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Alter do Chao

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Practical info — Alter do Chao

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Alter do Chão is a laid-back village in the state of Pará, about 30 kilometers from the city of Santarém. It is located on the banks of the Rio Tapajós, a clear tributary of the Amazon, whose water contrasts sharply with the murky Amazon water. In the dry season (August to December), the water level drops dramatically and reveals Ilha do Amor (Island of Love), a spectacular white sandbank right in front of the village, surrounded by clear, warm water. Local fishermen ferry visitors to the island in small canoes. Beyond the beaches, the surrounding area provides untouched nature. The nearby Tapajós National Forest is a protected area where huge Samaúma trees, the largest trees in the Amazon, grow. Local guides offer boat tours into the flooded forests (Igapós), where sloths, howler monkeys, and colorful macaws can be observed in their natural habitat. Encounters with pink river dolphins (Botos) are also common in these clear waters. Every September, the Festa das Çairé takes place, a traditional festival that combines indigenous myths with Catholic rituals and attracts thousands of visitors. Access to Alter do Chão is mostly via the Santarém airport, followed by a short drive on a well-maintained road. Due to its remoteness, the village has maintained a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.

Location: Brazil
Top sights: Carimbo · Praça Central · Campo do Heliantos
Population: ~6.740 (2025)

Geography

Population

6,740 (2025)

Coordinates

-2.51667, -54.95000

Facts

Located on the banks of the Rio Tapajós
Referred to as the 'Caribbean of the Amazon'
Ilha do Amor only appears in the dry season
Just 30 kilometers away from Santarém
Hosts the Sairé festival every September
Gateway to the Tapajós National Forest
Good chances to spot pink river dolphins
Known for its indigenous Tapajó culture

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Sights in the town Alter do Chao (7)

Carimbo 📍 landmark

This local attraction in Alter do Chão is named after the traditional Amazonian carimbó dance.

🕒 Th 21:30-00:00

Praça Central 🌿 nature

This central square serves as a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Tapajós River in Alter do Chão.

Campo do Heliantos 🎭 culture

This arts centre in Alter do Chão fosters creative activities in the Amazon region.

Ilha do Amor 🎡 recreation

The Ilha do Amor is a famous white-sand river beach on the Tapajós River in Alter do Chão.

Praia do Cajueiro 📍 landmark

Praia do Cajueiro is a tranquil river beach along the shores in Alter do Chão, surrounded by cashew trees.

Praia de Alter do Chão 🎡 recreation

This beautiful river beach in the Amazonian village of Alter do Chão is known for its fine sand.

Feira Agroecológica 🎭 culture

This marketplace in Alter do Chão features agroecological produce sourced from the Amazon region.

Frequently asked questions

Alter do Chao: where is it located?

Alter do Chao is located in Brazil.

Alter do Chao: what is there to see?

Highlights include Carimbo, Praça Central, Campo do Heliantos.

Alter do Chao: why is it worth visiting?

Alter do Chão is a laid-back village in the state of Pará, about 30 kilometers from the city of Santarém.

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Alter do Chao