São Gabriel da Cachoeira is known for its rich indigenous culture, the city is home to more than 20 different ethnicities, which makes it one of the most culturally diverse places in the country. Furthermore, the municipality offers exuberant nature, with rivers, river beaches, mountains, mountains, waterfalls and a still preserved Amazon rainforest. With so many attractions, the city is a true treasure for those looking for outdoor adventures and immersion in a rich and diverse culture. In this article, we will explore the main tourist attractions and activities to do in São Gabriel da Cachoeira, showing everything this incredible city has to offer.
Where is São Gabriel da Cachoeira
The fascinating city of São Gabriel da Cachoeira is located in the northwest region of the state of Amazonas. The city is located close to the border with Colombia and Venezuela, which makes it a strategic point for those who want to explore the region and get to know different cultures and landscapes.
São Gabriel da Cachoeira is approximately 850 km from the capital Manaus, state of Amazonas. The city has around 45 thousand inhabitants and is known for being home to twenty-three indigenous ethnicities, mainly the Tucanos, Yanomami (Yanomami) and Baniwas, who live in the Upper Rio Negro. These communities have a rich and diverse culture, with unique languages, customs and traditions, which makes São Gabriel da Cachoeira the most indigenous city in Brazil.
Things to do in São Gabriel da Cachoeira – Discover the main Tourist Attractions
Pico da Neblina National Park
Venture into Pico da Neblina National Park and reach the highest point in Brazil, guided by the Yanomami people on a trip estimated at 15 days (round trip). Located in São Gabriel da Cachoeira, in the Northwest Amazon, Pico da Neblina is a unique experience for ecotourism lovers who seek challenges and contact with nature. With luck, visitors will be able to see wild animals and plants unique to the region, as well as learn Yanomami words and songs and hear their stories. Prepare yourself physically and enjoy this unique adventure!
Morro dos Seis Lagos State Biological Reserve
The Morro dos Seis Lagos State Biological Reserve is a place of singular beauty, where water mirrors of different colors impress visitors. The phenomenon occurs due to the concentration of different types of ores in the region, but the extraction of these resources in indigenous territory is prohibited. Access to the reserve is by boat, sailing through the streams. The fauna and flora are exuberant, but the six lakes are the biggest attraction, perfect for photos and relaxation. Ecotourism is little explored, but hiring a guide is ideal for exploring the place. The indigenous people offer boat trips around the reserve.
Bela Adormecida Mountain Range – Serra da Bela Adormecida (Sleeping Beauty Mountain) –
Serra da Bela Adormecida, also known as Serra do Curicuriari, is a group of mountains shaped like a sleeping woman. Seen from different angles of São Gabriel da Cachoeira, the mountains enchant with their beauty and curiosity. Although the foot of the mountain is located in an indigenous area and entry is prohibited, it is possible to hike and visit waterfalls around it. The most spectacular view is from Morro da Fortaleza.
Praia Grande Beach
Praia Grande is a treasure of Rio Negro. During the dry period, between September and January, a 500-meter strip of white sand emerges from the waters and forms this river beach. The waters are cold and have a strong current, but the beauty of the place makes up for it. It’s the perfect place to rest on the sand, dive in the river, practice water sports and connect with nature.
São Gabriel da Cachoeira Beach
São Gabriel da Cachoeira Beach is also bathed by the Rio Negro, with soft white sand. It is an ideal place for sports, leisure and refreshing river baths. The kiosks with snacks and drinks near the beach are ideal for enjoying a sunny day in comfort. Furthermore, the city’s waterfront offers a beautiful setting for hiking, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Boa Esperança Hill (Morro da Boa Esperança)
Morro da Boa Esperança is a place that attracts tourists and locals for a two-hour walk there and back. In addition to being a place to relax the mind, it is common to carry out religious pilgrimages, as there is an image of a saint at the top of the hill. The Morro is located in the center of the city and has several trails through the primary forest, in addition to the presence of caves and springs around it.
