Things To Do
in Amarante do Maranhão
Amarante do Maranhão is a small municipality in Maranhão, Brazil, tucked among tropical landscapes and riverine scenery. The town charms visitors with a compact historic center, colorful houses, and a relaxed pace rooted in local traditions. Nearby waterways and forests offer easy escapes for nature lovers, foodies, and photographers alike.
Expect warm hospitality, flavorful Maranhão cuisine, and sunsets over quiet horizons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a stroll through the quaint streets of Amarante, where colonial architecture beckons with stories of the past. Visit the local market to savor tropical fruits and regional delicacies that reflect the rich culture of Maranhão. Capture the beauty of the morning light illuminating the town’s vibrant colors as you immerse yourself in the local life.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Lençóis Maranhenses National Park for a breathtaking tour of its expansive sand dunes and stunning lagoons. You can either hike through the dunes or take a dune buggy ride, experiencing the unique natural landscape that this area offers. Make sure to bring your camera, as the shifting sands and crystal-clear waters create a perfect photo opportunity.
As the sun begins to set, return to Amarante and treat yourself to a traditional dinner at one of the local restaurants, sampling dishes infused with regional flavors. Later, take a leisurely evening walk along the riverbank, where you can experience the tranquility of the landscape as it transforms under the night sky. Engage with friendly locals or enjoy live music at a nearby venue, wrapping up your day with the warmth of Brazilian hospitality.
Set off early for a guided wildlife tour in the nearby Amazon rainforest, where the sounds of nature awaken your senses. Spot exotic birds, monkeys, and diverse plant life while learning about the ecological significance of this spectacular ecosystem. Enjoy a breakfast packed with local treats as you embrace the morning in the heart of nature.
After a thrilling morning of exploration, have lunch at a riverside lodge where you can taste locally sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon kayaking along the river, getting up close to the water’s edge and potentially spotting more wildlife in their natural habitat. The serene experience on the water provides a unique perspective of the rainforest.
Return to Amarante for a relaxed evening, enjoying dinner at a local eatery known for its seafood specialties. Engage with fellow travelers to share stories of your day’s adventures amidst the backdrop of the beautifully lit town. End the night stargazing as you soak in the peaceful ambiance of the Brazilian landscape.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Main dish at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🛍️Local souvenir item | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a relaxed pace
- Rich Maranhão cuisine and authentic markets
- Accessible nature and river scenery within reach
- Limited public transport between rural areas
- Smaller towns may have fewer English-speaking residents
- Heat and humidity can be intense for some visitors
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much is this?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is the…?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Desculpe" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Amarante do Maranhão
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light illuminates the central square and the church’s façade, creating classic color and texture contrasts in the historic center.
Riverfront docks and palm-lined banks provide reflections, boats, and silhouettes at sunrise or sunset.
A raised vantage point over the town offers sweeping views of colorful houses, winding streets, and the surrounding landscape.
Food in Amarante do Maranhão
Amarante do Maranhão Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with dried shrimp (cuxá), okra, and palm oil, typically served with fried fish.
Must-Try!
A flavorful fish stew with tomatoes, onions, coconut milk, and herbs, often enjoyed with cassava or rice.
Sun-dried beef served with creamy cassava purée, a staple in rural Maranhão cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can taste fresh fruits, cassava snacks, and street bites like tapiocas and fried fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and a handshake; address elders with Senhor/Senhora and maintain respectful conversation.
Ask for consent before photographing people, especially in private spaces or family contexts.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; lightweight clothing is practical for the heat.
Safety
Tipping in Amarante do Maranhão
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping is appreciated if not included in the bill (5-10%). Rounding up the fare for taxi drivers or street vendors is common but not required.
Cash (reais) is widely accepted in markets and smaller establishments; cards are common in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. ATMs are readily available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon rain showers; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and pack a light rain layer.
Warm humidity persists with occasional rain; ideal for outdoor walks and photography in softer light.
Milder days with cooler nights; comfortable for longer strolls and sunset photography sessions.
Warm and generally dry; markets and plazas come alive with more outdoor events and music.
Amarante do Maranhão at Night
Hiking in Amarante do Maranhão
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A riverside trail offering shaded sections, birdlife, and scenic viewpoints along the riverbank.
Gentle hillside trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and farmland.
Airports
How to reach Amarante do Maranhão by plane.
Serving São Luís and the region, with domestic and some international flights; typical gateway for travelers visiting northern Maranhão.
Nearby domestic airport connecting to major Brazilian cities; convenient for travelers staying in the western part of Maranhão.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents live in smaller communities around the municipality, preserving traditional livelihoods and crafts.
A sizeable younger demographic centers around schools and local markets, contributing to a lively weekend scene.
Many residents identify with Catholic traditions; religious festivals often feature prominently in local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s favorite sport; casual games and local matches are common in plazas and school fields.
Popular in schools and clubs, especially during warm evenings and community events.
A cultural martial art often practiced in public spaces and cultural centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amarante do Maranhão.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
As a vegetarian, focus on plant-based dishes like cassava, beans, rice, plantains, fruits, and salads; ask for veggie options that use mandioca flour or vegetable stews.