Attractions and Places To See in Maranhão - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see in Maranhão include a diverse landscape of natural wonders and historical sites. This Brazilian state features vast dune landscapes interspersed with freshwater lagoons, alongside colonial cities. Visitors can explore a blend of natural environments and cultural heritage. The region offers a variety of experiences, from exploring national parks to visiting historic centers.
Best attractions and places to see in Maranhão
- The most popular attractions is Lagoa do Bicudo Gordo, a lake that is one of the largest lagoons in the national park. It is often visited with tour groups in jeeps and quad bikes, offering a natural wonder in white and blue.
- Another must-see spot is Lagoa Bonita, a lake known for its clear waters. It is popular for 4x4 tours at sunrise or sunset.
- Visitors also love Queimada do Britos Oasis, an oasis hidden in the middle of the National Park. This oasis is well-filled with water after the rainy season, and some families offer overnight stays and warm meals.
- Maranhão is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and lakes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from national parks to colonial architecture.
- The attractions in Maranhão are appreciated by the komoot community, with 1 highlight upvote and 12 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 17, 2026
Historic Center of Alcântara
Highlight • Historical Site
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Historic Center of São Luís
Highlight • Historical Site
Due to the intensive slavery practiced here at the time, the population of Maranhão is darker-skinned than in the other states of the northeast. The region is still one of the poorest in Brazil.
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Lagoa Bonita
Highlight • Lake
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Lagoa do Bicudo Gordo
Highlight • Lake
But everyone finds their own place to enjoy this perfectly formed natural wonder in white and blue.
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Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Rainy season: January to May
Dry season: June to December
The best travel time for a tour is usually the months of June to September, because then there is little rain and the dunes are well filled with water.
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Porto do Jacaré
Highlight • Rest Area
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Queimada do Britos Oasis
Highlight • Natural
This oasis is pretty well filled with water after the rainy season.
Some families live in the oasis, who also offer overnight stays on hammocks and warm meals.
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Igreja Matriz de São Matias Ruins, Praça da Matriz
Highlight • Historical Site
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Mercado dos Negros (Palácio Negro)
Highlight • Historical Site
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Baixa Grande Oasis
Highlight • Settlement
Some families live in the oasis, who also offer overnight stays on hammocks and warm meals.
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Tips from the Community
And thanks to the steep dunes, you can roll directly into the lake from above
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And yet it is worth visiting other lagoons
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One of the largest lagoons in the national park, we often visit it with tour groups in jeeps and quad bikes. But everyone finds their own place to enjoy this perfectly formed natural wonder in white and blue.
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One of the most beautiful lagoons, popular for 4x4 tours at sunrise or sunset. There are also small cafés and restaurants here.
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The Mercado dos Negros, also Palácio Negro, is located on the city's former quay and was the market place for the slave trade (the name also means market of the blacks). The market is located in Rua da Amargura, which got its name because many children of the aristocracy set off from here by ship to Europe to study there. The quay was called the Street of Bitterness because of the parents who cried when their children left.
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The Porto do Jacaré, the old port of the city, is located on the river arm of the same name and was built in the 18th century. It was the former trading center and the transshipment point for the products of the Alcântara area and is still a mooring point for ships, especially to and from São Luís. In the past and today there is a market and warehouses here, as well as mansions from the 18th century. The Porto do Jacaré is also the setting for many folk festivals. The Ladeira do Jacaré leads from the harbor up a hill into the city center.
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The main square is called Praça da Matriz. Here you can find the ruins of the church Igreja Matriz de São Matias, built in 1648. According to popular belief, a snake is said to sleep under this church. In the middle of Praça da Matriz is the Pelourinho, a type of pillory - a structure that can be found in many Portuguese and Brazilian cities. It was built in 1648 and rebuilt in 1948 after it had been buried.
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The old town (Centro Historico) of São Luís was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. During a large-scale revitalization project (“Projeto Reviver”), large parts of the well-preserved colonial architecture were restored. The historic facades of the more than 1,100 houses are particularly valuable, many of which are still decorated with old Portuguese tiles, the so-called azulejos. Although the city was founded by the French in 1612 and even named after their then king Louis XIII, it is now considered the “most Portuguese city in the country” thanks to its many azulejos. Due to the intensive slavery practiced here at the time, the population of Maranhão is darker-skinned than in the other states of the northeast. The region is still one of the poorest in Brazil.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural attractions to explore in Maranhão?
