Things To Do
in Codó
Codó is a riverside city in Maranhão, Brazil, known for its warm hospitality and vibrant local culture. Nestled along the Tocantins River, it serves as a gateway to rural communities and lush forested landscapes nearby. The town blends Afro-Brazilian traditions, Catholic festivals, and lively markets that spill with color and flavor.
Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere, flavorful cuisine, and a pace of life that centers on community and the river.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Praça de São Sebastião, where the vibrant local life unfolds. Stroll through the charming streets, admiring the colonial architecture and the colorful facades of the buildings. Stop by a local café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and fresh fruit juice.
Visit the historic Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, known for its intricate woodwork and serene atmosphere. Afterward, explore the local artisan shops, where you can find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring regional dishes such as arroz de cuxá or carne de sol.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Rio Itapecuru, where the landscape transforms with the golden light. Dine at a local eatery, trying out the fresh seafood offerings and traditional desserts like cocada. Conclude your evening by joining a local samba gathering to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Codó.
Set off early for a day trip to the stunning Parque Nacional da Chapada das Mesas, located about two hours from Codó. Upon arrival, enjoy the breathtaking views from the viewpoints, where dramatic plateaus and lush greenery await. Explore the park's trails, keeping an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits this beautiful region.
After a morning of hiking, have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, enjoying local snacks and refreshing drinks. Continue your exploration by visiting the majestic waterfalls, taking a refreshing dip to cool off. Capture the stunning scenery with your camera as you hike to various viewpoints throughout the park.
Return to Codó in the evening, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Choose a cozy spot for dinner, perhaps trying a local specialty like feijoada. Wind down your evening by enjoying a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the night ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-day pass) | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly) | $20-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming culture and authentic local cuisine
- Compact town with essential services and easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Some areas can be hot and humid, with long travel times to major cities
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Eu não como carne de porco." - I don't eat pork.
- "Você aceita PIX?" - Do you accept PIX?
- "Pode me trazer a conta?" - Can you bring the bill?
Places to Visit in Codó
Visit one of these nice places.
A colorful central square framed by colonial and modern buildings, ideal for street photography at sunrise.
The town’s main church with classic architecture and interior details; great for architectural shots.
Sunset views along the riverfronts; watch boats and local life drift by for atmospheric photos.
Bustling market scenes with fishermen, vendors, and bright produce under soft morning light.
Food in Codó
Codó Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maranhão dish: rice cooked with okra, dried shrimp, and palm oil; best found in local restaurants in Codó, especially near the riverfront.
Must-Try!
Fish stews with coconut milk and peppers, reflecting coastal influences, commonly served with mandioca or rice.
Sun-dried beef served with cassava to soak up its hearty, salty flavors; a staple in inland Maranhão kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market for fresh fish, produce, and prepared snacks; a good place to try regional ingredients.
Street stalls offering tapioca crepes stuffed with sweet or savory fillings—perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and shake hands; address elders with respect.
Be respectful at churches and during local celebrations; photograph with permission when in doubt.
Engage in relaxed, polite conversation; avoid loud outbursts in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Codó
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave 5-10% in sit-down restaurants if service is not automatically included.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept credit cards and PIX (instant bank transfer) for electronic payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid with frequent afternoon rain showers; carry water, hat, and sunscreen.
Rainfall begins to ease; temperatures remain warm; great for outdoor photography and river trips.
Warm days with cooler evenings; higher humidity can remain; potential for mosquito activity; use repellent.
Dry season intensifies; sunny days and clear skies; river water levels may be lower.
Codó at Night
Hiking in Codó
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Casual hiking and nature walks along riverbanks and in nearby rural landscapes; best with a local guide for safety and navigation.
Airports
How to reach Codó by plane.
São Luís International Airport connects to major Brazilian cities and is the main gateway for accessing Codó; drive or take a regional flight to the Codó area.
Nearest regional airport with more frequent connections to Maranhão interior; easier for short trips to Codó.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families living in Codó’s center and surrounding neighborhoods.
Villages and farms in the countryside with strong local traditions.
Cultural blend reflected in festivals, music, and religious practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and pickup games are common in parks and streets.
Courts in schools and community centers are busy in evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Codó.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based options like mandioca-based dishes, tapioca, fruits, and salads; ask cooks to reduce oil or replace animal fats when possible.