Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Macapá, Brazil! A City on the Amazon River Right on the Equator

Macapá is the capital of Amapá State, located in the southeastern part of northern Brazil. It sits on a small plain along the northern riverbed of the Amazon River, near the Atlantic estuary. The city has a population of approximately 370,000. The equator runs through the center of the city, and it has a tropical savanna climate with a dry winter season. The temperature remains relatively stable throughout the year, similar to the highs and lows of Japan's summer.
Within a 40 km radius of Macapá, the land distribution is approximately 55% forest, 38% seawater, 5% grassland, and 2% farmland, creating a true Amazon jungle atmosphere. This makes it a very wild place, perfect for sightseeing with an explorer’s spirit. Macapá is a hidden gem rarely mentioned in Japanese travel guidebooks, but here, we will introduce some of the best tourist attractions in this fascinating city!

1. Marco Zero

Marco Zero is the point where the equator passes, precisely at latitude 0° north and south. The site is marked with a line dividing the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, allowing geography enthusiasts to cross between them multiple times in an instant—an exciting experience for anyone fascinated by the Earth's geography.
Interestingly, at the equator, an egg can stand upright on a nail, water drains straight down without swirling, while in the Northern Hemisphere, it spirals counterclockwise, and in the Southern Hemisphere, it spirals clockwise. This makes Marco Zero a rare and fascinating place to witness Earth's natural phenomena.
The monument stands about 30 meters tall and features a circular hole at the top. At least twice a year, the sun aligns perfectly with this hole, marking the equinox when day and night are of equal length. If you're visiting Macapá, this is an absolute must-see attraction. Experience the wonders of the Earth at the Marco Zero Equatorial Monument!

2. Fortaleza de São José de Macapá

The Fortaleza de São José de Macapá was built in the 18th century by the Portuguese to defend against attacks from the French army coming from the north.
It is the largest fortress in Brazil, constructed using stones brought by ship from Portugal. The construction took 18 years, from 1764 to 1782. The well-preserved walls, which are approximately 4.5 meters thick, enclose barracks with numerous caves.
This historic fortress sits on the banks of the Amazon River, offering breathtaking views. Inside, visitors will find a tourist center, an art gallery, a conference room, and a concert hall. The Fortaleza de São José de Macapá is an essential part of Macapá's history and a must-visit attraction for travelers.

3. Parque do Forte

As its name suggests, Parque do Forte is a park built around the Fortaleza de São José de Macapá. It is a beloved green space among locals, known for its beauty.
The park features a walkway along the Amazon River, making it an ideal spot for walking, cycling, jogging, or simply enjoying the scenic views. Families with children, couples, and tourists visiting Macapá often come here to relax.
For a while, due to a lack of maintenance by the state government, the park had deteriorated into a rough and neglected area. However, recent budget allocations have allowed for restoration, bringing back its beauty. Now well-maintained, Parque do Forte has become a fantastic tourist attraction and a place of relaxation for visitors.

4. Museu Sacaca

The Museu Sacaca is an institute dedicated to preserving and showcasing the culture, science, folklore, and history of Macapá. In 1997, it was established by merging two museums: the Natural History Museum and the Medical Plant Museum. It includes a vast open-air exhibition area near the Train District in the southern part of Macapá.
This museum plays a crucial role in studying and sharing knowledge about the Amazon's folklore, nature, pharmacology, and way of life. It is an essential cultural institution in Macapá and an intriguing attraction for both Brazilian and international visitors interested in learning more about the Amazon region. If you want to explore the deep cultural heritage of the Amazon, this museum is a must-visit.

5. Igreja de São José de Macapá

The Igreja de São José de Macapá, completed in 1761, is the oldest building in Macapá. Its construction began in 1752, six years before the city itself was officially established. The church was built in the strict colonial style of the Jesuits.
Both the interior and exterior of the church are painted white, reflecting a simple yet classic Catholic aesthetic. The church remains active today, serving as a place of worship for the local community.
It is located in the heart of Macapá on São José Street, surrounded by department stores, banks, hotels, and theaters. It is a convenient stop for tourists taking a stroll through the city, making it a perfect spot to visit during the day.

◎ Summary of Tourist Attractions in Macapá

Macapá, a city located directly on the equator, offers a variety of fascinating tourist attractions.
Macapá International Airport is located about 3 km north of the city center in northern Brazil. Despite its name, the airport only serves domestic flights to Brasília and Belém. Traveling from Japan requires at least two flight transfers.
However, for travelers looking for something beyond typical tourist destinations, Macapá offers a wealth of unique attractions. If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this city is well worth a visit!

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Macapá, Brazil! A City on the Amazon River Right on the Equator