Santarem tours

Things to do in Santarem

Imagine Santarem, Brazil, where the tranquil blue of the Tapajós River mingles with the Amazon's murkier waters, creating a natural wonder that's both captivating and distinct. This city is more than just an entry point to the rainforest; it's a gateway to Amazonian culture and biodiversity. With a local guide, go beneath the surface on river tours that unveil the hidden richness of this verdant paradise. The Santarem markets offer a sensory feast on walking tours, with the fragrance of exotic fruits mingling with the vibrant local conversations. A private tour into the rainforest promises encounters with the sights and sounds that are quintessentially Amazonian. Tours in Santarem with your guide transform each moment into an exploration of cultural richness and natural splendour. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Santarem. Explore Santarem your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Santarem tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Santarem for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Canoe quiet igarapés at Lago Verde near Alter do Chão to look for herons and sloths, or hike Tapajós National Forest with a forest guide to stand beneath giant samaúma trees. At Lago Maicá, scan for pink river dolphins and giant water lilies on a sunrise tour. Boat tours: Cruise to the Encontro das Águas where the blue Tapajós meets the brown Amazon, then anchor at Ilha do Amor for a swim. A private regional boat can visit ribeirinho communities for açaí tasting, try piranha fishing at dusk, and finish with sunset at Ponta de Cururu. History tours: Walk the riverfront to the Catedral Nossa Senhora da Conceição and Museu João Fona to learn about Tapajó Indigenous heritage and rubber‑era stories. With a full day, tour Belterra’s 1930s planned town and latex trails, or go by speedboat to see Fordlândia’s remains. The compact centre is somewhat walkable, but public transport won’t get you easily to Alter do Chão, the forest, or river sights. For reliable logistics, book chauffeured tours, tours with private transportation, and private boat charters with your local guide. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Santarem inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore the fascinating city of Santarém on a private walking tour, and let your local guide introduce you to its unique neighbourhoods. Walking the streets with a local gives you the insider perspective on the city’s charm. - Centro: The heart of Santarém, where history buffs can delight in the architecture and local markets. It’s a wonderful area for families to explore, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the city. - Aldeia: Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking meaningful connections, this neighbourhood provides access to the Tapajós River. Enjoy beautiful walking paths and the lush environment with insights from your guide. - Santarém-Novo: For those who love cultural immersion, this area is rich with local traditions. Discover artisanal crafts and enjoy local cuisine, making it a great spot for cultural tourists and families alike. Day trip ideas from Santarem Use Santarém as a base to slip out to beaches, forest trails, and river villages on easy day trips, and shape your tour around swimming, wildlife, or local life. - Alter do Chão: lounge on white river sand, swim in clear Tapajós water, paddle across to Ilha do Amor, and walk up Serra da Piraoca for a wide view; this small village suits relaxed beach time, light hikes, and simple lunches by the shore. - Tapajós National Forest near Belterra: stroll shaded trails under tall trees, see rubber tapping sites with community stories, cool off in clear streams, and watch for birds and monkeys; good for nature lovers who want a calm, informative day in the forest. - Maicá Lake and the meeting of the waters: ride narrow channels to look for herons and river dolphins, then watch the blue Tapajós line up with the brown Amazon without mixing; wildlife watchers and photographers get close to classic Amazon scenes in a compact loop. - Arapiuns River beaches and communities: boat upriver to wide seasonal sandbars for swimming and picnics, visit small workshops to see weaving or woodcraft, and stop at quiet coves far from city noise; your tour can focus on community visits, soft adventure, or long, easy swims. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Santarem most travellers miss.