Making the most of Macapa
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
Cruise ships are docked right in the center of town.
However most ships only stop here for clearance by Brazilian authorities only. Guests will not be able to debark the ship during this time. Clearance will include a safety inspection, health inspection and immigration formalities. Depending on the complexity of the ship this can take several hours. Some ships will dock, but stay at anchor.
Being part of Amazonia, the capital of Amapá is a stopping off point for migrating birds, which join the local flamingos, toucans, ibises, sea and river turtles, giant alligators, manatees, ant eaters and armadillos which make up the rich fauna of the region and lend special coloring to the green of the forest.
In Macapá, the waters of the Amazon river bathe on the beaches of Fazendinha and Araxá, which afford very good bathing. Bisected by the Equator, Macapá retains some of the history of the region in its monuments. One of these is Sao Jose Fort, at the entrance to the city. Completed in 1782 after 18 years of labour by Indians and slaves, the Fort is an example of French influence on the culture of the area and one of the best preserved military monuments in Brazil. The history of Amapá is also represented in the Church of Sao Jose de Macapá, which dates from 1761. It is the oldest monument in the city and is built in the sternest colonial style…
Getting around
Macaba, being on the Equator, is very hot, take a cool drink with you and dress accordingly.
Nearby places
There are no through roads to or from Macapa.
Food and shopping
Search the lively marketplace for colorful manganese-painted pottery, handcrafted leather goods, and traditional wood carvings created by local artisan.
Money
Brazilian Real
Staying connected
Portuguese spoken.
Cafes which offer free WiFi for customers are sparse.
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.
O Marabaixo is an Afro-Brazilian celebration, with music and dance, is held 40 days after the Holy Week.