Val de Cans International Airport

Val-de-Cans International Airport, also known as Júlio César Ribeiro Airport, is not merely a transport hub but a true "air gateway" to the mysterious Amazon. Located in the capital of the state of Pará, it immerses travelers in a tropical atmosphere from the very first minutes, thanks to its modern design filled with natural light and greenery. It is the ideal starting point for those planning to explore the jungle or enjoy the vibrant culture of northern Brazil.

Airport Features and Highlights:

One of the main highlights of Val-de-Cans is its unique panoramic terrace. This is a glazed and air-conditioned space adorned with live plants, offering a magnificent view of the runway. Here, you can comfortably watch aircraft without the excess noise, making the wait for your flight a pleasant pastime.

The airport is renowned for its convenient location: it is situated practically within the city limits, allowing you to reach the center of Belém and major hotels in just 20–30 minutes. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for comfort: there are relaxation areas, shops selling local souvenirs and Amazonian delicacies, as well as VIP lounges for those who value privacy.

The architecture of the complex deserves special attention. The futuristic lines of the building blend harmoniously with elements reminiscent of the proximity to the great river and forests. Spacious halls, convenient navigation, and a friendly atmosphere make arriving in Belém an easy and memorable start to a great journey.

• Official Website: To view flight schedules, services, and the latest news, visit the airport's official website at www.belem.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +55 (91) 3210-6000.
• Airport Address: Av. Júlio César, s/n - Val-de-Cans, Belém, State of Pará, 66115-970, Brazil.
• Email: For general inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the official website in the "Contacts" section.
• Social Media: You can follow airport updates on its official Instagram page: @belem.aero.
• Lost and Found (Achados e Perdidos): If you have left personal items in the terminal, contact the service via email: ap.bel@noa-airports.com.br or by phone: +55 (91) 3210-6343. Important: For issues regarding lost luggage, please contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: Primary support regarding terminal operations is provided by the information desk. For questions about tickets, schedule changes, or flight check-in, please contact your airline.

Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL) is located just 12 kilometers from the center of Belém, making the journey there quite quick and convenient. Travelers can choose the most suitable method to reach the terminal depending on their budget and comfort preferences, whether it be public transport or a taxi.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Several city bus routes run along major avenues, passing by the airport. Look for buses marked "Aeroporto" or those following Almirante Barroso Avenue. The trip from the center will take approximately 40-60 minutes and costs just a few Brazilian Reais. This method is excellent for travelers with light luggage, but bear in mind that buses can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis and Transfers are the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. The ride from the city center takes about 20-30 minutes in the absence of heavy traffic. You can use official taxi services with prepaid fixed rates at counters in the terminal or book a car via apps popular in Brazil, such as Uber or 99. This is the ideal choice for those traveling with large luggage or family.

If you prefer freedom of movement, you can use car rental services. Major international and local rental companies have counters at the airport. For those arriving in their own vehicle, Val-de-Cans Airport offers paid parking, featuring both short-term and long-term options.

Important Tip: Regardless of the chosen transport, always set off in advance. Traffic in Belém can be unpredictable, especially during morning and evening hours. By allocating extra time for the journey, you ensure a calm start to your trip.

Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL) in Belém boasts a modern and passenger-friendly structure. It consists of one main passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This organization significantly simplifies navigation and movement, sparing travelers the need to transfer between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. As with many modern airports, zones here are divided by levels. The Departure Zone is located on the upper floor. Here you will find airline check-in counters, pre-flight security screening, passport control, and the main departure lounge with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone occupies the lower floor, where passengers retrieve their luggage from conveyor belts and pass through customs control.

Since the terminal is unified, transitions between zones take place within a single building. Signs in Portuguese and English help you orient yourself easily. Navigation will not pose difficulties even for those visiting for the first time. The building contains everything needed for a comfortable wait: cafes, shops, ATMs, and currency exchange points.

The time required for formalities is usually short, as the airport is not among the busiest in Brazil. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive early: approximately 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without haste. For quick navigation, simply follow the signs for "Embarque" (Departure) or "Desembarque" (Arrival).

