Rio Araguari is known for its unique surf conditions, but it's not a top-tier spot anymore. Once celebrated for its incredible bore wave, the river has faced challenges due to dams and changes in the environment. Located in the Amapá state, the river stretches quite a distance from its source in the Tumucumaque mountains, about 350 km away. While it used to be a five-star surf destination, it has dropped down to one star in recent evaluations. However, there's still potential for adventurous surfers looking for a different vibe.
The surf here is quite specific. The optimal swell direction is north, and it can also handle swells coming from the southwest and southeast. You'll find that it breaks over sand, and the wave types you can expect are rivermouth waves that go left and right. This spot can handle swell sizes starting from around 2 ft (0.6 m), making it suitable mainly for intermediate surfers. The best time to surf is during low tide, with preferable wind coming from the south. Keep in mind that while the action isn’t super consistent, if the conditions align, it can be a fun session.
If you're up for a little adventure, there's news of a new bore wave in the Bailique Islands that you can reach by boat from Macapá. This opens up options for those wanting to experience surfing at the mouth of the Amazon, as long as you have a good guide. So, even though Rio Araguari might not be what it used to be, there are still ways to make the most of your surf trip in the region.