PARINTINS, AMAZON

Experience the folklore of the Amazon during a special festival held in the village of Parintins. A short drive from the pier brings us to the Caprichoso’s covered stadium, where a festive atmosphere has been created

This small village on Tupinambarana Island is situated in the largest river archipelago of the mid-Amazon. Parintins is two centuries old, rich in Indian culture – as celebrated with an annual ‘Boi Bumba’ festival. Experience the folklore of the Amazon during a special festival held in the village of Parintins. A short drive from the pier brings us to the Caprichoso’s covered stadium, where a festive atmosphere has been created. A local drink called ‘Caipirinha’ will be served as the air of excitement and anticipation rises. (Soft drinks and mineral water are also available.)Performers will dance and sing, celebrating the joy of life in a mesmerising display of revelry. The captivating story of the disputing families – the Cids and the Monteverdes – will unfold before us. Legend has it that these clans started a dispute, which manifested into a competition of two manmade bulls: the Cids created a black bull, Caprichoso (meaning ‘careful’), and the Monteverdes built a white bull, Garantido (meaning ‘guaranteed’). Each family was also armed with a ‘repentista’, a singer who would challenge the other to sing a better song or recite a better poem. There is a walk of approximately 25 metres (85 feet) from the gangway to where transportation awaits to take us to the show, and a little walking at the stadium. This really is an unmissable tour – a spectacular performance! Loud, rhythmic music can be expected. There may be an opportunity to purchase souvenirs.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR THE 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON