The destination that will transform your journey

Why visit Roraima?

Roraima is a unique destination in Brazil, blending ancient landscapes, vibrant indigenous culture, and thrilling ecotourism. It’s the only state entirely north of the Equator, where the cool Serra do Tepequém contrasts with the warmth of the capital, Boa Vista, creating diverse climates and breathtaking views. Covering 223,644 km², it surpasses countries like Belarus in size, yet maintains a low population density of just over 2 inhabitants/km²—ideal for those seeking solitude and untouched nature.

Nearly half the state comprises indigenous territory, offering rich cultural experiences among the Macuxi, Wapixana, Ingarikó, and Yanomami peoples. These sacred lands around the tepuis invite sustainable tourism, grounded in learning and mutual respect.

Main Tourist Attractions

Mount Roraima

Standing around 2,875 meters tall, Mount Roraima is an awe-inspiring tepui whose mesa harbors endemic flora—some carnivorous—alongside pseudokarst landscapes and spectacular rock formations like the Crystal Valley. The trek begins in São Francisco and requires 6–8 days of hiking through lunar-like terrain and across national borders, sleeping under the stars on the plateau. The Mount Roraima National Park, established in 1989, spans around 116,000 hectares and is jointly managed by ICMBio, Funai, and local indigenous communities.

Serra do Tepequém

Just 210 km from Boa Vista, Serra do Tepequém is ecotourism made easy. Its 1,022‑meter-high range features short trails leading to stunning waterfalls—Paiva, Sobral, Funil, and Barata—and scenic lookout points. Its indigenous-inspired name translates to “God of Fire,” reflecting the pleasant contrast between chilly mornings and warm afternoons. Visitors can enjoy local stone‑soap handicraft markets, as well as activities like rappelling, mountain biking, and climbing. Accommodations include campgrounds, rustic lodges, SESC facilities, and simple cabins.

Caracaranã Lake

Located in Normandia, about two hours from Boa Vista, this sandy‑beach lake stretches 5.8 km around and is shaded by cashew trees. Reopened to visitors in 2013 after indigenous land demarcation, entry costs around R$ 10 per day and R$ 5 per overnight stay per person. It’s perfect for sunbathing, relaxing in hammocks by the water, or basic camping, with local services for food and lodging nearby.

Viruá National Park

Distinct from other attractions, Viruá is a mosaic of savannas, campinaranas, blackwater forests, and flooded plains teeming with little‑explored Amazonian wildlife. Situated near Caracaraí, it’s ideal for birdwatching, short nature walks, photography, and educational visits.

Indigenous Cultural Experiences

Exploring indigenous communities involves meaningful exchanges and respect. In the Raposa Serra do Sol region, you can visit Macuxi and Ingarikó villages in places like Pacaraima, Raposa I, and Normandia to learn traditional crafts, witness rituals, and support the local economy—integral parts of responsible ethno‑tourism.

Other Highlights

• Mount Caburaí: the northernmost point of Brazil—a lesser‑known geographical gem.
• Pacaraima Rock Paintings: an archaeological site featuring 4,000‑year‑old rock art.
• Boa Vista: a city planned in the shape of a compass rose, vibrant with cultural activities, markets, and Venezuelan‑inspired cuisine, such as pepito.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Best time to visit

Roraima features a tropical humid climate, with heavy rains from April to August. The dry season, from December to March, is ideal for accessing tepuis and waterfalls more easily—although high‑elevation areas can see temperatures drop to around 10 °C.

How to get there

• By air: Regular flights to Boa Vista are available.
• By road: The BR‑174 connects Boa Vista to Manaus and Venezuela; BR‑401 leads to Caracaranã Lake.
• Mount Roraima: Travel to São Francisco (Uiramutã), stay in a simple lodge, and begin the trek from there.

Accommodation

Boa Vista offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses. In Tepequém, you’ll find lodges, campgrounds, SESC facilities, and cabin-style lodging. Normandia caters to visitors of Caracaranã Lake. For Mount Roraima, camping is essential, with trekking groups supplying food and gear.

Food and safety

Local cuisine features fish like tambaqui and pirarucu, the Macuxi dish damurida (a hearty soup), cuscuz, and Venezuelan-influenced pepito. Boa Vista’s restaurants and markets cater to various tastes. The city’s crime rate is moderate (around 24%), while indigenous areas are generally safe. Visitors are advised to be cautious of petty theft and avoid traveling alone in remote regions.

Essential precautions

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy hiking boots, and rain gear, especially for high-altitude areas. Hiring certified guides is crucial for safe trekking. Observe conservation rules: pack out your trash, avoid fires where prohibited, and respect signage in protected zones.

Suggested Itineraries

• 3 days (easy ecotourism):
  Day 1 – Explore Tepequém trails and waterfalls
  Day 2 – Relax at Caracaranã Lake
  Day 3 – Tour Boa Vista’s artisan markets and sample local dishes
• 5 days (adds cultural experience):
  Days 1–2 – Tepequém’s landscapes and waterfalls
  Day 3 – Visit indigenous communities near Normandia
  Day 4 – Leisure time at Caracaranã
  Day 5 – Return to Boa Vista for cultural immersion and performances
• 7 days (including Mount Roraima):
  Days 1–2 – Travel and acclimatization in São Francisco
  Days 3–6 – Trekking Mount Roraima with camp stays on the plateau
  Day 7 – Return to Boa Vista and rest

Sustainability and Responsible Tourism

Roraima’s tourism model emphasizes indigenous empowerment and environmental protection. Local guide services and travel agencies promote minimal-impact tourism. Mount Roraima National Park is co-managed by ICMBio and Funai. In Tepequém, cultural support for craftspeople and musicians strengthens community identity.

Responsible travelers follow rules, invest in local economies through indigenous products, and avoid unauthorized or under‑regulated trail use.

Inspiring Curiosities

• Mount Roraima served as inspiration for the floating rock in the animated film Up.
• Boa Vista is the only Brazilian capital located north of the Equator and was designed around a compass-rose layout.
• “Roraima” means “Green Mountain” in the Macuxi language; some interpret it also as “Mother of Winds” or “Cashew Mountain.”
• Indigenous peoples make up around 10% of the population, and many regional festivals celebrate Macuxi, Wapixana, and Ingarikó traditions.

Look Ahead: The Future of Tourism in Roraima

Exciting infrastructure projects are underway, including expanding the Tucuruí power grid and developing cross-border tourist routes connecting Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana. Scientific ecotourism initiatives are emerging, aimed at attracting curious, conscientious travelers, and culinary tourism is growing through local recipe innovation and cultural events in Boa Vista.

Final Thought: Roraima is Transformation

Visiting Roraima means encountering wild nature, ancestral heritage, and geological wonder. It’s an invitation to explore deep Brazil, where the silence of the highlands reverberates in your heart. Those who dream of adventure, living culture, and unforgettable landscapes should start planning now.

Will you answer the call? Begin planning your trip to Roraima—discover a Brazil few know but everyone should experience.