Macapa, Brazil

Macapa is the capital of the state of Amapá in Brazil, on the Amazon River. The city lies exactly on the Equator, at 0° N, and hosts a monument to this, known as Marco Zero ("Zero Mark"). It is a stopover for migrating birds and is home to a rich variety of fauna.

Macapá retains some of the history of the region in its monuments. One of these is Sao Jose Fort, at the entrance to the city. Amapa's history can also be seen in the Church of Sao Jose de Macapá, which dates from 1761. It is the oldest monument in the city and is built in the sternest colonial style of the Jesuits. At the Casa do Artesão ceramics coated in manganese and indigenous art can be purchased as souvenirs.

Things to see and do

* Sao Jose fortress museum
* Church of Sao Jose de Macapá
* Casa do Artesão – purchase ceramics and indigenous art
* Marco Zero monument
* Spa Araxa

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Real (R$) (BRL)
Language – Portuguese
Population – 380,000 approx
Land Area – 6,562 km²
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style
Time – GMT minus three hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 55

Transport Links – The city is served by the Macapá International Airport; most flights connect in Belem.

Macapa is also accessible by boat. Boats can take you to Belém, Santarem and Manaus, among other smaller destinations.

There are no through roads to or from Macapa.