Central Maranhão Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and cultural experiences in Central Maranhão, Brazil. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and travel tips.


Introduction to Central Maranhão

Located in the northeast region of Brazil, Central Maranhão is a destination that promises to enchant visitors with its rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. The region is famous for its vibrant traditional festivals, colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural wonders that provide outdoor adventure opportunities for adventurous travelers. With this guide, you will discover the top attractions, activities, food, and cultural experiences that make Central Maranhão a must-see destination in Brazil.

List of Places to Visit in Central Maranhão

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

History and culture aficionados will love exploring the many treasures of Central Maranhão. The region boasts a rich colonial heritage with an array of well-preserved historical landmarks and museums. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Central Maranhão:

  • São Luís Historic Center: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, São Luís Historic Center is known for its well-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
  • Casa das Minas: Located in São Luís, Casa das Minas is a former Afro-Brazilian religious temple that now houses a fascinating museum honoring the African roots of Brazil.
  • Crôa do Goré-Mandu River Delta: A natural wonder that spans over 250,000 hectares, the Crôa do Goré-Mandu River Delta is a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its mesmerizing blue waters, mangrove forests, and sandbars, this region is a top choice for boat tours, kayaking, and kite surfing.

Natural Attractions of Central Maranhão: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Central Maranhão is a nature lover’s paradise with a diverse range of landscapes that showcase the region’s unique biodiversity. Here are some of the best natural attractions in Central Maranhão:

  • Parque Nacional das Lençóis Maranhenses: One of the most iconic destinations in all of Brazil, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a true natural wonder. The park features a massive expanse of white sand dunes that stretch for miles and are punctuated by crystal-clear lagoons.
  • Chapada das Mesas National Park: This park is known for its dramatic canyons, crystal-clear rivers, and majestic waterfalls.
  • Pedra Caída State Park: Located in the municipality of Carolina, Pedra Caída State Park is a fantastic destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, rappelling, canyoning, and rock climbing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Maranhão

Central Maranhão offers numerous hiking and biking trails that provide outdoor enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of the region. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Central Maranhão:

  • Caminho de São Tiago: This historic trail was used by Portuguese colonizers during the early days of the settlement of Brazil. Today, it is a popular trail for hikers and bikers alike.
  • Serra da Mesa: This mountain range offers picturesque hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Parque Nacional das Chapada das Mesas: The park features numerous hiking routes that lead to spectacular viewpoints, waterfalls, and canyons.

Best Things to Do in Central Maranhão: Activities and Tours

Central Maranhão has something for everyone, from adventure activities to cultural experiences and more. Here are some of the top things to do in Central Maranhão:

  • Experience the traditional São João festival: One of the most famous festivals in Brazil, São João is a celebration of the winter solstice and is known for its lively music, dance, and traditional food.
  • Take a boat tour of the Crôa do Goré-Mandu River Delta: A boat tour of the delta is a must-do activity in Central Maranhão. Visitors can explore the many small islands and sandbars in the region and take in the stunning natural beauty of the delta.
  • Visit the historic São Luís Aqueduct: This colonial aqueduct is an iconic landmark in São Luís and provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s Portuguese colonial history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Maranhão

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Central Maranhão:

Day 1: Explore the historic São Luís Historic Center and learn about the region’s colonial heritage. Day 2: Take a boat tour of the Crôa do Goré-Mandu River Delta. Day 3-4: Visit the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and enjoy hiking and swimming in the lagoons. Day 5: Explore the Pedra Caída State Park and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, canyoning, and rappelling. Day 6: Visit the Chapada das Mesas National Park. Day 7: Experience the traditional São João festival and indulge in local food and drink.

Food and Drink Scene of Central Maranhão

Must-Try Dishes

Central Maranhão is known for its vibrant culinary scene that showcases a fusion of indigenous, African, and Portuguese flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Central Maranhão:

  • Arroz de Cuxá: A dish made with rice, toasted cashews, and a savory herb sauce made from the cuxá leaf.
  • Guaraná Jesus: A bright pink soft drink, which is flavored with guaraná and is a popular drink in the region.
  • Tiquira: A potent liquor made from cassava roots that is a specialty of Central Maranhão.

Local Beverages

Central Maranhão boasts a rich tradition of producing artisanal beverages that are popular throughout Brazil. Here are some of the most popular local beverages in Central Maranhão:

  • Cachaça: A distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice that is used in many Brazilian cocktails.
  • Cupuaçu Juice: A refreshing fruit juice made from the cupuaçu fruit that is a popular drink throughout Brazil.

Where to Stay in Central Maranhão: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Maranhão has a wide range of accommodation options for every budget and travel style. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs. Here are some of the top accommodation options in Central Maranhão:

  • Grand São Luís Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the heart of São Luís, this hotel offers stunning views of the city and a top-notch spa.
  • Pousada do Lajes: A comfortable and affordable guesthouse located in Barreirinhas, this property features a beautiful outdoor pool and is in close proximity to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
  • HI Hostel São Luís: A budget-friendly hostel located in São Luís, this property offers basic dorm and private rooms and is a great choice for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Central Maranhão: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Central Maranhão is a great destination for souvenir shopping, and visitors will find a range of local products that make for great keepsakes. Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products to bring home from Central Maranhão:

  • Handicrafts: Central Maranhão is renowned for its beautiful handicrafts, including pottery, basketry, and carved wood crafts.
  • Cachaça: Central Maranhão produces some of the best cachaça in Brazil, making for a great souvenir or gift.
  • Lençóis Maranhenses Sand: Visitors can take home a small vial of sand from the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park as a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Maranhão

The people of Central Maranhão are known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors will find a welcoming community that is proud of its cultural heritage. Here are some tips to keep in mind to respect local customs and traditions:

  • Dress modestly: It is appropriate to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional festivals.
  • Greet people properly: When meeting locals, it is customary to greet them with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
  • Learn some Portuguese: While many people in Central Maranhão speak English, learning some basic Portuguese phrases can go a long way in showing appreciation for local culture.

Best Time to Visit Central Maranhão

The best time to visit Central Maranhão is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. This is when the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is at its most impressive, with the sand dunes and lagoons at their fullest. It is also a great time to visit the region’s traditional festivals and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Maranhão

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Learn some Portuguese phrases.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites or traditions.
  • Leave trash in natural areas.
  • Ignore safety warnings or advice.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Maranhão

While Central Maranhão is generally safe for visitors, it is always important to take precautions when traveling in a foreign country. Here are some tips to stay safe while visiting Central Maranhão:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable items.
  • Follow local news and weather reports for up-to-date information.

Health in Central Maranhão

Visitors should ensure that they are up-to-date on their routine vaccinations before traveling to Central Maranhão. It is also recommended to take malaria prophylaxis if visiting the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park or other areas with a risk of malaria. It is important to drink bottled or filtered water and practice good hygiene to prevent illness.

Getting to Central Maranhão: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Maranhão

The nearest international airport to Central Maranhão is São Luís International Airport (SLZ), which offers flights to major cities in Brazil and to some international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Central Maranhão

Bus travel is a popular way to get around Brazil, and Central Maranhão is no exception. The major bus station in São Luís is the São Luís bus terminal, which offers connections to many cities in the region.

Other Options

Some visitors may choose to rent a car to explore Central Maranhão, but it is important to note that road conditions can be challenging in some areas of the region. Taxis and private drivers are also available for hire in Central Maranhão.

How to Get Around in Central Maranhão

Central Maranhão is a large region, and getting around can be challenging without a car. Taxis and private drivers are available for hire, but they can be expensive. Visitors can also take local buses or use shared vans known as “lotações”, which are an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Where to Go Next from Central Maranhão: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Central Maranhão is located in a region of Brazil with many other popular destinations nearby. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after exploring Central Maranhão:

  • Jericoacoara, Ceará: Known for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe, Jericoacoara is a popular destination for sun-seekers.
  • Fortaleza, Ceará: Fortaleza is a modern city with a beautiful beachfront and plenty of cultural attractions.
  • Parnaíba, Piauí: Parnaíba is a small town near the delta of the Parnaíba River and is a popular base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

Conclusion

Central Maranhão is a truly unique and mesmerizing destination that offers visitors a wide range of attractions and experiences. From historic landmarks and museums to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, Central Maranhão has something for everyone. With this guide, you can plan the perfect trip to Central Maranhão and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.



    Barra do Corda