Overview
Porto Velho is the capital of Brazil's Rondônia state, born around 1910 with the construction of the Madeira-Mamoré railway. The city offers little conventional tourism but serves as a practical gateway to Amazon adventures.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Culture
Porto Velho has no colonial architecture—it's a young city (circa 1910) built around the Madeira-Mamoré railway. Don't expect old buildings or traditional Brazilian tourist scenes.
Food
The Sunday market (Feira Cai na Agua) starting at 05:00 offers the best local flavors: açaí with guaraná, tacacá, vatapá, and fresh caldo de cana.
Safety
Porto Velho has the dubious honor of being one of the most dangerous cities in Brazil. Travelers should exercise heightened vigilance, especially at night and in less-familiar areas.
Transport
Car rental from reputable agencies near the rodoviária costs R$100/day plus R$25 insurance. Local buses serve Candeias; everything else requires your own vehicle or a taxi.