Tapajós National Forest
Floresta Nacional do Tapajós (FLONA)
A large protected area of primary rainforest on the right bank of the Tapajós River. Visitors stay in local communities, hike with guides, and see the giant kapok tree nicknamed the 'Grandmother Tree'.
Tapajós National Forest (FLONA Tapajós) covers about 520,000 hectares and is one of the first Amazon protected areas to open to community-based ecotourism. Visitors usually head to the riverside communities of Jamaraquá and Maguari, where local residents lead them along rainforest trails. The highlight is a centuries-old giant samaúma (kapok) tree, nicknamed the 'Grandmother Tree', whose trunk takes more than a dozen people to encircle. Along the way, you can also see rubber tapping, natural latex leather making and cassava flour workshops. Overnight stays are possible in community guesthouses or hammock houses. From Alter do Chão, you can take a van or drive a dirt road via Belterra, a trip of about 1.5 hours, or reach the park by boat. A small entry fee applies, and a local guide must be hired.
Opening hours
Daytime (community guide required)
Nearby sights
- Belterra
- Pindobal Beach
- Floresta Encantada
- Araribá Indigenous Art Center
- Alter do Chão Village & Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Saúde
- Ilha do Amor
- Lago Verde
- Serra da Piroca