Sao Jose de Ribamar

Introduction

São José de Ribamar is a municipality in the Brazilian state of Maranhão, sharing São Luís Island with the capital city of São Luís and the neighbouring municipalities of Raposa and Paço do Lumiar. Its position on the island places it within the same coastal setting as these communities, in a part of Brazil where the Atlantic meets the estuaries of the region.

Three days in Sao Jose de Ribamar

Day one: Start in São José de Ribamar itself, the town on São Luís Island in Maranhão where the pace is set by the Atlantic and by the pilgrimage tradition that draws Brazilians here. Walk the centre and take in the Paço, then let the afternoon slow down along the waterfront before dinner.

Day two: Head out to São Luís, the state capital on the same island, for a day of colonial streets and city life. Return to São José de Ribamar in the evening, when the heat eases and the sea air turns pleasant.

Day three: Use your last day for the coast around Raposa and Lumiar, fishing places where the Atlantic shapes the daily rhythm. Keep it unhurried, and leave time to eat before you go.