Itacoatiara, River port municipality in Amazonas, Brazil
Itacoatiara is a river port town on the Amazon's northern bank, sitting about 176 kilometers east of Manaus. It operates as a major transport hub where goods move between river steamers, cargo boats, and aircraft.
The town began in 1757 when residents relocated from an older settlement to its current location and originally called it Serpa. Over time, the name changed to reflect its growing role as a trading center on the Amazon.
The name comes from Tupi language and refers to painted stones found throughout the region. This connection to the natural landscape shapes how local people relate to their surroundings.
Visitors should prepare for hot, humid tropical weather and expect higher river levels during rainy season. Getting to town works best by small aircraft or by boat traveling downriver from Manaus.
The area holds ancient rock carvings left by earlier people and from which the city took its name. These petroglyphs quietly show how long humans have lived and worked along the Amazon.
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