Situated in northeastern Brazil, the town of Sao Luis is separated into two areas by the waters of the Rio Anil. While beaches and modern tourist attractions can be found on the northern side of the river, the town’s highlight – its historic centre – lies south of the Rio Anil. Encompassing numerous examples of beautifully preserved colonial Portuguese architecture, this World Heritage Site is particularly well known for its unusual tiled buildings. To add to its allure, Sao Luis’s also has a rich culture: Afro-Brazilian influences can be found in the local cuisine, the reggae music scene and, most interesting of all, the Bumba Meu Boi traditions that are celebrated during colourful annual festivals.
Located in the northeastern coastal state of Maranhao, the Brazilian town of Barreirinhas serves as an excellent base for visitors to explore the spectacular surrounding area. The undeniable highlight of this area is the breathtaking Lencois Maranhenses National Park, which is home to thousands of seasonal clear blue lagoons dotting a vast blanket of dunes stretching on for kilometres and kilometres.
Atins is located between the spectacular dunes of the Lencois Maranhenses and the Atlantic Ocean’s coastline. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, laid-back energy and is one of the top kiteboarding destinations in the world. This secluded little town features sandy streets, endless dunes, palm-fringed beaches, and the calm waters of massive sheltered lagoons. Adventurers will enjoy the rustic, remote feel of the town as well as the chance to experience some of the best kitesurfing in the world. Atkins serves as an excellent base from which to explore the Lencois Maranhenses, where visitors can enjoy an array of adventure sports and excellent bird watching. Other popular activities include hiking, swimming, boating, and kiteboarding.
Located on Brazil’s northern coast roughly an hour’s drive east of Parnaiba, and set in the State of Piaui, Barra Grande is a watersports haven. The picturesque fishing village is home to a stunning beach perfect for kitesurfing. Not yet overrun by mass tourism, the tranquil shore of soft, palm-fringed sands and the town’s tiny (but very much alive) collection bars and caipirinhas provide an idyllic destination for holidaymakers. Barra Grande is set on the renowned Ventos Route, which is filled with all the beaches, dunes, winds and waves an outdoor adventurer might desire. Animal lovers should visit the manatee observation location, where this gentle giant, the world’s most endangered aquatic mammal, can be seen. Take a boat trip through the beautiful mangroves of the Delta of Parnaiba, and watch the ‘Swarm of the Guaras’ (bright red birds) in the Guaras Rainforest.
Situated in the eastern Brazilian state of Ceara, the beach resort town of Jericoacoara is known for its spectacular palm-lined beach, lively restaurants, cafes and bars. Renowned as a kitesurfing and windsurfing mecca, this laidback hippie village is surrounded by idyllic natural features including expansive freshwater lagoons, vast dune areas and the magnificent Jericoacoara National Park.
