The Island of Tiles and Stories

A city of music, legends, and layered history, São Luís, the capital of Maranhão, is one of Brazil’s most culturally unique destinations. Nicknamed the “Island of Love” and known for its colonial charm and Afro-Brazilian spirit, São Luís is where Portuguese tiles, Caribbean rhythms, and Northeastern soul come together.

Why Visit?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, São Luís boasts one of the largest collections of preserved Portuguese colonial architecture in Latin America. Its historic center is a maze of cobblestone streets, pastel-colored mansions, and ornate tiled façades that shine under the sun. Walk through this living museum and you’ll feel the echoes of centuries past.

But São Luís is far from frozen in time—it’s alive with culture. The city is the birthplace of the reggae scene in Brazil, affectionately known as the “Brazilian Jamaica,” where the rhythm drifts from windows and beach bars day and night. It’s also home to the Bumba Meu Boi, a spectacular folk celebration blending music, dance, and vibrant costumes in a deeply rooted and joyful tradition.

Nearby, you can explore the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a surreal desert of white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons—one of Brazil’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

The Vibe

São Luís is soulful, rhythmic, and full of character. It’s a city where cultures meet and memories linger—where music plays on every corner and stories are told through tiles, dances, and flavors. Whether you’re diving into folklore, admiring colonial beauty, or simply swaying to a reggae beat, São Luís will touch your heart with its magic and authenticity.