How to get to Belém

When planning a trip to the northern part of Brazil, many travellers wonder how to reach Belém — the colourful "Gateway to the Amazon". This major port city, combining historical heritage with the exuberance of tropical nature, welcomes guests from all over the world, offering various logistical options. You can arrive here by flying into the local airport, taking an intercity bus, or driving by car to personally appreciate the unique atmosphere of the state of Pará.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by the Val de Cans International Airport (BEL), which processes over four million passengers through its terminals annually. The airport is located within easy reach of the main districts, making arrival here the optimal choice for most tourists.

In the absence of direct flights or when constructing complex itineraries, one can consider aviation hubs in neighbouring cities, although they are located at a significant distance. The nearest alternatives include airports in Salinópolis (approximately 158 km) and Paragominas (about 212 km), from where you will have to continue your journey by ground transport.

Travellers should note that there is no direct railway connection to Belém, as there is no active passenger station in the city. The railway in this part of Brazil is not used as a primary mode of tourist transport.

The nearest points on the map that can be conditionally considered within the context of the region's transport network are Salinópolis and Paragominas. However, even reaching them by train can be problematic, so tourists are advised to choose alternative methods of travel.

Bus transportation remains a sought-after way to travel around the state. A fairly popular route is from the resort town of Salinópolis: covering a distance of about 225 km takes approximately 4.3 hours, allowing you to enjoy the views from the window.

For those departing from the city of Breves, the journey will be much longer and more complex. Despite the distance of about 227 km, the travel time can be around 16.4 hours, due to the geography of the region and road infrastructure.

Travelling by car allows you to independently plan your schedule and stops. If you are driving from Salinópolis, the road to Belém, spanning about 215 km, will take approximately 3.8 hours.

Another common route runs from the city of Paragominas. In this case, drivers will have to cover roughly 290 km, which usually takes about 4.6 hours with normal traffic.

Belém is a city with a unique Amazonian flair, where the humid climate and local traditions dictate their own rules. To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, please review a few practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate: It is hot and humid here year-round. Bring light clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen). Be sure to carry an umbrella or raincoat, as tropical downpours occur frequently and suddenly.
2. Transport: For moving around the city, it is safer and more convenient to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps (such as Uber). Public buses can be overcrowded and difficult to navigate without knowledge of the language.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Cards are accepted in most restaurants and hotels, but for buying souvenirs at the famous Ver-o-Peso market or street food, it is better to have small denomination cash.
4. Health: Use insect repellents, as insects in the Amazon region are active. Drink only bottled water and avoid beverages with ice in unverified street cafes.
5. Language: The main language is Portuguese. English is not understood everywhere, so download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases ("thank you", "how much is it", "where is").
6. Safety: Try not to display expensive gadgets and jewellery on the street. At night, it is better to travel by taxi and avoid deserted areas.
7. Gastronomy: Be sure to try local delicacies such as açaí (eaten here as a side dish, not a dessert) and tacacá soup to truly experience the taste of the region.

Following these simple rules will help you adapt faster to the rhythm of life in Belém and focus on exploring its rich culture and nature.