Santarém Shore Excursions
4 & 5* Santarém Shore Excursions
Santarém
Alter do Chão FLONA Jamaraquá Tour
Duration: 1 - 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 98.25
Santarém
Alter do Chão Arapiuns River Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 500.00
Santarém
Regional Cruise in the Amazon
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 96 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 1866.66
Santarém
Alter do Chão Jarí Canal Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 98.25
Santarém
Bike trip from Alter do Chão
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 127.72
Santarém
Santarém Water Encounters Tour
Duration: 1 - 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 98.25
Santarém
Live the best 10 attractions in Alter do Chão
Duration: 1 - 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 78.60
Santarém
Alter do Chao Sunset Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 - 4 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 68.77
Santarém
Isaiah Transfer Alter do Chão and Santarém
Duration: 0 - 3 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 31.44
Santarém
Amazon FULL Vacation Package 3 Days
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 72 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 1277.19
Santarém
Amazon ALL Inclusive Vacation Package 5 Days
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 120 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 1925.60
Santarém
Amazon Complete Vacation Package 7 Days
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 168 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 2947.35
Santarém
Santarém Maica Lake Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 1 - 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 98.25
Santarém
Amazon Eco Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 78.60
Santarém
Amazon Arapiuns River Aruã Waterfall Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 120 Hours
Physical difficulty: Medium
Free cancellation
From USD 1964.90
Santarém
Alter do Chão Amorim Tour
Port pick-up: Included
Duration: 8 Hours
Physical difficulty: Easy
Free cancellation
From USD 98.25
Related destinations to Santarém
What should first-time visitors expect when disembarking in Santarém?
Arriving in Santarém can be disorienting for first-time visitors because the riverine landscape differs from typical coastal ports. A concise orientation helps clarify transport logistics, safety, and time needed for popular day trips. Many cruisers choose organised day trips labelled as Santarém shore excursions that include transfers, boat rides and park or beach time, but independent exploration is feasible with planning. Useful tips include carrying water, sun protection, insect repellent, and photocopies of travel documents, while confirming return times to the ship and checking river conditions before setting out.
Which attractions are must-sees for a short visit to the area?
Top attractions near the port range from white-sand beaches to riverside forest reserves and historic quarters. Alter do Chão's seasonal beaches draw visitors who want calm, warm water and gentle island-hopping opportunities. Local markets, including the Ver-o-Peso-style market in Santarém, offer handicrafts and fresh produce. River viewpoints and short forest trails reveal birdlife and flooded forest ecosystems. Many organised options are promoted as Santarém tours but self-guided visits can also cover the beach, market and a riverside walk if you prioritise time and transport arrangements.
How do half-day options compare with full-day excursions from the port?
Choosing between a half-day and a full-day depends on what you want to see and how much time the ship allows. A half-day is sufficient for a quick visit to Alter do Chão beach or a short river cruise, offering swimming and a market stop without long transfers. Opting for Santarém shore excursions that are full-day enables travel to more remote islands, extended forest walks, or cultural visits with relaxed pacing and time for meals. Consider sea or river transfer times, daylight hours and return windows when deciding.
Where can I learn about the local culture and history during a visit?
Local culture blends indigenous, riverine and colonial influences visible in festivals, handicrafts and street life. Historic churches, small museums and riverside warehouses hint at the town's role in regional trade. Markets sell traditional foods and artisanal goods, and seasonal events celebrate community identity. Many visitors encounter these themes on curated Santarém tours that include knowledgeable guides explaining historical context, oral histories and cultural practices. Engaging respectfully with residents, asking permission before photographing people, and learning a few Portuguese phrases enhances interactions and supports authentic cultural exchange.
What natural scenery and wildlife can be seen nearby?
Riverine forests, clear tributaries and seasonal white-sand beaches create dramatic scenery that changes with rainfall and river levels. Birdwatchers and botanists will notice flooded forests, igapó and várzea habitats, while the Tapajós River's clear waters invite swimming and calm boat trips. Popular observation points reveal sunsets over sandbanks and river islands. Photographers and nature lovers taking Santarém shore excursions should bring waterproof cases, binoculars, and layered clothing for humidity and sun exposure. Respect protected areas, avoid disturbing wildlife and follow local guidelines to minimise impact on fragile ecosystems.
What local foods and dining options are typical in Santarém?
Regional cuisine highlights freshwater fish, açaí, manioc-based dishes and Amazonian fruits, with flavours distinct from coastal Brazilian food. Typical preparations include grilled tambaqui, fish stews and manioc flour accompaniments served in simple riverside restaurants. Street and market stalls sell snacks and juices; tasting local dishes is often part of Santarém tours where guides explain ingredients and dining customs. Take precautions by choosing busy, clean stalls, drinking bottled water, and informing staff of any allergies. Sampling modest portions first helps adapt to local flavours and reduces the chance of digestive issues.
What level of physical activity is required for common shore activities?
Exercise intensity ranges from gentle beach relaxation to moderate river hikes and boat transfers that may involve stepping up into small craft. Some Santarém shore excursions include uneven forest trails, soft sand and slippery riverbanks, requiring steady footwear and basic mobility. Those preferring low exertion should choose beach-focused or short village visits with minimal walking. If you have mobility concerns or health issues, inform the operator or local guide before booking, carry necessary medications, and confirm assistance options and transfer methods to avoid unexpected physical challenges during shore activities.
How accessible are the port, beaches and trails for people with mobility needs?
Accessibility at river ports varies considerably; some piers and tendering areas have steps, narrow gangways or unstable surfaces that complicate wheelchair access. Not all beaches or forest trails are suitable for mobility aids, and river boats may lack ramps. When planning Santarém tours, directly ask providers about lift-equipped transfers, wheelchair-friendly vehicles and assistance for boarding. Port staff and guides sometimes arrange extra help, but availability is not guaranteed. Carry documentation for mobility needs, request detailed descriptions of transfer methods, and allow extra time to ensure a comfortable, safe experience.
When is the best time of year to visit the beaches and river areas?
Timing affects beach size, river clarity and bird activity; the dry season from July to November generally exposes the white-sand banks at Alter do Chão and produces clearer Tapajós waters for swimming and photography. Rainy months raise river levels, expanding flooded forests and offering different wildlife viewing but reducing exposed beaches. For popular Santarém shore excursions aim for the dry window to access sandbanks and gentle swimming, while birders or those seeking lush river forests may prefer the high-water months for tropical biodiversity and seasonal river dynamics.
What are the advantages of choosing a guided experience versus going independently?
Deciding between guided and independent exploration hinges on comfort with local logistics and language. Guided options offer local knowledge, arranged transport and safety briefings, often simplifying access to islands and protected sites. Independent visitors gain flexibility and can move at their own pace but must research river schedules, transport options and entry rules. Choosing Santarém tours provides context about ecology and culture, whereas going solo requires careful planning, clear maps and contingency plans for weather or delays. Always communicate intended return times to the ship and carry emergency contacts.
Which cruise lines visit Santarém?
Holland America Line and Oceania Cruises will all visit Santarém this year.
What cruise ships will sail to Santarém in 2026?
Santarém will be visited by Volendam, Oceania Insignia and Oceania Marina.