Boa Vista City Guide

Try local dishes like pirarucu de casaca and tacacá. International food is limited but growing. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but are scarce. Some late-night snack bars available.

Nightlife is modest with some bars and clubs near the city center and river. Live local music sometimes available.

Coffee culture is growing with traditional and some specialty cafes. Quality coffee is widely available.

Tipping is common. 10% service charge in restaurants is usual. Taxi tipping not required but rounding up is common. 10-15% for other services.

SIM cards are sold at Vivo, Claro, and TIM stores in malls. Registration requires ID or passport, sometimes a CPF tax ID.

Streets are generally clean with regular waste pickup. Central areas are well maintained.

Few 24/7 pharmacies on rotation, some gas station shops open. Late-night food options limited.

Supermarkets like Atacadão and Carrefour have limited but improving international products. Local markets are good for fresh produce. Hours are generally 8 AM to 9 PM.

Cards are accepted in supermarkets and larger stores, but cash is needed for small vendors and public transport.

ATMs are common in banks and shopping centers, including Banco do Brasil and Caixa Econômica Federal. International withdrawal fees can be high, so withdraw larger amounts less often.

Boa Vista has public and private schools, mostly Portuguese instruction. Few international schools available.

The digital nomad scene is very small, with few meetups or nomad-focused spaces.

Lots of green spaces like Parque Anauá and tree-lined avenues. Good for running and walks.

Good running routes include Orla Taumanan and Parque do Rio Branco. Safe during daylight.

Gyms include a popular chain and local facilities in various neighborhoods.

Tennis courts at private clubs; booking usually direct.

Padel courts rare but exist in some private facilities.

Yoga studios offer classes; English instructors uncommon.

Martial arts like BJJ and Muay Thai are offered. English-speaking instructors rare.

No skiing; tropical climate.

Kayaking and paddleboarding possible on Rio Branco during dry season; rentals limited.

No surfing; city is far from the ocean.

No diving; rivers not suitable for diving/snorkeling.

Public hospitals include Hospital Geral de Roraima; private option is Hospital da Unimed. English is limited; translation apps help. Pharmacies are widespread with self-service.

Tap water is treated but better to drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

There are playgrounds and parks like Parque Anauá and Orla Taumanan. Kid-friendly cafes are growing. Baby supplies sold at supermarkets.

LGBTQ+ rights are legal but community is less visible here. Acceptance varies; some discrimination risks exist.

Moderately pet-friendly with parks, vets, and pet stores. Pet-friendly accommodations limited but growing.