Making the most of Alter do Chao
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
As cruise ships are not able to dock here you will be tendered ashore to the center of this attractive beach resort.
The origin of the name is a tribute to the Portuguese town of Alter do Chão
The main attraction of Alter do Chao is sandbar that is wadeable in dry season. Be especially careful of stingrays when visiting some of the more remote beaches in the area. They will only sting when stepped on, so shuffle your feet when you walk in the water.
The town of Alter-do-Chão is 30 km away from Santarém. It is considered the most famous resort in the area. It is the most appreciated beach in the region and an obligatory stop for foreign cruises. Bathed by the Tapajós River, the town's beach is temporary, since it is formed during the river's high water season. One of the curiosities about this town is its green lake, whose waters change color during the day, from blue to green.
From this island you can head into the Amazon jungle on foot to explore the wildlife and get a glimpse of the many different species of plants that grow here.
Getting around
Only a handful of Alter do Chão’s streets are paved. Alter do Chão’s riverfront area has been completely refurbished, with a new orla fluvial (waterfront promenade) that extends several hundred meters along what was once just a muddy bank. Stairs, rails, and a new dock area make catching a rowboat to Ilha do Amor easier and safer while the wide walkway and numerous benches make the riverfront a nice place for a stroll.
Nearby places
The town provides easy access to the Floresta Nacional do Tapajós (FLONA Tapajós), a beautiful national forest where you can hike and canoe.
Food and shopping
An open-air market near the jetty offers Indian and regional wares, which make nice souvenirs.
Money
Brazilian Real
Staying connected
Portuguese spoken.
It has a couple of Internet places but they have only two terminals each.
Opening Hours and
Basic hours for most stores and businesses are from 9am to 6pm, with an extended lunch hour from around noon to 2pm.
Many museums are closed on monday.