island · Ananindeua, PA
Ilha de João Pilatos
One of the municipality's river islands, about 40 minutes by boat from the waterfront. A trail of almost 3 km through preserved forest links the Nova Esperança and Bela Vista communities.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Ilha de João Pilatos
Ilha de João Pilatos is one of the largest and best-known islands of Ananindeua, in the island part of the municipality, surrounded by rivers and channels of the Belém Metropolitan Region. It is covered by Amazon forest and home to riverside communities such as Nova Esperança, Bela Vista and Igarapé Grande.
Life on the island follows the rhythm of the river. Residents live from fishing and açaí, which is picked in the forest and blended on the spot. It is common to try açaí with fried fish, manioc flour and salted shrimp.
The main outing is the trail of almost 3 km through the forest, linking the Nova Esperança and Bela Vista communities and passing stretches of preserved forest. The boat crossing is already part of the experience, between banks of dense forest. On the riverbank, a small beach offers a swim in calm, cool water.
The island still has few tourist facilities. It is an outing for anyone who enjoys nature and getting to know the riverside way of life, without expecting comfort. The trail calls for stamina to walk in the heat on dirt ground.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day to a full day, including the crossing, the trail and a meal.
Best time
In the morning, to hike the trail before the strongest heat; in the less rainy season, from July to November, the paths are drier.
How to get there
Access is by boat only. The small boats known as rabetas leave from Porto do Surdo, on Rua Beira Mar, in the Curuçambá neighborhood of Ananindeua, and go to the Nova Esperança community.
Tip
Go with someone from the community or a local guide for the trail, and bring insect repellent, water, sunscreen and shoes that can get wet.
A look at the place
Ilha de João Pilatos in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ilha de João Pilatos
How do I get to Ilha de João Pilatos?
Only by boat. The rabetas (small motorboats) leave from Porto do Surdo, on Rua Beira Mar, in Curuçambá, Ananindeua, and go to the Nova Esperança community.
Do you have to pay for the crossing?
Yes, the rabeta crossing is paid per leg.
What is the trail on Ilha de João Pilatos like?
It is almost 3 km through the forest and links the Nova Esperança and Bela Vista communities. It calls for stamina to walk in the heat.
Can you swim in the river on the island?
Yes. There is a small beach on the riverbank, with calm water.
Does the island have tourist facilities?
Few. It is a rustic outing focused on nature and riverside life. Bring water, insect repellent and sunscreen.