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Araguaia River

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Araguaia River is one of Brazil's most iconic rivers and the primary tributary of the Tocantins, flowing for approximately 2,627 kilometers. Rising in the Mato Grosso Plateau, it moves northwards, serving as a natural boundary between several Brazilian states. It is globally famous for hosting Bananal Island, the world's largest river island, formed by a split in the river's main channel. During the dry season, extensive white sand beaches emerge along its banks, attracting tourists for camping and fishing. Ecologically, the area is a transition zone between the Cerrado savanna and the Amazon rainforest, resulting in extraordinary biodiversity. The river is home to the Amazon river dolphin, giant otters, and various caiman species. However, the river faces threats from deforestation and intensive agriculture within its basin, leading to increased erosion. Despite its size, the Araguaia is only partially navigable due to numerous sandbars and rapids.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	26	27	28	30	32	31	28	27
Rain mm	242	199	188	93	18	5	2	3	27	108	183	198

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The river is commonly accessed from towns like Aruanã or São Félix do Araguaia via dirt roads and local highways. Riverboats and small motorized canoes are standard transport.

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Best season

The dry season, generally from May to October, is highly popular due to the emergence of beautiful white-sand beaches along the riverbanks, excellent for camping and relaxing.

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Terrain & paths

The landscape transitions from grassy plains to seasonal white sand beaches and muddy river margins. The terrain is mostly flat but can be challenging to navigate by land vehicles.

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What to bring

Bring abundant sun protection, beachwear for the dry season, and insect repellent for the evenings. Binoculars are absolutely great for observing the rich birdlife in the region.

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Parking

Parking is usually available in the nearby access towns or at local riverside campsites. Vehicles should generally not be driven directly onto the sandy beaches to avoid getting stuck.

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Safety

While generally safe, visitors should watch out for stingrays in shallow waters and respect river currents. Always use life jackets when traveling on smaller motorized boats.

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Time needed

Visitors often spend a full weekend or several days camping on the beaches or exploring the waterways. A minimum of two to three days is strongly suggested to deeply enjoy the area.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.00000, -50.50000

Facts

Its length of 2,627 km makes it one of the longest rivers in Brazil.
Bananal Island covers an area of approximately 19,162 square km.
The river joins the Tocantins near the city of Marabá.
Archaeological finds in the region date back roughly 32,000 years.
The Araguaia National Park protects vast stretches of the river ecosystem.
The water level drops significantly during the dry season (June-September).

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Rio Araguaia known for?

For its beautiful river beaches that appear during the dry season (June-August).

What is Bananal Island?

The largest river island in the world, surrounded by the Rio Araguaia.

Can you swim in the Araguaia?

Yes, it is very popular at the beaches during the camping season.

What animals live in the river?

Turtles, river dolphins, and many fish species like the pirarucu.

Where is the Rio Araguaia located?

It forms the border between the states of Goiás, Mato Grosso, Tocantins, and Pará.

Araguaia River: where is it located?

Araguaia River is located in Brazil.

Araguaia River: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Araguaia River: why is it worth visiting?

The Araguaia River is one of Brazil's most iconic rivers and the primary tributary of the Tocantins, flowing for approximately 2,627 kilometers.

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