Things To Do
in Urbano Santos
Urbano Santos is a small city in Maranhão, Brazil, set in warm, open landscapes that invite easy rural exploration. The community is known for its welcoming locals, traditional markets, and a slow-paced tempo that makes most visits feel authentic. It serves as a quiet gateway to the backroads of Maranhão, where river scenery and farmland define daily life.
Visitors can enjoy flavorful regional dishes, characterful streets, and short day trips to nearby nature spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming Praça da Matriz, where you can admire the colonial architecture and the beautiful church. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and fresh fruit juices. As the sun rises, immerse yourself in the rich history of Urbano Santos by exploring the local museums that showcase its cultural heritage.
In the afternoon, stroll through the cobblestone streets, stopping by artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs crafted by local artists. Visit the Museu de Artesanato, where you can witness the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans and learn about their techniques. As you explore, take a break at a local restaurant to savor regional dishes like 'carne de sol' and 'feijão verde'.
As night falls, find a cozy spot at a local eatery for dinner, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and live music. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can enjoy the cool evening breeze and the twinkling lights reflecting on the water. Complete your day by mingling with locals at a nearby bar, sampling traditional drinks such as 'caipirinha' while soaking in the lively ambiance.
Awaken early and prepare for a day immersed in nature as you head to the nearby trails of the Serra do Itapecuru. Begin your hike surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of tropical birds, with a guide to share the region's flora and fauna. Take breaks to admire breathtaking views of the hills and valleys that make this area so picturesque.
After a hearty picnic lunch amidst nature, continue your hike to reach a scenic viewpoint where you can capture stunning photos of the landscape. Explore hidden waterfalls and natural pools where you can take a refreshing dip, embracing the tranquility of the wilderness. As you make your way back, take time to appreciate the diverse wildlife that calls this area home.
Return to Urbano Santos in the evening, feeling rejuvenated and connected to nature. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can recount your adventure over a hearty meal. Conclude your night by enjoying a quiet evening at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🧃Packaged lunch or snack | $3-6 |
| 🚎Public transit ride | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich local culture and friendly communities
- Accessible day trips to rural and river landscapes
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Some services rely on cash and rural infrastructure can be irregular
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Não falo português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
Places to Visit in Urbano Santos
Visit one of these nice places.
The town's central square with colonial storefronts, a morning chatter of locals, and colorful market stalls – ideal for street photography.
A historic church with simple architectural lines and stained-glass details that shine in the late afternoon light.
A vantage point by the river offering broad views of the countryside and pastel skies at sunset.
Vibrant aisles of produce, crafts, and everyday life; photographer-friendly scenes abound.
Food in Urbano Santos
Urbano Santos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maranhão dish made with dried shrimp, okra, and rice, often served with greens and farofa.
Must-Try!
Fresh fried fish seasoned and served with toasted manioc flour (farinha) for a crunchy accompaniment.
A hearty mix of rice and beans with cheese or dried meat, a staple of the region.
A simple river fish stew with local herbs and cornmeal dumplings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling center for fresh produce, fish, cassava flour, and local snacks; great for tasting street bites.
Grab tapioca pancakes stuffed with cheese or coconut while exploring the town streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; a polite 'bom dia/boa tarde' is appreciated.
Use 'senhor/senhora' in formal settings and when speaking to older people.
Arrive for arranged meetings on time; social events are often relaxed about timing.
Avoid public displays of anger or confrontations in crowded places; stay friendly and patient.
Safety
Tipping in Urbano Santos
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service is not included. Small tips for service in bars or cafés are common but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted in markets; many urban businesses accept cards. Have local currency on hand and some coins for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Pack lightweight clothes, sun protection, and a compact rain shell.
Warm days with a decrease in rain; great for outdoor exploration and milder evenings.
Drier and slightly cooler; evenings can feel cooler; layer up for night activities.
Warm with occasional showers; vibrant nature and blooming plants make outdoor walks especially pleasant.
Urbano Santos at Night
Hiking in Urbano Santos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Low-elevation trails through farmland and small forest patches with river views.
Airports
How to reach Urbano Santos by plane.
Main gateway to the region; accessible by road from Urbano Santos with a few hours' drive.
Regional hub further away; viable if combining a Teresina visit with the trip.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Afro-Brazilian, descendants of settlers, and rural families; predominantly Catholic with regional secular traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect local pickup games and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Urbano Santos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Meats are common in many dishes here, so look for arroz, feijão, mandioca, and vegetarian-friendly stews; many markets offer fresh fruits and salads. Tell servers politely and consider asking for vegetable-based dishes.