São Luís - Discovering Brazil

Travelling to São Luís

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in São Luís, a pretty good destination in Brazil (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to São Luís and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around São Luís, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Brazil, here's everything to know about São Luís for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to São Luís

São Luís is the capital city of the Brazilian state of Maranhão, located in the northeastern region of the country. It was founded in 1612 by the French and later colonized by the Portuguese, resulting in a unique blend of cultures, architecture and cuisine. São Luís is known for its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring colorful colonial buildings, centuries-old churches, and lively streets. The city is also famous for its beaches, dunes, lagoons, and a unique ecosystem of mangroves. The local cuisine is rich in seafood, rice, beans, and spices, and is heavily influenced by African and Indigenous cultures. The best time to visit São Luís is during the dry season, from June to December, when the weather is warm and sunny.

What to visit in São Luís

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in São Luís, Brazil and a little information about each one: 1. Historic Center of São Luís - This is the main attraction of the city and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a well-preserved colonial center with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and churches dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
2. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - This is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Brazil. It's a vast desert landscape with white sand dunes and freshwater lagoons that form during the rainy season. Visitors can go on Jeep tours or hike to explore the area.
3. Alcântara - This is a historic town located on a peninsula just across the bay from São Luís. It has preserved colonial architecture and is known for its beautiful handmade pottery. Visitors can take a ferry or catamaran to get there.
4. Palácio dos Leões - This is the governor's palace and it has a neoclassical architecture. It was built in the 19th century and now functions as a museum. Visitors can learn about the history of Maranhão state and see art exhibitions.
5. Museu Histórico e Artístico do Maranhão - This museum features a collection of colonial art, furniture, and pottery. It's housed in a 19th century mansion and visitors can learn about the history and culture of the state.
6. Mercado Central - This is a large market with over 2,000 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
7. Praia do Calhau - This is one of the most popular beaches in São Luís. It has clear water, white sand and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
8. Reserva Biológica do Gurupi - This is a nature reserve located about 250 km from São Luís. It has a diverse ecosystem with rivers, waterfalls, and an abundance of flora and fauna. Visitors can go hiking, bird-watching, and camping.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Brazil, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in São Luís.

When to go on holiday to São Luís

The best time to visit São Luís is between the months of July and December when the weather is dry and temperatures are more mild. This is also the peak tourist season in the region.
The months from January to June have heavy rainfall and high humidity levels, which may make traveling and outdoor activities uncomfortable. However, this is also the time when the city celebrates its annual carnival, which can be a unique and exciting experience for those interested in attending.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to São Luís

There are several ways to get to São Luís, Brazil. The most common way to reach São Luís is by flying, but you can also arrive by bus or by car. Here are some options: By Air: São Luís has an international airport, Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ), with connections to several Brazilian cities and international destinations. Major airlines like LATAM, Gol, and Azul operate flights to this airport. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or an Uber to your final destination in the city.
By Bus: If you are traveling from nearby cities, such as Teresina, Fortaleza or Belém, you can take a bus to São Luís. There are several bus companies that operate routes to São Luís, such as Expresso Guanabara and Progresso.
By Car: São Luís is connected to the rest of Brazil through the BR-135 highway. If you are driving from Teresina or Fortaleza, you can take the BR-316 highway and connect to the BR-135 at Bacabal. However, be aware that the roads can be challenging and it is essential to take breaks along the way.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit São Luís, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in São Luís

Sure, here are some typical foods of São Luís, Brazil: 1. Arroz de Cuxá: A dish made with rice, manioc leaves, onion, garlic, shrimp, and a special sauce made with the cuxá herb.
2. Tambaqui Assado: A roasted tambaqui fish dish, seasoned with various spices and served with farofa (manioc flour mixture).
3. Caldeirada: A seafood stew made with fish, shrimp, crab, and various vegetables like tomato, onion, and garlic.
4. Guaraná Jesus: A sweet, pink soda made with guaraná berry from the Amazon rainforest, which is very popular in São Luís.
5. Pastel de Caranguejo: A fried pastry stuffed with crab meat, herbs, and spices, similar to an empanada.
6. Sarapatel: A delicacy made with pig offal (organs and entrails) cooked with various herbs, spices, and vinegar.
7. Cuxá com Camarão: A dish made with cuxá (herbs), rice, and shrimp cooked with spices, onion, and garlic.
8. Vatapá: A paste made with bread, shrimp, coconut milk, palm oil, and various spices. It is usually served with rice or acarajé (a type of fried bean cake).
These are just a few examples of the delicious and unique foods you can find in São Luís, Brazil.
You can find general info about typical foods in Brazil here.

