island · Belém, PA
Ilha do Combu
Fifteen minutes by boat from downtown, an island of forest and stilt houses with riverside restaurants and artisan chocolate making. Having lunch there with your feet almost in the water is a must.
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 do Combu
Ilha do Combu is across the Guamá River from Belém. It is one of the islands closest to the city and the most popular with anyone who wants to see the riverside Amazon without leaving the urban itinerary. The boat crossing is short, and in a few minutes the landscape of buildings gives way to forest.
The island is a state Environmental Protection Area, created in 1997. It is covered by floodplain forest, which floods with the tide, and cut by channels and igarapés (creeks). Riverside families live in stilt houses at the water's edge and make their living from açaí, cacao, fishing and, increasingly, tourism.
The most common outing is lunch at one of the riverside restaurants, with fish and dishes from Pará, and a swim in the river. You can also visit the artisan production of chocolate made from the island's cacao, walk short forest trails and take boat rides through the creeks, seeing the communities' daily life up close.
The outing is relaxed and suitable for all ages. Boarding and landing require stepping into small boats and onto wooden piers, which can be hard for people with limited mobility. The trails can be muddy, especially in the rainy season.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day is enough to cross, have lunch, swim in the river and see the chocolate making; with a boat ride through the creeks and a trail, allow the whole day.
Best time
In the less rainy period, between July and November, the trails are drier and the sky clearer. Arrive in the late morning to have a leisurely lunch and enjoy the river before the afternoon rains; weekends are much busier.
How to get there
Boats to Combu leave from Praça Princesa Isabel, in the Condor neighborhood, on the Guamá River waterfront, about 5 km from downtown, reached by car, taxi, ride-hailing app or bus. The crossing takes a few minutes. Agencies also run the trip from other points on the waterfront.
Tip
Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a swimsuit and cash for the crossing. Agree on the return time with the boatman before you get off.
A look at the place
Ilha do Combu 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 do Combu
How do I get to Ilha do Combu?
By boat. Boats leave from Praça Princesa Isabel, in the Condor neighborhood of Belém, and the crossing of the Guamá River takes a few minutes.
How long should I spend on Ilha do Combu?
Half a day is enough to have lunch, swim in the river and visit the chocolate making. With a trail and a boat ride through the creeks, it is worth the whole day.
Can you swim in the river at Combu?
Yes. Many visitors swim in the river in front of the restaurants and in the creeks. Wear a swimsuit and respect the current and the tide.
What is there to do on Ilha do Combu?
Have lunch by the river, see the artisan chocolate making, hike through the forest, take a boat ride through the creeks and watch the life of the riverside communities.
Do I need a guide to go to Combu?
No. You can go on your own by boat. Agencies offer guided tours if you prefer to have everything arranged.