Why Tucuruí
Tucuruí is a municipality situated in the state of Pará, within the Northern region of Brazil. Its name originates from the Tupi language, combining the words for water and insects to mean river of ants or river of locusts. The town is widely recognized for housing the massive Tucuruí Dam, a major hydroelectric infrastructure project managed by Eletrobrás Eletronorte.
Historically, the local economy relied on agriculture, trade, and the extraction of Brazil nuts, which were originally transported using a regional railroad system. Over its six decades of development, the construction of the hydroelectric dam transformed the municipality by attracting large industries. Today, commerce and agriculture continue to sustain the area.
Visitors to the area can explore the dam's expansive reservoir, which ranks among the world's largest man-made lakes, reaching depths of 74.6 meters (245 feet) and stretching over 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles). The surrounding aquatic landscape features numerous islands and native Amazonian scenery. Popular activities on the lake include fishing for local species such as Cichla (Tucunaré) and Tambaqui. Within the town, the historic center retains older architecture alongside the Museum of the Extinct Railroad, which displays historical artifacts and photos. A restored train from the Brazil nut era is situated outside the Eletrobrás Eletronorte Cultural Center, an establishment that organizes guided tours inside the operational dam.
Local culture is highlighted by annual celebrations and distinct regional cuisine. The town hosts a well-known carnival celebration each February, followed by the Tucunaré Festival in June, which highlights traditional fish dishes. Due to the lake's abundant aquatic life, fish plays a prominent role in local dining. A notable dish is Peixe no Saco, where Cichla or Tambaqui is stuffed with herbs and spices, sealed in a waterproof bag with soy sauce, and roasted. Culinary traditions also draw from indigenous heritage, featuring dishes like maniçoba, vatapá, and tacacá—a hot broth containing tucupi, jambu, starch, and shrimp, traditionally consumed directly from a gourd using a toothpick for the solid ingredients.
Travelers accessing the municipality can utilize the local Tucuruí Airport, which is situated approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the city center and receives flights operated by Azul Brazilian Airlines.
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