The history of Val-de-Cans International Airport - Júlio César Ribeiro (BEL) in Belém is a vivid example of how a strategic military facility can transform into a major civil aviation hub. Its story began at the height of World War II. The airfield was built in 1943 by the US Air Force in cooperation with the government of Brazil as part of a system of bases supporting the transatlantic air bridge for transporting aircraft and cargo to Africa and Europe.

After the war ended, in 1946, all infrastructure was officially transferred to the Brazilian Ministry of Aeronautics, and Val-de-Cans began its life as a civilian airport. For a long time, it developed gradually, serving domestic and some international flights. A key moment in its modern history was a massive reconstruction completed in 2001. The old terminal was replaced by a new, spacious, and modern building, which significantly increased capacity and passenger comfort levels. This project turned the airport into one of the most modern in the country at that time.

Among interesting facts from the airport's history, it is worth noting that it still retains its dual purpose. Adjacent to the civilian terminal lies a significant Brazilian Air Force Base, underscoring its strategic importance for the entire Amazon region. In 2023, airport management passed from the state company Infraero to the private consortium AENA, marking a new stage in its development aimed at further modernization and service quality improvement.

Val-de-Cans Airport offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait. Whether you are arriving, departing, or transferring, the terminal has everything to meet your needs.

For those wishing to have a snack or do some shopping, the airport features a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and lounges, where you can taste local cuisine as well as familiar international snacks. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, press, and unique handmade items that will serve as a wonderful reminder of your trip.

To stay connected, make use of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. If your gadget runs out of power, numerous charging stations for mobile devices are at your disposal. Financial matters can be easily resolved at bank branches and currency exchange points located within the airport building.

Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilize the VIP lounges, where one can relax, work, or enjoy snacks and beverages in a quiet atmosphere. For travelers with children, there are mother-and-child rooms, and passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance and special facilities for unimpeded movement through the terminal. A medical post is available in case of need.

If you need to work, the airport has facilities for business meetings, and for those requiring a full rest between flights, several hotels are located nearby. This makes Belém Airport a convenient hub for both tourists and business travelers.

At Val-de-Cans Airport, travelers will find a decent selection of establishments to grab a snack before departure or have a full lunch. The majority of cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the public zone (landside), before security control, so if time permits, it is best to refresh yourself there.

The main highlight of Belém airport is the opportunity to discover the exotic cuisine of the Amazon without leaving the terminal. Look for restaurants offering regional dishes. Be sure to try authentic açaí, which is served here in its traditional, unsweetened form with tapioca or fish dishes, or the warming soup tacacá. This is a unique gastronomic experience that sets the tone for your entire journey through the state of Pará.

For those who prefer more familiar flavors, the food court features establishments serving Brazilian and international cuisine: pizzerias, burger joints, and restaurants where you can order a "prato feito" — a set meal. After passing through security (airside), the selection becomes more modest and is mainly represented by small coffee shops and kiosks with sandwiches, pastries (definitely try the pão de queijo — cheese buns), and beverages. This is an excellent option for a quick snack right at the boarding gate.

Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city. A light snack with coffee will cost a moderate amount, while a full meal in a restaurant will be more expensive. Most establishments open early in the morning and operate until the last evening flights depart. Regarding special dietary needs, finding certified vegan or gluten-free meals might be challenging; however, many Brazilian dishes based on rice, beans, and cassava are naturally gluten-free, and fresh fruit salads and açaí are suitable for vegetarians.

To ensure your journey through Val-de-Cans Airport in Belém goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international flight. This will give you enough time in case of queues at check-in and security.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your mobile device. Keep your passport and other travel documents handy. The screening procedure is standard, but be prepared for potential additional checks, especially on international flights. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that flights taking off or landing in Belém often offer impressive views of the Amazon delta, so a window seat can provide unforgettable impressions.

In carry-on luggage, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited, as are any sharp or pointed objects. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent bag. Given the location in the Amazon, remember the strict rules regarding the export of plants, animals, and products made from them out of Brazil. Ensure your souvenirs do not violate customs regulations.

If you have a connection at Val-de-Cans Airport, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Leave enough time between flights, especially if a change of terminal (though unlikely here) or re-screening is required. When passing through customs control, follow the signs for the "Green" channel (if you have nothing to declare) or the "Red" channel.

In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Keep an eye on the departure boards and your airline's app for updates. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to request compensation later.