Getting There and Away

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

The primary transport hub for Alter do Chão, Brazil, is Santarém, which hosts an international airport (STM) and a port for river ferries. Alter do Chão itself is a riverside village approximately 34-37 kilometers (20-23 miles) from Santarém.

By Air:

The most common way to reach Alter do Chão is by flying into Santarém International Airport (STM). Daily flights are available from major Brazilian cities such as Belém, Manaus, and Brasília.

  • Flights from Manaus (MAO) to Santarém (STM) typically take 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 21 minutes, with prices ranging from R$420–3,000.
  • Flights from Belém (BEL) to Santarém (STM) take about 2 hours 10 minutes, costing approximately R$500–4,300.

From Santarém to Alter do Chão (approx. 34-37 km/20-23 miles):

  • Taxi/Uber/Private Transfer:: A taxi or private transfer from Santarém Airport to Alter do Chão takes about 35-50 minutes and generally costs between R$70-R$200.
  • Public Bus:: Regular public buses operate from Santarém to Alter do Chão hourly, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. The fare is typically R$3-R$10. If arriving at Santarém Airport, a transfer to the Rio Tapajós Shopping mall in Santarém is needed before taking a second bus to Alter do Chão.

By Ferry:

For an immersive experience, river ferries connect Santarém with Manaus and Belém along the Amazon River.

  • The ferry journey from Manaus to Santarém takes approximately 1.5 days (36 hours), with prices starting around R$150-R$250 for a hammock spot, or R$528-R$730 for other options.
  • From Belém, the ferry to Santarém can take 2-3 days (2 days 14 hours), with costs ranging from R$150-R$330.
  • Upon arrival in Santarém, land transport is required to reach Alter do Chão.

Car Rental:

Car rental options are available in Santarém. The drive from Santarém Airport to Alter do Chão is around 35 minutes. While possible, a rental car may not be essential for exploring Alter do Chão as most local tours are conducted by boat.

Check out our other pages on Alter do Chão

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