Ilha de Marajó

Pará, Brazil

Ilha de Marajó, located in the state of Pará in northern Brazil, is the largest fluvio-marine island in the world, nestled at the confluence of the Amazon River and the Atlantic Ocean. Spanning approximately 40,100 square kilometers, it is comparable in size to Switzerland and forms the core of the Marajó Archipelago, which includes thousands of smaller islands.

The island is characterized by its flat terrain, vast wetlands, and a unique blend of ecosystems that include mangroves, savannas, and tropical forests. This ecological richness supports an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna, including the largest population of water buffalo in Brazil, which roam freely and have become a cultural symbol of the region.

Historically, Marajó was home to the Marajoara culture, a sophisticated pre-Columbian society known for its intricate ceramics and complex social organization, which flourished between 400 BC and 1600 AD. Today, remnants of this civilization can still be found in archaeological sites scattered across the island. The island’s population is spread across 16 municipalities, with Soure and Salvaterra being the most prominent and accessible to visitors.

These towns offer a glimpse into the island’s vibrant traditions, including festivals, artisanal crafts, and cuisine centered around buffalo meat and cheese. Marajó’s coastline is dotted with serene beaches like Praia do Pesqueiro and Praia da Barra Velha, where warm, calm waters and golden sands provide a tranquil escape. The island’s rhythm is shaped by the Amazon’s flood cycle, with distinct wet and dry seasons that dramatically alter the landscape.

During the rainy months, large portions of the island become submerged, creating a surreal, waterlogged world navigable by canoe. In the dry season, the land reemerges, revealing trails, pastures, and hidden cultural sites.