Ilha do Amor
A white sandbar stretching into the Tapajós River opposite the town, with clear water and fine sand. Dubbed the 'Caribbean of Brazil', it is the symbol of Alter do Chão.
Ilha do Amor is a sandbar separated from the town by a shallow bay. The Guardian once named it one of the most beautiful freshwater beaches in the world. During the low-water season (roughly August to December), the sandbar is fully exposed, and the white sand, clear Tapajós River water and the Serra da Piroca hill across the way create the classic scene. Along the beach, a row of thatched bars sells grilled fish and coconut water. Small wooden boats called catraias run from the town pier in just a few minutes; a one-way trip costs about 5 reais. When the water is shallow, you can also wade across. Watching the sunset from the western tip of the sandbar is best. During the high-water season (roughly January to June), most of the sandbar is submerged, and the scenery is entirely different. Protect yourself from the sun, watch for stingrays when swimming, and shuffle your feet when walking.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Alter do Chão Village & Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Saúde
- Araribá Indigenous Art Center
- Lago Verde
- Serra da Piroca
- Floresta Encantada
- Ponta do Cururu
- Pindobal Beach
- Ponta de Pedras Beach