Cutias is dominated by the Araguari River and its tributaries, which partially submerges the area for nearly half the year.

It is very flat, with the highest point reaching only 3 metres (9.8 ft) above sea level.

[2][3] The economy is based on maize and manioc production, raising livestock, and fishing.

[5] Cutias do Araguari is the largest exporter of pirarucú (arapaima) in Brazil, an endangered fish noted for its boneless steaks.

[2][3] The town became known during the pororoca craze which attracted surfers to the Araguari River which has large tidal bores.