Maranhão is rich in natural wonders. The most iconic is Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, famous for its vast white sand dunes and seasonal freshwater lagoons like Lagoa do Bicudo Gordo and Lagoa Bonita. Another significant natural area is Chapada das Mesas National Park, known for its mesa-shaped hills and numerous waterfalls such as Pedra Caída and Poço Azul. The Parnaíba Delta, a mosaic of islands, mangroves, and dunes, is also a protected area and sanctuary for migratory species.
When is the ideal time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses National Park to see the lagoons at their fullest?
The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is typically from June to September. The lagoons are formed during the rainy season, which runs from January to June, so by June, they are usually full and offer the most stunning views for swimming and photography.
What historical and cultural sites should I visit in Maranhão?
Maranhão offers a deep dive into history and culture. The Historic Center of São Luís, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see with its colonial architecture adorned with Portuguese azulejos. Key landmarks include the Palácio dos Leões and the Artur Azevedo Theater. Another significant historical destination is Alcântara, a historic town accessible by boat from São Luís, featuring cobbled streets and colonial ruins like the Igreja Matriz de São Matias Ruins.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in Maranhão?
Yes, Maranhão offers several family-friendly options. The lagoons within Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, such as Lagoa do Bicudo Gordo and Lagoa Bonita, are popular for swimming in their clear, temperate waters. In São Luís, the Valparaiso Acqua Park provides an alternative with water slides and pools set within a forest reserve. The Historic Center of São Luís is also considered family-friendly, offering cultural exploration.
What unique natural features can I find within Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
Beyond the famous dunes and lagoons, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is home to unique oases. For instance, Queimada do Britos Oasis and Baixa Grande Oasis are hidden amidst the sand dunes. These oases are often well-filled with water after the rainy season, and some local families residing there offer overnight stays and warm meals, providing an immersive experience.
What kind of outdoor activities or routes can I find near Maranhão's attractions?
Maranhão offers various outdoor activities, particularly running. You can find several running trails, including moderate routes like the Parque Ambiental Poty I loop or the Praia do Calhau – Praia do Olho d'Água loop. For more details on routes and their difficulty, you can explore the Running Trails in Maranhão guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
Visitors to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park especially enjoy the unique experience of swimming in the crystal-clear freshwater lagoons nestled between towering white sand dunes. Highlights like Lagoa do Bicudo Gordo are appreciated for their natural beauty, with some dunes steep enough to roll directly into the lake. Lagoa Bonita is popular for its clear waters and stunning views, especially during 4x4 tours at sunrise or sunset.
How can I get to more secluded areas like Atins within Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
Atins, a secluded village within or near Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, is typically accessible by boat or 4WD vehicle. Boat tours along the Preguiças River are a popular way to explore the region, often including stops at Caburé and Vassouras, and can connect you to areas like Atins for a tranquil retreat and local cuisine.
Are there any significant cultural centers or museums in Maranhão?
Yes, São Luís, in particular, is home to several cultural institutions. The Vale Maranhão Cultural Center, housed in a colonial mansion, promotes local art and culture. Additionally, São Luís boasts museums such as the Historical and Artistic Museum of Maranhão, the Maranhão Gastronomy Museum, the Maranhão Reggae Museum, and the House of Nhozinho Museum, showcasing the region's rich heritage and cultural expressions like Bumba-meu-boi and reggae music.
What types of beaches can I find in Maranhão?
Maranhão's coastline, especially around São Luís, offers several white sandy beaches. Popular options include Calhau and São Marcos, which are suitable for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Araçagy Beach is another notable choice for those looking to enjoy the Atlantic waters.
What is the significance of the Parnaíba Delta in Maranhão?
The Parnaíba Delta, located where the Rio Parnaíba meets the Atlantic Ocean, is one of the largest deltas in the world. It's a protected area characterized by a unique mosaic of islands, mangroves, and dunes. It serves as a crucial sanctuary for migratory species, including the striking red ibis, making it a significant ecological attraction.
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Most popular attractions in Maranhão
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