· BR

Santarém

Santarem, Para, Brazil

Where the Amazon River Blushes: Discover Santarém, Brazil Nestled at the confluence of the mighty Amazon and Tapajós rivers, Santarém, Pará, is a vibrant tapestry woven from indigenous traditions, colonial history, and b…

#Santarém#Pará#Brazil#Amazon region#Tropical climate

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Santarém.

Top Hotels in Santarém

Top Flights to Santarém

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Santarém.

Tours

Meeting of the Waters

Witness the incredible phenomenon where the Tapajós and Amazon rivers meet without mixing for several kilometers.

Shopping

Santíssimo Shopping Center

A modern shopping center offering a variety of stores, dining, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Amazon River Boat Tour

Explore the majestic Amazon River and its rich biodiversity with a guided boat tour.

Alter do Chão Beach

Relax on the picturesque white sand beaches of Alter do Chão, known as the Caribbean of the Amazon.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Santarém.

Currency

R$ | BRL | Brazilian Real

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Santarém, Pará, Brazil is 'Not Available'.

Languages

Portuguese, Portuguese

Average weather

Santarém

Jan

31°23°

Feb

31°23°

Mar

31°23°

Apr

31°23°

May

31°23°

Jun

31°23°

Jul

32°23°

Aug

33°23°

Sep

33°23°

Oct

33°24°

Nov

32°24°

Dec

31°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Santarém.

What people love

Santarém, located in the state of Pará, Brazil, has several pros that make it an attractive destination for travelers:

Meeting of the Waters: One of the main attractions in Santarém is the Meeting of the Waters, where the Tapajós and Amazon rivers come together but do not mix due to differences in temperature, speed, and water density. This natural phenomenon is a unique sight to witness.
Fluvial Beaches: The region around Santarém is known for its beautiful fluvial beaches along the rivers, such as Alter do Chão, which is often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Amazon" due to its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches.
Eco-tourism: Santarém is a gateway to the Amazon rainforest, offering opportunities for eco-tourism activities such as jungle treks, bird watching, and boat tours to explore the rich biodiversity of the region.
Cultural Heritage: The city of Santarém itself has a rich cultural heritage, with historic buildings, churches, and local markets where you can experience the local way of life and sample traditional cuisine.
Festivals and Events: Santarém hosts vibrant festivals and events throughout the year, such as the famous Sairé festival, which celebrates local folklore and traditions with music, dance, and colorful parades.

Overall, traveling to Santarém offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Amazon region, experience local culture, and engage in eco-friendly tourism activities.

What to know

Santarém, located in the state of Pará, Brazil, is a beautiful and culturally rich destination. However, like any other place, there are some cons to consider when traveling to Santarém:

Health Concerns: Santarém, being a tropical destination, has a high prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Travelers are advised to take necessary precautions such as using insect repellent and taking antimalarial medication.
Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Santarém, so communication might be a challenge for travelers who do not speak Portuguese. It's recommended to learn some basic Portuguese phrases before traveling to Santarém.
Infrastructure: The infrastructure in Santarém may not be as developed as in larger cities, so travelers may encounter issues with transportation, roads, and public services.
Seasonal Flooding: Santarém is located at the confluence of the Amazon and Tapajós rivers, which can lead to seasonal flooding during the rainy season. This may disrupt travel plans and activities in the region.
Safety Concerns: While Santarém is generally safe for tourists, like any other destination, travelers should be cautious of their surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Overall, while Santarém has its cons, it is still a unique and beautiful destination worth exploring for its natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals.

Santarém is a city located in the western part of the state of Pará, Brazil. It is an important urban center on the banks of the Tapajós River, near the point where it meets the Amazon River. Here's a detailed history of Santarém:

Early History

Pre-Columbian Era: Before the arrival of Europeans, the region was inhabited by various Indigenous groups, including the Tapajós people, who are known for their sophisticated ceramics and settlements.

Colonial Period

1661: Santarém was founded by Portuguese Jesuit missionaries on June 22, 1661. The city was originally named "Aldeia do Tapajós" after the local Indigenous people.
1693: The settlement was later renamed Santarém, after the city of the same name in Portugal.

19th Century

Rubber Boom: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Santarém became an important center for rubber production. The rubber boom brought economic growth and a wave of immigrants, which significantly influenced the development of the city.

20th Century

Cabanagem Revolt: Santarém was affected by the Cabanagem Revolt (1835-1840), a significant socio-political uprising in the Amazon region. Although the revolt was primarily centered in Belém, Santarém experienced political and social upheavals.
World War II: During World War II, the United States built an airbase in Santarém, which played a role in the transport of goods and military supplies across the Amazon.

Modern Era

Economic Development: In recent decades, Santarém has experienced significant economic development. The construction of the BR-163 highway, linking Santarém to Cuiabá, has improved access and spurred growth in agriculture and trade.
Environmental Concerns: With development, there have been growing concerns about deforestation and environmental conservation in the surrounding Amazon rainforest.

Significant Figures

Father João Felipe Bettendorff: A Jesuit missionary who played a significant role in the early development of Santarém.
José de Anchieta: Another Jesuit missionary who contributed to the region's religious and cultural history.

Important Landmarks

Alter do Chão: A famous beach known for its white sands and clear waters, often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Amazon."
Cathedral of Our Lady of Conception: A historic cathedral located in the city, showcasing colonial architecture.
Museu de Santarém: A museum that houses artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region.
Mercado Municipal de Santarém: The municipal market is a vibrant place where locals and tourists can find a wide variety of local products, including fish, fruits, and artisanal goods.

Santarém continues to be a hub of cultural and economic activity in the Amazon region, balancing development with its rich history and natural beauty.