Macapá - Discovering Brazil

Travelling to Macapá

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Macapá, a pretty good destination in Brazil (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Macapá and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Macapá, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Brazil, here's everything to know about Macapá for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Macapá

Macapá is the capital city of the state of Amapá in northern Brazil. It is located on the northern bank of the Amazon River, close to where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Macapá is known for its unique equatorial location, which means that the length of the day and night is almost equal throughout the year. The city is rich in cultural heritage with strong Afro-Brazilian and indigenous influences, reflected in its cuisine, music, dance and arts. Macapá is also famous for its natural beauty, featuring several parks, beaches, and rivers that offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

What to visit in Macapá

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Macapá, Brazil, along with some information about each of them: 1. Fortaleza de São José de Macapá - This is a historic military fortress located at the mouth of the Amazon River. It was built in the 18th century to defend against Dutch and French invasions. Today, it is a popular tourist destination for its stunning architecture and its museum displaying artifacts of the colonial period.
2. Marco Zero - This is the landmark from which all distances in Brazil are measured. It's an obelisk that was installed in 1949 and is located in the heart of Macapá. It's a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the view of the Amazon River.
3. Museu Sacaca - This is a museum dedicated to the culture and biodiversity of the Amazon region. It has exhibits on the history and traditions of the indigenous peoples who have inhabited the region for centuries, as well as displays of the flora and fauna that can be found in the rainforest.
4. Parque do Forte - This is a park located next to Fortaleza de São José de Macapá. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, with landscaped gardens and views of the Amazon River. There's also a playground for kids and a restaurant serving traditional Brazilian cuisine.
5. Beira Rio - This is a waterfront promenade that runs along the shores of the Amazon River. It's a great place to go for a walk or jog, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars along the way.
6. Centro de Artesanato do Amapá - This is a craft center that sells traditional handicrafts made by local artisans. You can find everything from pottery and baskets to jewelry and textiles here. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs of your trip to Macapá.
7. Parque Zoobotânico - This is a zoo and botanical garden that houses a variety of exotic animals and plants from the Amazon region. It's a great place to learn about the flora and fauna of the rainforest and see rare species up close.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Macapá, Brazil!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Brazil, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Macapá

The best time to go on holiday to Macapá (Brazil) is during the dry season, which runs from July to December. This is the ideal time to visit because the weather is warm and sunny, with lower humidity compared to the rainy season. However, it is important to note that temperatures can still be high, reaching up to 35°C (95°F). If you prefer slightly cooler weather, consider visiting during the transitional seasons of March to June or January to February, when temperatures are milder but still comfortable.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Macapá

Macapá is located in the northernmost part of Brazil, in the state of Amapá. You can reach Macapá by air or by water.
By air: The Macapá International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional de Macapá) receives daily flights from major cities in Brazil, such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Belém, and Brasília. Some airlines that serve the airport are Gol, LATAM, and Azul.
By water: Macapá is also accessible by boat, as it is situated on the banks of the Amazon River. Regular ferries travel from Belém, the capital of Pará, to Macapá. The trip can take from 24 to 36 hours, depending on the type of boat.
You can choose the best transportation option according to your preferences and schedule.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Macapá, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Macapá

Macapá is located in the Amazon rainforest, and its cuisine is influenced heavily by indigenous and African cultures. Here are some typical foods to try in Macapá: 1. Tacacá - A soup made with jambu leaves, tapioca flour, and a shrimp-based broth. It has a slightly sour and tangy taste and is often sold by street vendors.
2. Pato no tucupi - A dish made with duck meat cooked in a tucupi sauce, which is made from cassava roots. It is typically served with jambu leaves and rice.
3. Vatapá de pirarucu - A creamy stew made with pirarucu fish, coconut milk, and bread crumbs.
4. Caruru - A dish made with okra, shrimp, peanuts, and dendê oil (palm oil). It is typically served with rice and is quite spicy.
5. Arroz de Braga - A rice dish made with sausages, bacon, chicken, and vegetables. It is typically served at celebrations and special occasions.
6. Açaí na tigela - A popular dish made with acai berries, which are blended with guarana syrup and topped with granola and banana slices. It is often eaten as a breakfast or snack.
7. Leite de Castanha - A milk-based drink made with ground Brazil nuts. It has a nutty and creamy flavor and is often sold by street vendors.
8. Farofa - A seasoned mix of cassava flour, bacon, and onion. It is often used as a side dish or a topping for other dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Brazil here.

Is Macapá an expensive destination for tourists?

Macapá, like many other cities in Brazil, can be quite expensive for tourists depending on their travel preferences and budget. The cost of living and the prices of goods and services are generally high in Brazil, and Macapá is no exception. However, compared to other major tourist destinations in Brazil like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, Macapá is relatively less expensive.
Accommodation, transportation, and food costs can vary greatly depending on the type of traveler you are. It's always a good idea to compare prices and do some research before your trip to get a better idea of what to expect. Some areas where you can save money in Macapá include using public transportation or walking instead of taking taxis, staying at hostels or Airbnb instead of hotels, and eating at local markets and street vendors instead of restaurants.
Overall, Macapá can be an affordable destination if you plan carefully and make smart choices.

Where to find accomodation in Macapá

The best areas to find accommodation in Macapá are: 1. Central area: This area is the heart of the city and has many attractions such as the Fortaleza de São José de Macapá and the Mercado Municipal.
2. Zerão: This area is known for its green spaces, including a large park with amenities such as jogging trails and sports fields.
3. Beirol: This neighborhood is known for having a variety of restaurants and shopping options, as well as a popular beach.
4. Universidade: This area is home to the Universidade Federal do Amapá and has plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices at Macapá here:
Booking.com

Is Macapá a safe destination for tourists?

Macapá is considered a safe place for tourists, but like any other city, tourists should take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings and avoid carrying valuable items in public areas. It's also recommended to travel in groups, particularly at night, and to use licensed taxis or public transportation instead of walking alone. Additionally, tourists should research the areas they plan to visit and stay in well-lit and populated areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Brazil here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Macapá.

What type of travelers will enjoy Macapá the most?

Macapá, Brazil offers a variety of attractions that can appeal to different types of travelers. It's a great destination for travelers who are interested in exploring nature, wildlife, and history. The Marco Zero monument, one of the most famous landmarks of the city, is a must-visit spot that tells the story of the city's birthplace. The city also offers a range of outdoor activities like trekking, fishing, boating, riverside swimming, and exploring the Amazon Forest. For couples, Macapá offers plenty of romantic experiences with stunning sunsets, candlelit dinners, and scenic boat rides. Young people who are looking for fun and adventure can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, exciting water sports, and adrenaline-packed activities. Additionally, families can have a fun time exploring the city's cultural and historical sites while also having the opportunity to experience the Brazilian Amazon.

How to get around Macapá

The major forms of transportation in Macapá are buses and taxis. There are also motorcycle taxi services and bike rentals available. However, it is recommended to use a taxi or a bus as the primary mode of transportation due to safety concerns.

What to see around Macapá

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Macapá: 1. Oiapoque River: Take a boat tour along the Oiapoque River, which forms the border between Brazil and French Guiana.
2. Amapá State Forest: Explore the Amapá State Forest and discover its vast array of flora and fauna. 3. Oiapoque Beach: Visit Oiapoque Beach and relax on its beautiful sandy shore.
4. Bolivian Border: Take a short trip to the Bolivian border, which is just a few hours away from Macapá.
5. Fortaleza de São José de Macapá: Visit the Fortaleza de São José de Macapá, a historic fortress that stands at the mouth of the Amazon River.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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