Is São Luís an expensive destination for tourists?

São Luís can be relatively expensive for tourists compared to other destinations in Brazil, but it is still possible to find affordable accommodation, food, and activities if you search carefully. Prices can vary depending on the season, with higher prices during peak tourist times. It is also important to note that prices may be higher in the historic city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, compared to other areas of the city. In general, it is recommended to research and compare prices beforehand, and to consider staying in hostels or guesthouses rather than hotels to save money.

Where to find accomodation in São Luís

There are several areas in São Luís that offer great accommodation options for visitors. The most popular areas to stay in are: 1. Historical Center: This area is known for its colonial architecture and is popular among tourists. It offers a range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.
2. Calhau: Located along the coast, this area is popular for its beaches and seafood restaurants. There are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from.
3. Ponta d'Areia: This is another beachfront area that is popular among tourists. It offers a range of accommodation options including hotels and apartment rentals.
4. Lagoa da Jansen: This area is located near a large lake and is popular for its nightlife. It has several hotels and apartment rentals to choose from.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in will depend on your personal preferences and what you plan to do during your trip.
You can check hotel prices at São Luís here:
Booking.com

Is São Luís a safe destination for tourists?

São Luís, like any other big city, has its own complexities and challenges when it comes to safety. However, with proper precautions and awareness, it can be a safe destination for tourists.
It is recommended to take common sense precautions such as not walking alone at night, avoiding showing off expensive jewelry or electronics and being aware of your surroundings. It is also important to choose safe transportation options, staying at reputable hotels, and getting information from local authorities or trustworthy sources about any areas to avoid.
Overall, São Luís is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a unique cultural experience. Taking appropriate safety measures can help ensure a positive and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Brazil here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting São Luís.

What type of travelers will enjoy São Luís the most?

São Luís, Brazil is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. Here are some suggestions based on traveler types: - Couples: São Luís's colonial architecture, picturesque streets, and vibrant culture make it a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. There are also plenty of romantic restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from.
- Young people: São Luís is a lively city that has plenty of nightlife options, including bars and clubs that stay open late. The city also hosts several music festivals throughout the year, which would be a great draw for young travelers.
- Families: São Luís has something for every member of the family. The city's beaches, trails, and parks would be perfect for families looking to spend time outdoors. There are also several museums and cultural attractions that are great for all ages.
Overall, São Luís is an excellent destination for all traveler types, whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or with family.

How to get around São Luís

In São Luís, you can use various transportation options to move around the city, including public buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99. There are also motorcycle taxis, known as "moto-taxis," that are popular in the city. However, it's important to keep in mind that traffic in São Luís can be quite congested, especially during rush hour.

What to see around São Luís

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from São Luís, Brazil: 1. Alcântara: This historic town is located only 30 km away from São Luís and has beautiful Portuguese colonial architecture, charming streets, and a peaceful atmosphere.
2. Lagoa do Cassó: This stunning lagoon is located 83 km from São Luís and is a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and camping.
3. Santo Amaro do Maranhão: This picturesque small town is located about 200 km from São Luís and is known for its beautiful sand dunes and lagoons.
4. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park: This unique park is located about 260 km from São Luís and features stunning sand dunes and lagoons, formed by rainwater that accumulates during the rainy season.
5. Barreirinhas: Located about 250 km from São Luís, this charming town is the gateway to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and also offers boat tours on the Preguiças River.
I hope this helps you plan your day trips from São Luís, Brazil!
For every travel information about Brazil you can click here.

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