Marajó Archipelago: A Unique Ecological Paradise

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Discover the Marajó Archipelago: a jewel of the Amazon

The Marajó Archipelago is located at the mouth of the Amazon River in the state of Pará, bordering the Amazon River and the Atlantic Ocean.

The archipelago is made up of some 3,000 islands, the largest of which, Marajó Island, covers some 40,100 square kilometres.

Arquipélago de Marajó — Marajó Archipelago

Flora and fauna

Descubra A Ilha de Marajó: O Paraíso da Amazônia03:42

The island of Marajó enchants visitors with its rich fauna and flora, spread over 12 municipalities.

Recognised as the largest river-sea island in the world, it is larger than both Belgium and the Netherlands.

Its quiet beaches are a true paradise, home to a wide variety of birds and fish.

Marajó is also famous for its açaí, the vibrant rhythms of carimbó and lundu, and its unique Marajoara pottery.

Geography

mapa do Arquipélago de Marajó — Map of the Marajó Archipelago

The eastern side of the island is a savannah-covered plain, while the western side is dominated by dense forests.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Amazon and Pará rivers, the island of Marajó is also home to the pororoca, an impressive phenomenon of giant waves created when the waters of the Amazon River meet the salty waters of the Atlantic Ocean, especially at high tide. This natural spectacle, which takes place from May to July, attracts surfers and the curious who want to see the magnificent waves.

Buffalo breeding

During the rainy season, which lasts from January to May, part of the territory of Marajó is flooded. This condition favours the raising of buffalo, making the island home to the largest herd in Brazil.

These animals are widely used for transport in both rural and urban areas, and buffalo meat is an essential ingredient in many of the region’s typical dishes.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 14/11/2013 · Updated on 29/06/2025