Things To Do
in Magalhães de Almeida
Magalhães de Almeida is a small municipality in Maranhão in northeast Brazil. It sits in a lush tropical landscape with rivers and farmland and a friendly local community. The town has a relaxed tempo, markets traditional crafts and easy access to nature and nearby beaches.
Visitors can enjoy authentic regional cuisine, markets and short trips to scenic river valleys and trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Magalhães de Almeida, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant streets. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee. As the sun rises higher, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling markets, experiencing the local culture and community life.
In the afternoon, explore the Museu Municipal, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region through various exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, featuring local specialties such as peixe frito (fried fish) and farofa. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the local artisan shops, where you can purchase unique handmade crafts.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a local bar or restaurant to enjoy live music and traditional Brazilian cuisine. Taste regional dishes while mingling with friendly locals, and soak in the lively atmosphere. End your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the sights and sounds of Magalhães de Almeida at night.
Begin your day with a guided tour into the nearby Parque Nacional da Chapada das Mesas, where stunning landscapes and unique rock formations await. As you hike through the trails, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including diverse bird species and playful monkeys. The fresh morning air and natural beauty will invigorate your spirit as you immerse yourself in the lush surroundings.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by breathtaking views and the sounds of nature. Following lunch, continue your adventure with a visit to the stunning waterfall, Cachoeira do Prata, where you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Capture the moment with photos as you bask in the beauty of this natural oasis.
Return to Magalhães de Almeida in the evening and unwind at a local eatery, discussing the day's adventures over a hearty meal. Try some regional favorites, such as galinha caipira (free-range chicken) cooked with spices. Let the calming atmosphere of the town's nightlife wash over you as you relax and reflect on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport per ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Mid range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small town charm
- Affordable prices
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Access to regional nature
- Good food markets and dishes
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Fewer English speakers
- Rural transportation can be slow
- Heat and humidity year round
- Some services concentrated in the city center
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
Places to Visit in Magalhães de Almeida
Visit one of these nice places.
The main square offers soft morning light and traditional architecture for atmospheric shots.
The riverside promenade with boats and reflections makes for great wide shots.
A historic church with colonial features ideal for detail and facade photography.
Colorful stalls and people at work provide candid and macro photography opportunities.
Food in Magalhães de Almeida
Magalhães de Almeida Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with dried shrimp and the local cuxá sauce made with okra and herbs.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew with coconut milk peppers and herbs served with rice.
A comforting mix of rice and beans often with cheese and sometimes smoked meat.
Fish stew with vegetables and seasonal herbs typical of the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce fish and regional ingredients.
Weekly street markets offering fresh fruit juices tapioca grilled fish and snacks.
Tapioca stalls caldinho de peixe and other quick bites around the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a warm nod with eye contact. Address people politely and use basic Portuguese.
Dress modestly in respectful settings and avoid loud conduct in sacred spaces.
Be patient in conversations; small talk about family and local life is common.
Safety
Tipping in Magalhães de Almeida
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory. Many cafes add 10% service; leave small change for good service.
Cash in local currency BRL is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards; Pix is commonly used for quick transfers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
Transition to rainy season with sporadic heavy rains; keep rain gear handy.
Drier and slightly cooler days; nights can be cool; good for outdoor exploration.
Warm with improving dry conditions; pleasant for hiking and markets.
Magalhães de Almeida at Night
Hiking in Magalhães de Almeida
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside hike offering wildlife viewing and farmland views.
Short hikes to small waterfalls and viewpoints in the surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Magalhães de Almeida by plane.
Located near São Luís, the main international gateway for Maranhão with connections across Brazil and abroad.
A regional airport closer to Magalhães de Almeida with domestic flights and connections to larger hubs.
A major airport in nearby Teresina offering broad domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many people live in nearby farms and villages with strong community ties.
Local craftspeople contribute to a vibrant market scene.
A growing urban youth community connected to regional culture and education centers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national favorite with local leagues and street games.
Popular on river banks and near urban beaches when available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Magalhães de Almeida.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice and beans dishes, fresh vegetables and salads. Ask for sem carne or sem peixe and avoid fish sauces.