Sao Luis

Brazil

Sao Luis is a vibrant historical city renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, particularly its tiled houses, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status. It serves as a gateway to the spectacular Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a unique landscape of sand dunes and seasonal lagoons. The city also offers a rich Afro-Brazilian culture and lively music scene.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$70/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

MaranhãoNortheast BrazilHistoric Center of São LuísLençóis MaranhensesAlcântara

🇧🇷 Country Information: Brazil

CapitalBrasilia
CurrencyBrazilian real (R$)
Language Portuguese , English, Spanish, Indigenous languages
Phone Code+55
Electricity127/220V (Type C, N)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is common in restaurants and bars (10% service charge is often included, but extra tipping for excellent service is appreciated)
  • Taxis: Round up the fare or tip a small amount
  • Hotel staff: A small tip for porters and housekeepers is customary
  • Tour guides: Tipping is appreciated for good service

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in major cities
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger towns, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas
  • It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in remote areas
  • There is no official black market for cash, but street vendors may offer slightly better exchange rates for foreign currency

Cultural Norms

  • Brazilians are generally warm and friendly, and physical touch is common (e
  • g
  • , hugs, kisses on the cheek)
  • Punctuality is more relaxed compared to some Western cultures, especially for social gatherings
  • Dress casually but neatly in most situations; beachwear is for the beach only
  • Avoid discussing politics or religion with strangers unless they initiate the conversation
  • When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift for the host

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Brazil has a reputation for being LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in major cities. Same-sex marriage is legal, and there are constitutional protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Public consumption of alcohol is generally permitted
  • Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts of illicit drugs can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to wear camouflage clothing unless you are a member of the armed forces
  • Be aware of local protests or demonstrations, which can occur frequently
  • Photography of military installations, police, or protests is generally prohibited

Common Phrases

NoNão (NOWNG)
YesSim (SING)
HelloOlá (oh-LAH)
PleasePor favor (poor fah-VOR)
Thank youObrigado/Obrigada (oh-bree-GAH-doo/oh-bree-GAH-dah)
Good morningBom dia (bohng DEE-ah)
Good afternoonBoa tarde (BOH-ah TAR-jee)
Excuse me/SorryCom licença/Desculpa (kohn lee-SEN-sah/dee-SKOOL-pah)

Climate

Sao Luis is located on an island in the state of Maranhao, Brazil, with a humid tropical climate.

Climate Zone: Equatorial Monsoon

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Arroz de Cuxá (Cuxá rice) regional_speciality

This is a quintessential dish of Maranhão cuisine, reflecting the state's rich cultural heritage. It consists of rice cooked until soft and flavorful,

Juçara with dried shrimp and flour must_try

Juçara is a delicacy made from the fruit of the juçara palm, similar to açaí, and in São Luís, it is distinctively consumed in a savory preparation. I

Beiju or Tapioca street_food

In São Luís, Beiju is based on cassava dough and can be consumed in various forms, similar to how tapioca is known elsewhere. It can be accompanied wi

Sururu regional_speciality

Sururu is a type of mussel found in the mangroves of the Island. In São Luís, it is often prepared with coconut milk and served in restaurants, fairs,

Hot Dog (São Luís style) street_food

The traditional hot dog in São Luís is notable for its distinct ingredients, most significantly including ground meat as one of its main ingredients.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Dining at Cabana do Sol Dining
Book 2–8 weeks in advance

Cabana do Sol is considered the best and most popular regional restaurant in São Luís, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dining times, to ensure seating.

Fun Facts

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