Things To Do
in São Mateus do Maranhão
São Mateus do Maranhão is a municipality located in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with various festivals and celebrations taking place throughout the year. The local economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with crops such as rice, soybeans, and corn being grown in the region.
The town is also home to several historical sites and attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring Brazil's interior regions.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Praia de Costa do Sol, where you can enjoy the sun and a refreshing swim. Grab a breakfast at a beachside café to taste some local dishes.
Visit Praia do Tuká to experience its beautiful landscape and try water sports like stand-up paddleboarding. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant offering freshly caught seafood.
Wrap up your day with a stroll along the beach and a glorious sunset. Dinner options include local delicacies at a beachfront restaurant.
Begin with a hike in the nearby Época do Sol State Park, enjoying the diverse flora and fauna. Take a packed breakfast to savor while immersed in nature.
Continue trekking to discover local historical sites and breathtaking lookout points. Stop for lunch at a local eatery to refuel.
Return to town and explore local markets for handmade crafts. Enjoy dinner at a popular spot with live music for a fun atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions that reflect the local history.
- Natural beauty with stunning landscapes and proximity to rivers and forests.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Brazilian cities.
- Growing tourism potential with emerging attractions.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Fewer educational institutions and opportunities for higher education.
- Infrastructural challenges, including poor road conditions in some areas.
- Economic opportunities may be limited, leading to reliance on agriculture.
- Vulnerability to environmental issues, such as flooding during the rainy season.
Best Activities in São Mateus do Maranhão
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and rock formations in this beautiful national park.
A beautiful waterfall where visitors can swim, picnic, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Experience the beauty of the Rio Balsas with a guided riverboat tour, wildlife spotting, and relaxing river cruises.
Tours
Uncover the best of São Mateus do Maranhão with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in São Mateus do Maranhão
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular lookout point in São Mateus do Maranhão that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape, perfect for photography.
The main square in São Mateus do Maranhão, featuring historic architecture and a picturesque setting for capturing the local culture and atmosphere.
The historic church in São Mateus do Maranhão, known for its beautiful facade and interior, providing a unique backdrop for photo opportunities.
Food in São Mateus do Maranhão
São Mateus do Maranhão Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local soda with a distinct pink color and a sweet, fruity flavor. It's available at supermarkets, local eateries, and street vendors throughout the city.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish made with rice, shrimp, and a flavorful herb called vinagreira. Look for it at family-owned restaurants and Brazilian eateries in the downtown area.
This savory shrimp pie is a local favorite, often found at bakeries and pastry shops in São Mateus do Maranhão.
Unique Experiences
Get to know São Mateus do Maranhão better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The municipal market is a culinary treasure trove, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls with authentic Maranhão flavors. Don't miss the tapioca vendors and regional snacks.
Along the beachfront, you'll encounter charming food stalls known as 'barracas' serving up fresh seafood, coconut water, and grilled snacks. It's an ideal spot to savor local street foods while enjoying the coastal vibes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Engage with the local community, show interest in their customs and traditions, and be respectful towards local beliefs and practices.
Respect personal space and physical boundaries, as Brazilians generally appreciate a certain degree of physical proximity in social interactions.
Greet people with warmth and enthusiasm, using handshakes, cheek kisses, or hugs depending on the familiarity of the relationship, and address individuals with their titles and surnames when first meeting them.
Safety
Tipping in São Mateus do Maranhão
Ensure a smooth experience
In São Mateus do Maranhão, Brazil, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a 10% gratuity at restaurants and bars if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Payment in São Mateus do Maranhão is predominantly done in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and establishments that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit São Mateus do Maranhão, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
The wet season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the landscape is lush and green during this time, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.
São Mateus do Maranhão at Night
Hiking in São Mateus do Maranhão
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park known for its stunning sand dunes and seasonal lagoons, offering various hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Features impressive plateaus, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, with numerous hiking paths that lead to natural wonders.
An adventure route that combines hiking and eco-tourism along beaches, lagoons, and dunes, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
A state park with hiking trails that weave through rich vegetation, providing opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach São Mateus do Maranhão by plane.
Located approximately 220 km from São Mateus do Maranhão, this is the nearest major international airport serving the state capital, São Luís.
Located in Salvador, Bahia, this airport is about 800 km from São Mateus do Maranhão and serves as a major international gateway in the northeastern region of Brazil.
Situated in Fortaleza, Ceará, this airport is approximately 1,000 km from São Mateus do Maranhão, offering international flights and connections.
Located in Rio de Janeiro, this major international airport is about 1,500 km from São Mateus do Maranhão and serves as a key hub for international flights.
Located in Recife, Pernambuco, this airport is approximately 1,200 km from São Mateus do Maranhão, providing a variety of international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of mixed race, a significant demographic in São Mateus do Maranhão.
White individuals, representing a notable part of the population.
Black individuals, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Asian individuals, a smaller demographic group in the municipality.
Indigenous population, representing the ancestral heritage of Brazil.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in São Mateus do Maranhão, played in various local leagues and tournaments.
A widely played sport, both recreationally and competitively, especially among youth.
Gaining popularity in schools and community centers, often played in informal settings.
A traditional Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music, popular in the community.
A variation of football played indoors on a smaller field, popular among local youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Mateus do Maranhão.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Maranhão cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, some restaurants and eateries in São Mateus do Maranhão offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives like vegetable stews, rice dishes, and salads. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out.
Locally, gluten-free options may be limited in traditional dishes; however, some establishments can accommodate gluten-free requests with advance notice. Opt for grilled meats, fresh fruits, and natural juices as safer choices for gluten-sensitive diets.