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Xingu River

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River
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Xingu River (Brazil)

Weather…

The Xingu River is a roughly 1,980-kilometer-long tributary of the Amazon in northern Brazil. Originating in the Mato Grosso Plateau, it flows through the Amazon Basin before joining the main stream west of Marajó Island. The river is globally recognized for the Xingu National Park, Brazil's first large-scale indigenous territory, established in the 1960s through the efforts of the Villas-Bôas brothers. This area is home to numerous indigenous tribes that have preserved their traditional ways of life. In recent years, the river gained international notoriety due to the construction of the Belo Monte Dam, one of the world's largest hydroelectric plants, which has significantly altered the water flow and local ecosystems. The Xingu is an ecologically sensitive area with many endemic fish species and rich birdlife. The lower reaches of the river are characterized by massive bends and lush riparian vegetation. Despite technological advances, the struggle to protect the Xingu remains a symbol of Amazon conservation and indigenous rights.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262525262626262728292928
Rain mm2523143583242161086138435977163

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The expansive, wild river basin is typically accessed from regional departure points deep within the Amazon basin or via organized, multi-day guided boat tours.
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Best season
The drier months are generally the most suitable for extensive exploration, as the water levels are much more favorable and safer for longer river boat journeys.
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Terrain & paths
The pristine riparian zones are often dominated by extremely dense rainforest and broad savannas, meaning large distances are almost exclusively passable by moving along the water.
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What to bring
A robust, long-lasting insect repellent, moisture-wicking tropical clothing, and absolutely reliable outdoor gear suited for hot and highly humid conditions are completely essential.
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Parking
Since further transportation is primarily conducted by riverboat, motorized land vehicles are typically left safely secured in the larger departure and major port cities of the region.
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Safety
Unexpectedly strong currents and the extremely isolated location demand great caution; it is generally best to trust and rely on highly experienced local guides for all excursions.
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Time needed
A journey into this deeply remote region often takes several full days in order for visitors to properly appreciate the immense natural scenery and the fascinating, traditional local culture.

Geography

Coordinates
-3.00000, -52.00000

Facts

  • The total length of the river is approximately 1,980 km.
  • The Xingu National Park was officially established in 1961.
  • Belo Monte is the fourth-largest hydroelectric dam in the world.
  • More than 14 different indigenous groups live in the river basin.
  • The river's course is marked by numerous rapids and waterfalls.
  • The drainage basin covers approximately 511,000 square km.

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Rio Xingu located?
It flows through the states of Mato Grosso and Pará in northern Brazil.
What is the Xingu National Park?
An important protected area for indigenous peoples on the upper part of the river.
Which large dam was built on the Xingu?
The Belo Monte Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world.
Is the Rio Xingu navigable?
Only in some sections, as there are many waterfalls and rapids.
Why is the river culturally significant?
It is home to numerous indigenous tribes who preserve their traditions.
Xingu River: where is it located?
Xingu River is located in Brazil.
Xingu River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Xingu River: why is it worth visiting?
The Xingu River is a roughly 1,980-kilometer-long tributary of the Amazon in northern Brazil.
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Nearby cities

Belém — Xingu River (Brazil)
Belém
A port city at the mouth of the Amazon, famous for its Ver-o-Peso market.
Ananindeua — Xingu River (Brazil)
Ananindeua
The second largest city in the state of Pará, closely integrated into the Belém metropolitan area.
Barreirinhas — Xingu River (Brazil)
Barreirinhas
Barreirinhas is the gateway to the world-famous Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
Alter do Chao — Xingu River (Brazil)
Alter do Chao
A village on the Tapajós River in the Amazon region, famous for its white sand beaches.

Nature

Tapajós River — Xingu River (Brazil)
Tapajós River
The Tapajós River is known for its clear waters and strong Amazonian biodiversity.

More places

Carajás Mine — Xingu River (Brazil)
Carajás Mine
The largest open-pit iron ore mine in the world, serving as a pillar of the Brazilian mining sector.
Marajó Island — Xingu River (Brazil)
Marajó Island
A massive coastal island at the mouth of the Amazon, noted for its water buffaloes.
Port of Vila do Conde — Xingu River (Brazil)
Port of Vila do Conde
A major port in Barcarena, Pará, focused heavily on the export of aluminum, alumina, and other bulk minerals.
Forte do Presépio — Xingu River (Brazil)
Forte do Presépio
The first Portuguese defense installation in the Amazon region, marking the origin of the city of Belém.
Port of Belém — Xingu River (Brazil)
Port of Belém
An important river-marine port serving the Amazon estuary, facilitating regional trade and passenger transport.
Theatro da Paz — Xingu River (Brazil)
Theatro da Paz
The Theatro da Paz is a magnificent opera house in Belém, built during the rubber boom and reflecting the neoclassical architectural styl…
Emílio Goeldi Museum Zoo-Botanical Park — Xingu River (Brazil)
Emílio Goeldi Museum Zoo-Botanical Park
A major research institution and park in the Amazon dedicated to the local flora and fauna.
Trombetas Bauxite Mine — Xingu River (Brazil)
Trombetas Bauxite Mine
The largest bauxite mine in Brazil, located deep in the Amazon and pivotal for the global aluminum supply chain.