Day Trips São Luís

Day Trips from São Luís

São Luís, the capital of Maranhão, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. While there’s plenty to see and do within the city limits, there are also some amazing day trip options that allow you to explore the surrounding region.

Alcântara

  • Distance from São Luís: 35 km (22 miles)
  • Travel time: approximately 1 hour by car or bus

This charming colonial town is located on the other side of the Baía de São Marcos. Take a ferry from São Luís to reach Alcântara, where you can stroll through its historic center, visit the stunning Portuguese-style churches, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some of the local seafood dishes, such as peixe ao forno (baked fish) or camarão ao molho (shrimp in a spicy sauce).
  • Visit the Mercado de Alcântara, where you can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Guimarães

  • Distance from São Luís: 60 km (37 miles)
  • Travel time: approximately 1.5 hours by car or bus

This picturesque town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Take a guided hike to explore the Parque Estadual do Guimarães, or simply relax in one of the many natural pools.

Tips:

  • Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Try some of the local fruits, such as guava or passionfruit, which are abundant in the region.

Raposa

  • Distance from São Luís: 45 km (28 miles)
  • Travel time: approximately 1 hour by car or bus

This small town is famous for its beautiful beaches and traditional Afro-Brazilian culture. Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, a stunning church built in the 18th century, and enjoy the lively drumming and dancing performances.

Tips:

  • Be respectful of the local community and traditions.
  • Try some of the delicious local street food, such as acarajé (fried dough) or abará (steamed dumplings).

Getting Around

To get to these destinations, you can rent a car or take public transportation from São Luís. There are also private transfer services available.

Language

While many locals in the region speak Portuguese, some may also speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s still a good idea to learn some basic Portuguese phrases, such as “obrigado” (thank you) and “desculpe” (excuse me).

Safety

As with any travel destination, be mindful of your belongings and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Avoid traveling alone at night and keep an eye on your valuables.

With these tips and information, you’re ready to plan your day trips from São Luís!