Things To Do
in Cururupu

Cururupu is a picturesque coastal town located in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by lush mangroves and vibrant ecosystems, it offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The town is famous for its seafood cuisine and vibrant festivities, particularly during the Carnival season.

With its friendly locals and charming atmosphere, Cururupu is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Cururupu
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Praia de Cururupu, relax on the sandy beach, and enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to sample fresh seafood and local produce; consider trying the traditional dish 'carne de sol' for lunch.

evening
:

Dine at a recommended restaurant on the beach, followed by a stroll along the shoreline to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Museu Histórico de Cururupu to learn about the town's history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Explore local artisan shops and galleries to appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity of the local artists.

evening
:

Enjoy a lively evening at a local bar featuring live music, where you can immerse yourself in the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
🛏️Hotel per Night$30
🚖Taxi Ride (5km)$5
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty with beautiful beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be limited.
  • Potential language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica a praia?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Cururupu

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia de Cururupu

A stunning beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for capturing sunset shots.

Mangueiras de Cururupu

The lush mangrove forests provide a unique backdrop for nature photography.

Centro Histórico

The charming colonial architecture in the town center offers a glimpse into the past and beautiful photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cururupu

Cururupu is a culinary paradise, particularly for seafood lovers, with a variety of local dishes that showcase the region's rich flavors.

Cururupu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carne de Sol

Sun-dried beef served with rice and beans, a staple in northeastern Brazilian cuisine.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A fragrant seafood stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and spices.

Baião de Dois

A hearty dish of rice and beans, often accompanied by cheese and meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cururupu experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The rainy season typically occurs from May to August, while the dry season runs from September to April, with the hottest months being January and February. Humidity remains high, but coastal breezes often provide relief.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

It's common to greet locals with a friendly 'Olá' and a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.

Dress Code

Beachwear is acceptable on the beach, but more casual attire is expected in dining establishments.

Respect for Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and festivals; participating respectfully can enhance your experience.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cururupu is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings. Local authorities are responsive, and emergency services can be reached easily if needed.

Tipping in Cururupu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect hot weather with temperatures averaging 28-34°C (82-93°F). This is the peak tourist season.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures start to cool slightly, and occasional rain can be expected, making it a good time for fewer crowds.

Winter (June to August)

Mild temperatures and increased rainfall characterize this season; it's less crowded, ideal for budget travelers.

Spring (September to November)

The weather is warm and dry, with plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Cururupu at Night

Cururupu's nightlife is vibrant and laid-back, featuring a mix of bars and beachside venues where locals gather to unwind. Live music is prevalent, especially during weekends, with genres ranging from samba to local bossa nova. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to mingle with locals and other travelers alike.

Hiking in Cururupu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Rio Cururupu

A scenic hiking trail that follows the Cururupu River, offering views of the lush landscape and wildlife.

Caminho do Mangue

A trail that winds through mangrove ecosystems, providing opportunities for bird watching and photography.

Airports

How to reach Cururupu by plane.

São Luís International Airport (SLZ)

Located approximately 220 km from Cururupu, this airport serves as the main gateway for international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cururupu is a relatively walkable town, with many attractions, restaurants, and beaches located within walking distance of each other. The flat terrain and friendly locals make exploring on foot a pleasant experience. However, some areas may require a short taxi ride for convenience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

Cururupu is home to various indigenous groups, contributing to the region's rich cultural tapestry.

Mixed Ethnicities

The population consists of a diverse mix of ethnicities, including descendants of African, Portuguese, and indigenous peoples.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Brazil, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Beach Volleyball

A popular beach activity, often played on the sandy shores of Cururupu.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cururupu is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options are minimal, with occasional buses and taxis available. However, for longer distances, private transportation or car rentals may be more convenient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cururupu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes and adaptations of local cuisine.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but it's advisable to inform your server of any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Cururupu has basic healthcare facilities, including a public hospital and a few clinics. For serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like São Luís. Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide