lake · Cachoeira do Arari, PA
Lago Arari
The largest depression on Marajó Island, it is up to 18 km long and 7 km wide and is shared with the neighboring town of Santa Cruz do Arari. It is part of the Marajó Archipelago Environmental Protection Area, created in 1989.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lago Arari
Lago Arari is the largest lake on Marajó Island. It is in the center of the island, between the towns of Cachoeira do Arari and Santa Cruz do Arari, and is nearly 18 km long and up to 7 km wide. It is part of the Marajó Archipelago Environmental Protection Area, created in 1989.
The lake changes a lot over the year. In the rainy season, the water rises, floods the surrounding fields and the landscape becomes a vast mirror of water. In the dry season, it shrinks considerably, the water turns muddy and flooded fields and shallows appear where cattle graze.
Life around the lake revolves around fishing. Tamuatá, aracu, traíra and pescada are among the most common catches, and the region's communities are discussing a fishing agreement to keep the lake productive. In Vila do Jenipapo, in Santa Cruz do Arari, the houses are built on stilts at the water's edge.
For visitors, the outing is about taking in the flat, open landscape, the waterbirds and the fishermen at work, preferably on a boat trip with local residents. The lake area also holds archaeological sites of the Marajoara culture, such as Pacoval. It is a simple nature outing, with no tourist facilities, that calls for a tolerance for sun and boats.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
Half a day is enough for a boat trip on the lake and a stop at one of the waterside communities.
Best time
In the rainy season, in the first half of the year, when the lake is full and the fields are flooded. Set out early in the morning or late in the afternoon, for prettier light and less heat.
How to get there
The lake is in the center of Marajó Island, north of the town of Cachoeira do Arari, up the Rio Arari; the town of Santa Cruz do Arari sits on the lakeshore. There are boats from the Belém Waterway Terminal to Cachoeira do Arari and to Santa Cruz do Arari. On the lake, you get around by boat, with local boatmen and fishermen.
Tip
Arrange the trip in advance with a local boatman and bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and water: there is almost no shade or facilities on the lake.
A look at the place
Lago Arari 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 Lago Arari
How big is Lago Arari?
It is the largest lake on Marajó Island, nearly 18 km long and up to 7 km wide. Its size varies greatly between the wet and dry seasons.
Where is Lago Arari?
In the center of Marajó Island, in Pará, shared between Cachoeira do Arari and Santa Cruz do Arari. The town of Santa Cruz do Arari sits on its shore.
How can I visit Lago Arari?
By boat, with local boatmen and fishermen. There are no organized tourist facilities, so arrange the trip in advance.
When is the best time to go?
In the rainy season, in the first half of the year, when the lake is full. In the dry season it shrinks considerably and the water turns muddy.
How do I get to Lago Arari from Belém?
There are boats from the Belém Waterway Terminal to Cachoeira do Arari and Santa Cruz do Arari; from there, you tour the lake by boat.