Belem

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From São Luis a thirteen hour bus took us to Belem. It really does have the feel of the oldest Amazon port.

We had a cool time in Belem, we visited the beautiful botanical gardens where they have a large amount of animals - some live in cages (which we didnt like) , most didnt (which is much better) . It was also where we saw the peixe-boi (Amazonian manatee) a weird river animal (and very rarely seen). We also managed to see a 3 toed sloth - having never seen one before it was a treat - they really do move in slow motion ..

Belem also recently converted its docks into a really snazzy waterside place , with loads of restaurants and cafes , live music and a generally good atmosphere.

All in all - a very cool city - and well worth the visit. But of course going there is only a stop over to get out onto the Amazon river - but thats the next diary ..

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