Pedra do Guindaste
An iconic stone monument in the Amazon River, featuring a statue of São José, steeped in local legends and accessible by walking on the riverbed at lo...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Walk on riverbed
Pedra do Guindaste
Best Time
Walk on riverbed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic stone monument in the Amazon River, featuring a statue of São José, steeped in local legends and accessible by walking on the riverbed at low tide.
"Walk on the riverbed to get closer to the statue and appreciate the beauty of the Amazon."
🚶♀️ Walk during low tide
Access the stone by walking on the riverbed when the tide is low for a unique experience.
📸 Capture stunning photos
Visit during the day for the best light and views of the statue and surrounding river.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The São José Statue
On top of the concrete pedestal
A striking statue of São José, Macapá's patron saint, blessing the Amazon River.
The Riverbed Walk
Rio Amazonas
During low tide, walk across the exposed riverbed for a unique perspective and closer views.
Historical Significance
Rio Amazonas
Once a target for soldiers, now a symbol of Macapá's rich history and culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Access
Understand the Legends
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk during low tide
Access the stone by walking on the riverbed when the tide is low for a unique experience.
📸 Capture stunning photos
Visit during the day for the best light and views of the statue and surrounding river.
⚠️ Avoid nighttime visits
For safety reasons, it's not recommended to visit Pedra do Guindaste after dark.
🗺️ Check tide charts
Crucial for planning your visit to walk on the riverbed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk during low tide
Access the stone by walking on the riverbed when the tide is low for a unique experience.
📸 Capture stunning photos
Visit during the day for the best light and views of the statue and surrounding river.
⚠️ Avoid nighttime visits
For safety reasons, it's not recommended to visit Pedra do Guindaste after dark.
🗺️ Check tide charts
Crucial for planning your visit to walk on the riverbed.
👂 Listen to local legends
The stone is surrounded by fascinating myths and stories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Pedra do Guindaste for its unique setting and the opportunity to walk on the riverbed during low tide. The São José statue is a notable feature, and the historical and legendary aspects add to its charm. However, access can be tide-dependent, and nighttime visits are discouraged for safety.
"Beautiful details in an already stunning environment. Visit during the day to truly appreciate it. It’s in the river with no path leading directly to it. You might be able to access it during low tide, but we visited at night, so we couldn’t see it as well as we’d have liked!"
Lauro Portada
"Ao lado do Trapiche Eliezer Levy . Com a redução do nível do Rio/Maré é possível caminhar sobre o fundo do Rio a partir de uma escada de pedra no início do pier até a Pedra do Guindaste. O material do fundo é muito fino e escuro afundando em alguns pontos, tornando a caminhada mais divertida. Não acessível para cadeirantes, de graça e não recomendável a noite por segurança."
Sementes Pessoais
"A Pedra do Guindaste é um monumento localizado em frente à cidade de Macapá, ao lado do Trapiche Eliezer Levy, dentro do Rio Amazonas. No século passado, ela teve como finalidade servir de alvo aos exercícios de tiro dos soldados, ao lado norte da Fortaleza de São José de Macapá.Existem lendas em torno da “Pedra do Guindaste”, que ao longo dos tempos vêm servindo de inspiração a muitos poetas e pintores regionais. Uma delas é contada pelos moradores da antiga rua da praia e igarapé das mulheres, que afirmam existir uma cobra grande, com dimensões não calculadas, que na “maré de reponta”- ou seja, quando a água do rio não está na cheia e nem na vazante -, sai dali para tomar água, de maneira que a mesma nunca conseguiu cobrir a pedra. Se por ventura, alguma autoridade tiver a infelicidade de mandar retirar a pedra do rio, a água do amazonas subirá tanto que Macapá toda irá para o fundo.Um dia colocaram a imagem de São José, padroeiro de Macapá, em cima da pedra. Pouco tempo depois um navio chocou-se com ela destruindo-a. No lugar foi construído um pedestal de concreto para São José, colocado de costas para a cidade, mas abençoando todos que aqui chegam pelo majestoso rio Amazonas.
A imagem do santo padroeiro é uma obra de arte do escultor português Antônio Pereira da Costa. Ele também esculpiu os bustos de Tiradentes (na Polícia Militar) e Coaracy Nunes (no aeroporto) e os leões do Fórum de Macapá (atual sede da OAB)."
Alan Silva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pedra do Guindaste is located in the Rio Amazonas, in front of Macapá, next to the Trapiche Eliezer Levy. You can see it from the shore, and during low tide, it's possible to walk on the riverbed to get closer.
While it's in the river, direct boat access to the stone itself might be limited. The nearby Trapiche Eliezer Levy serves as a docking point for boats.
Yes, during low tide, you can walk on the exposed riverbed from the pier. Be aware that the ground can be soft and muddy in some spots.
The best views are from the shore or by walking to it during low tide. Daytime visits offer the best photographic opportunities.
Parking is available near the Trapiche Eliezer Levy, which is adjacent to the monument.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Pedra do Guindaste is free of charge.
There are no official opening hours as it's a natural monument in the river. However, daytime visits are highly recommended for safety and visibility.
It's best accessed during low tide. Visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns.
The riverbed walk is not accessible for wheelchairs.
While it's in the river, swimming directly around the monument might not be advisable due to currents and boat traffic. The focus is on viewing and the riverbed walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Daytime, especially during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon), offers the best lighting for capturing the statue and the vastness of the Rio Amazonas. 
Yes, the shore offers a good vantage point, and the nearby Trapiche Eliezer Levy provides elevated perspectives.
During low tide, you can walk on the riverbed to get quite close to the base of the monument for unique photos.
You can capture wide shots of the statue against the Amazon River, close-ups of the statue, and shots of people walking on the riverbed.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
🎫 📜 History & Legends
Originally a natural stone, it was used as a target for soldiers in the past. Later, a statue of São José was placed on a concrete pedestal built after the original stone was damaged.
One prominent legend speaks of a giant serpent that emerges from the river during specific tides. Another legend suggests that if the stone is removed, Macapá would be submerged. +1
São José is the patron saint of Macapá. His statue was placed on the monument to bless the city and its visitors arriving via the Amazon River.
No, it was a natural stone that served various purposes, including as a mooring point for boats before the Trapiche was built, and later as a military target.
The Trapiche Eliezer Levy is a pier located next to Pedra do Guindaste and historically served as a mooring point for boats, replacing the original function of the stone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Visiting during the day is best for visibility and safety. The nearby Trapiche Eliezer Levy also provides a safe area to walk and observe the river. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly at the stone might be limited. It's a great spot for educational fun and memorable photos.
📸 Photographers
+1For unique perspectives, plan your visit around low tide to capture the riverbed walk. The Trapiche Eliezer Levy also provides elevated angles. Consider wide-angle lenses for the expansive river views and telephoto lenses for details of the statue. Drone photography can offer breathtaking aerial views, but ensure you comply with local regulations.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
Embrace the local legends that add an element of mystery to your exploration. While the walk is free and accessible during specific times, it's not suitable for those with mobility challenges. It's an experience that connects you directly with the powerful forces of nature in the Amazon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystique of Pedra do Guindaste: History and Legends
The stone's significance is amplified by the captivating legends that surround it. One of the most enduring tales speaks of a colossal serpent dwelling in the Amazon's depths, said to emerge during specific tidal phases. Another myth warns that the removal of the stone would lead to catastrophic flooding, submerging the entire city of Macapá. These stories, passed down through generations, add a layer of mystique and local folklore to the site.
In a significant cultural and religious gesture, the image of São José, the patron saint of Macapá, was placed atop a concrete pedestal built on the stone. This act symbolizes protection and blessing for the city and all who navigate the mighty Amazon. The statue, a work of art itself, faces the river, offering a constant benediction to those arriving and departing.
+1Experiencing Pedra do Guindaste: Practical Tips for Visitors
For photography enthusiasts, the daytime offers the best conditions. The interplay of light on the water and the statue creates stunning visual opportunities. Consider visiting during the golden hours for dramatic shots. The nearby Trapiche Eliezer Levy also provides excellent vantage points for capturing the monument and the expansive Amazon River.
+1It's crucial to note that while the riverbed walk is an adventure, it's not accessible for individuals with mobility issues. Furthermore, for safety reasons, visiting Pedra do Guindaste at night is strongly discouraged. The focus should be on appreciating the monument during daylight hours and understanding its historical and legendary context.
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