Cucuí Hill (Morro do Cucuí)
Morro do Cucuí, a natural monument on the border between Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, is an unmissable destination for visitors to the Cucuí district in São Gabriel da Cachoeira. At 462 meters (287 mile) high, it is possible to see the two highest peaks in Brazil, Pico da Neblina and Pico 31 de Março, in the distance. To climb, visitors need to obtain authorization at Fort Chaparo, located on the Venezuelan side. It is a unique experience for those who love adventure and stunning views.
Federation of Indigenous Organizations of the Upper Rio Negro (FOIRN)
The Federation of Indigenous Organizations of Alto Rio Negro (FOIRN) is a space responsible for producing a rich craftsmanship admired in Brazil and abroad. At the FOIRN headquarters, you can find original pieces, such as straw baskets, hammocks and utensils, as well as publications and historical photos about the region’s indigenous peoples. The visit is a unique opportunity to get to know the culture and traditions of the original people of the Upper Rio Negro up close.
For more information access https://foirn.org.br/
Visit indigenous villages
São Gabriel da Cachoeira is home to 23 indigenous ethnicities and many villages can be visited with authorization from Funai. The trips are made on flying boats (small, fast boats) and last from six to 12 hours, providing an experience in a different culture. The richness of cultural exchange lies in learning how to relate to nature, beliefs and wisdom transmitted orally. It is possible to follow the production of handcrafted objects, try typical foods and learn from the original people.
How to get to São Gabriel da Cachoeira
To get to São Gabriel da Cachoeira it is necessary to travel by plane or by river such as speedboats or boats along the Rio Negro leaving from Manaus, which is 850 km from São Gabriel da Cachoeira.
How to get from Manaus São Gabriel da Cachoeira by boat or speedboat
If you are planning a trip from Manaus to São Gabriel da Cachoeira, there are two transport options by water: express boat or boat. The express boats are covered and accommodate up to 100 passengers. Three companies that offer this service are Tanaka, Genesis and Lady Luiza.
A ticket for the express boat costs around R$480 and the trip takes between 24 and 26 hours. The boat is a longer option, taking more than 3 days. There are two accommodation options: a cabin with air conditioning, double bed, mini-television and minibar, for R$1000 for two people; or on the hammock, where passengers take their own hammock and food is already included, for R$300.
The journey ends at the Port of Camanaus, and from there, it is necessary to travel another 24 km by car, taxi or van along a paved and somewhat precarious road until reaching the final destination.
How to get from Manaus to São Gabriel da Cachoeira by plane
Arriving in São Gabriel da Cachoeira by plane is the fastest and most practical option. The city has a regional airport that receives flights from Manaus operated by the companies Azul and MAP, with a journey duration of approximately 2 hours. Air tickets have an average price of R$480, which may vary depending on the time of year and seat availability. In addition to being faster, traveling by plane is also more comfortable, especially for those who don’t like long journeys over land or water.
Where to Stay in São Gabriel da Cachoeira
- Bawary Guest House (97) 99141-6445 / https://pousadabawary.com.br/
- Benjamin Guest House (97) 98400-4160
- HTS (97) 3471-1293
- Elite Flat Hotel (97) 98439-2128
- DEUS ME DEU Hotel (92) 98111-0605
When to visit São Gabriel da Cachoeira
The ideal months to visit São Gabriel da Cachoeira are August and September. During this period, the temperature is hot and there is little rainfall.
How many days to stay in São Gabriel da Cachoeira
It is recommended to stay at least 7 days, as the journey to the destination is long and visits to attractions are long and distant.
Conclusion
São Gabriel da Cachoeira is a unique city, rich in indigenous culture and history, as well as having incomparable natural beauty. With several activity options for travelers, such as trails, boat trips and visits to indigenous villages, it is an unmissable destination for those looking for an authentic experience in the Amazon. Furthermore, the city has a rich and diverse gastronomy, with typical local dishes that are worth trying.
