the rainy season when indoor activities are favored.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xapuri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes center on manioc, rice, beans, and vegetables. When ordering, ask for no meat and request oil-free options; rice and farofa with legumes are common vegetarian bases.