Alter do Chão

Written by Alexander Kopp, Maria Gaulto, Maria Vajello
06/08/2025
Peaceful scene with boats moored on serene water at Alter do Chão, Brazil.
Lucia Barreiros Silva, Pexels

Alter do Chão is a charming riverside village nestled in the Brazilian Amazon, renowned for its pristine freshwater beaches along the Tapajós River. It offers a unique combination of tranquil sandy shores and opportunities for adventurous exploration within the surrounding rainforest.

The village center provides a lively atmosphere with restaurants, bars, and local craft shops, ideal for socializing. Ilha do Amor, a popular river beach, also features various kiosks and bars where visitors gather.

Top 5 Things to do in Alter do Chão

Activities in Alter do Chão primarily involve boat tours to pristine freshwater beaches and flooded forests, rainforest treks, and cultural immersions within local communities.

1. Explore Ilha do Amor and Nearby Beaches

Ilha do Amor, or Love Island, is a iconic sand peninsula located directly across from the village center, known for its soft white sands and calm, clear waters. It is an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing, with several kiosks offering food and drinks. The best time to visit and walk on the sand is during the dry season (August to January) when the river waters recede. Beyond Ilha do Amor, boat tours often visit other stunning river beaches like Ponta do Cururu and Ponta do Muretá, where you can witness breathtaking sunsets over the vast Tapajós River.

Cost: Access to Ilha do Amor by rowboat costs approximately R$10 return, especially when waters are higher. Paddleboard rentals are available for about R$50 per hour. Full-day boat tours to multiple beaches typically range from R$120 to R$150 per person.

Transport: Ilha do Amor is walking distance from the village center during the dry season, or a short rowboat ride across otherwise. Other beaches are primarily accessed via boat tours departing from the village.

2. Tapajós National Forest (FLONA) Expedition

A visit to Floresta Nacional do Tapajós (FLONA) provides an immersive rainforest experience. Guided treks allow you to learn about diverse Amazonian flora and fauna, including giant Samaúma trees. Many tours include a stop at the Jamaraquá community, where you can interact with local indigenous people, learn about their culture, and enjoy traditional meals. Swimming in the clear igarapés (small rivers) within the forest offers a refreshing break.

Cost: Full-day tours to FLONA are a common offering. Specific tour prices vary, but a typical full-day boat tour for multiple attractions (including forest stops) might be around R$120-R$150 per person or higher for a dedicated FLONA tour. Some online tour providers list FLONA tours for around $92 USD.

Transport: FLONA is accessed by boat, typically a 1-hour ride from Alter do Chão. Tours usually arrange transport from the village center.

3. Canal do Jari Wildlife and Cultural Tour

The Canal do Jari offers an opportunity to explore a narrow river channel connecting to the Amazon River, known for its abundant wildlife. Visitors may spot caimans, river dolphins, sloths, monkeys, and various bird species. Tours often include a stop at a local family's property where visitors can learn about traditional handicrafts made from natural materials, and observe giant water lilies (Victoria Amazonica) up close.

Cost: Tours to Canal do Jari are generally full-day excursions. Prices for tours can be around $92 USD per person.

Transport: Accessed by boat, typically as part of an organized tour departing from Alter do Chão.

4. Hike to Serra da Piraoca

For panoramic views of Alter do Chão and its surrounding natural beauty, a hike up Serra da Piraoca is rewarding. From the summit, one can see Lago Verde, the vast Tapajós River, and Ilha do Amor, providing an excellent vantage point for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Cost: The hike can be done independently. For safety and guidance, especially for sunset hikes, hiring a local guide is recommended. Tour agencies might offer this as part of a package or a shorter excursion.

Transport: The trail starts near Ilha do Amor, which is accessible by foot or a short rowboat ride from the village center.

5. Experience Local Culture and Cuisine

Immerse yourself in Alter do Chão's vibrant local culture. Visitors can attend Carimbó dance performances, a traditional Amazonian rhythm, often held weekly. Exploring the village allows for tasting authentic local cuisine, including freshwater fish like tambaqui, regional fruits, and traditional dishes such as tacacá. Visits to riverside communities, like the Coroca or Urucureá, offer insights into daily life, honey production, and local craftsmanship.

Cost: Costs vary. Dining at local restaurants offers meals typically ranging from R$30 to R$80 per person. Attending Carimbó performances might have a small entrance fee or be part of a larger cultural event. Community visits are often integrated into longer boat tours, so the cost would be part of the tour price.

Transport: Activities within the village, such as restaurants and Carimbó performances, are largely walkable. Community visits require boat transport, typically arranged through a tour.

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