Alter do Chao, Brazil - 1 of 2

We tendered into Alter do Chão, a popular tourist destination among both locals and foreigners, primarily due to its white beaches and at the same time its proximity to the Amazon jungle. The main beach in front of the town is the IIha do Amor (Island of Love).

Alter do Chao is an administrative district of the city of Santarem. Until the 18th Century the village was inhabited by indigenous Boraris. In the early 20th century this was a major transportation route of latex from the rubber trees (until the 1950s when latex production ended).

During the low river season, from August to January, the region reveals long stretches of fine sand beaches along the Tapajós River. In contrast, the flood season, from February to July, transforms the area with flooded forests. Our visit was considered the transition between these seasons with a mix of both.Read more