Combu Island
Escape to Combu Island for artisanal chocolate, riverfront dining, and a taste of the Amazon, just a boat ride from Belém.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Combu Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to Combu Island for artisanal chocolate, riverfront dining, and a taste of the Amazon, just a boat ride from Belém.
"The river breeze is quite soothing, it will make up for it."
Boat is your best friend 🚤
Expect to use boats for all island travel. Embrace the river breeze!
Chocolate factory visit 🍫
Don't miss Dona Nena's for a guided tour and delicious treats. Can get busy!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dona Nena's Chocolate Shoppe
Combu Island
Discover artisanal chocolates made from Amazonian cacao. English-speaking staff offer guided tours.
Riverfront Dining
Various locations along the river
Savor delicious meals at restaurants lining the river, enjoying the soothing Amazonian breeze.
Amazon Forest Experience
10-minute boat ride from Belém
Immerse yourself in the lush Amazon rainforest, just a short boat trip away from the mainland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Exploration by Boat
Beat the Weekend Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Places to visit near Belem?
Boat is your best friend 🚤
Expect to use boats for all island travel. Embrace the river breeze!
Chocolate factory visit 🍫
Don't miss Dona Nena's for a guided tour and delicious treats. Can get busy!
Small trips around Belem?
Small trips around Belem?
Dine further upriver 🍽️
Explore restaurants beyond the city-facing ones for a more authentic experience.
Swim in the river 🏊
Some spots, like Chalet, offer small swimming areas in the fast-flowing river.
Hi i'm from suriname, i'll be visiting belem next week what are fun things to do in belem?
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat is your best friend 🚤
Expect to use boats for all island travel. Embrace the river breeze!
Chocolate factory visit 🍫
Don't miss Dona Nena's for a guided tour and delicious treats. Can get busy!
Dine further upriver 🍽️
Explore restaurants beyond the city-facing ones for a more authentic experience.
Swim in the river 🏊
Some spots, like Chalet, offer small swimming areas in the fast-flowing river.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Combu Island is praised for its unique chocolate factory and scenic riverfront dining. Visitors enjoy the Amazonian atmosphere and the soothing river breeze. However, getting around solely by boat can be a challenge for some, especially those with limited Portuguese.
"If you’re a clueless solo gringo who barely speaks Portuguese like myself, you can’t expect to roam freely in the island on your legs. You take boats to go everywhere.
Most places are restaurants by the river. But the most unique place is the chocolate factory which I recommend you visit. They have English speaking employees who will guide you through the place. It can get busy, especially on weekends. Overall I’d recommend you visit. It’s a bit annoying you have to take a boat to go everywhere especially when communication is hard, but you’ll manage. The river breeze is quite soothing, it will make up for it."
Omar
"Experience the Amazon forest - a 10 minute boat ride from Belém. Recommend restaurants not facing the city but rather going further up the river to tour the island including Dona Nena's chocolate shoppe. We went to Chalet ... meals were great and there is a small swimming area in tbe fast flowing river."
Philip S
"Fb do f"
Romeu Caldas Caldas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Combu Island is a short 10-minute boat ride from Belém. You can find boat taxis or arrange transport from the waterfront. Be prepared for boat travel to be the primary mode of transport on the island itself.
Getting around can be challenging for solo travelers with limited Portuguese, as most transport is by boat. However, many establishments, like Dona Nena's chocolate factory, have English-speaking staff.
Boats are the primary mode of transportation between restaurants and attractions on Combu Island. Embrace the river travel experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no general admission tickets for Combu Island itself. You will pay for boat transport and any food or purchases at restaurants and shops.
While there might not be a direct entrance fee, it's customary to make a purchase or enjoy a tour that often involves tasting. It's best to check with Dona Nena's directly for current policies.
Operating hours can vary, especially for restaurants. The chocolate factory can get busy on weekends, suggesting it's open then. It's advisable to check specific opening times for restaurants you plan to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include dining at riverfront restaurants, visiting the unique chocolate factory, and experiencing the Amazon rainforest via boat. Some places offer swimming areas in the river.
Yes, some establishments like Chalet offer small swimming areas in the fast-flowing river. Always exercise caution when swimming in natural waterways.
The island offers a relaxing atmosphere with a soothing river breeze. It's a place to enjoy nature and local cuisine away from the city bustle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The highlight is definitely the artisanal chocolate made from local cacao. Riverfront restaurants offer various meals, often featuring fresh ingredients.
Dona Nena's chocolate shoppe is highly recommended. For meals, exploring restaurants further upriver from Belém is suggested for a more authentic experience. Chalet is mentioned for its meals and swimming area.
Dining is primarily at restaurants situated along the river, offering scenic views and a pleasant ambiance enhanced by the river breeze.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush Amazonian scenery, the unique riverfront restaurants, and the artisanal chocolate-making process. The boat journeys themselves offer great photographic moments.
Absolutely. The proximity to the Amazon rainforest and the riverine landscape provide ample opportunities for stunning nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many riverfront restaurants offer a relaxed setting where kids can enjoy meals with a view. Some locations, like Chalet, even have small swimming areas in the river, which can be a great way for children to cool off and have some fun. It's advisable to plan your day around boat schedules and consider the travel time between spots to keep younger ones comfortable.
Solo Travelers
Embrace the adventure! Many establishments, like the chocolate factory, have English-speaking staff who can assist you. Be prepared to rely on boat taxis for all your movements. The soothing river breeze and the unique atmosphere make it a worthwhile endeavor, even with potential communication hurdles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Combu Island: The Boat Experience
Arranging boat transport is straightforward, with options typically available from the Belém waterfront. Many local operators can ferry you to various points on the island. When exploring, you'll likely hop between different restaurants or attractions via these water taxis. Embrace the river breeze and the unique perspective it offers – it's a core part of the Combu Island experience.
While the boat-centric nature of Combu Island might present a slight challenge for some, it also contributes to its charm and exclusivity. It's a reminder that you're stepping into a different pace of life, deeply connected to the waterways. The soothing river breeze is often cited as a major plus, making the boat journeys a pleasant part of the overall visit.
A Taste of Combu: Chocolate and Riverfront Cuisine
Beyond chocolate, the island boasts numerous riverfront restaurants. These establishments offer a chance to savor local cuisine while enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the river. Reviews suggest venturing further upriver from Belém to discover some of the more authentic dining experiences. Places like Chalet are noted for their good meals and even offer a small swimming area in the river for a refreshing dip.
The dining experience on Combu Island is intrinsically linked to its natural setting. The gentle river breeze enhances the enjoyment of the food, creating a relaxed and memorable culinary journey. Whether you're indulging in decadent chocolate or enjoying a savory meal, the island's food scene is a significant draw.
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