10 Things to Do in Mercado Ver-o-Peso, Belém, Brazil
The Mercado Ver-o-Peso (or simply Ver-o-Peso) is a vibrant market located in the city of Belém, in the Brazilian state of Pará. It is the largest open-air market in Latin America and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Here, visitors can find a wide variety of items, from fresh produce to exotic Amazonian delicacies, as well as handmade crafts and souvenirs. Here are 10 things to do in Mercado Ver-o-Peso:
1. Sample Local Cuisine: The Mercado Ver-o-Peso is home to a variety of restaurants and food stalls, offering a wide range of cuisine from traditional Amazonian dishes to international fare. Sample some of the local delicacies, such as tacacá (a soup made with shrimp, jambu, a local herb, and tucupi, a spicy yellow sauce), acarajé (fried black-eyed pea fritters), and pato no tucupi (duck cooked in tucupi sauce).
2. Shop for Produce: The Mercado Ver-o-Peso is the perfect place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. The market has a wide selection of local produce, such as mangoes, papayas, bananas, and avocados. It is also a great place to buy exotic Amazonian fruits, such as cupuaçu, açaí, and bacuri.
3. Browse Handicrafts: The Mercado Ver-o-Peso is a great place to find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Browse the stalls for items such as hand-carved wooden bowls, jewelry made with Amazonian seeds, and colorful pottery.
4. Try Street Food: The Mercado Ver-o-Peso is a great place to sample some of the local street food. Try some of the popular dishes such as pastel (fried pastry filled with cheese and meat) and espetinho (skewers of grilled meat).
5. Visit the Fish Market: The Mercado Ver-o-Peso is home to an impressive fish market. Here, visitors can find a wide variety of fresh fish, such as pirarucu (a large Amazonian fish), tambaqui (a freshwater fish), and tucunaré (a type of peacock bass).
6. Explore the Street Markets: The Mercado Ver-o-Peso is surrounded by a number of smaller street markets. Here, visitors can find a variety of items, such as clothing, shoes, and souvenirs.
7. Enjoy a Boat Ride: Take a boat ride down the nearby rivers and canals to explore the Amazon rainforest. The boat rides offer a unique way to experience the beauty of the Amazon.
8. Visit the Museum of Natural History: Located in the center of the Mercado Ver-o-Peso, the Museum of Natural History offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Amazon.
9. Take a Tour: Take a guided tour of the Mercado Ver-o-Peso and the surrounding area. Tour guides will provide visitors with an in-depth look at the market and the local culture.
10. Have a Drink: After a long day of exploring the Mercado Ver-o-Peso, relax and have a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants in the area. Enjoy a cold beer or a caipirinha (the national cocktail of Brazil).
Whether you are looking for fresh produce, unique souvenirs, or a chance to experience the Amazon, the Mercado Ver-o-Peso is the perfect place to visit. With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and wide selection of items, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience.