The Maracanã is a meandering river with a main channel that varies in depth in its lower reaches from 15 to 20 metres (49 to 66 ft).

[2] The river is lowest between September and October and highest between February and April.

[1] Santarém Novo is on the right bank of the river about 35 kilometres (22 mi) from its mouth on the Atlantic.

[3] The Chocoaré - Mato Grosso Extractive Reserve protects part of the right (east) shore of the Maracanã River.

[5] The area around the river has a relatively small population, with 38 people per square kilometre.