The Alcântara City Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Brazil’s colonial heritage. Departing from São Luís do Maranhão, the tour transports guests aboard a catamaran to the historic town of Alcântara, where they can discover over 300 preserved buildings and the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins. Led by an expert guide, the tour provides a personalized experience, ensuring a maximum group size of 20. From captivating views to local cuisine recommendations, this immersive journey through Alcântara’s rich history and architecture is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours in Sao Luis Do Maranhao.
Good To Know
- The Alcântara City Tour offers a guided exploration of over 300 well-preserved colonial buildings and the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins.
- The tour lasts 3 to 7 hours, with flexible departure times from 06:00 AM to 11:00 AM, depending on the tide.
- The tour includes roundtrip transfers, public boat transportation, and a maximum group size of 20 travelers for an intimate experience.
- Visitors can enjoy the rich history and architecture of Alcântara, while also enjoying the local cuisine and tranquil surroundings.
- The tour is available year-round, with a starting price of $84.00 and a lowest price guarantee offered by the operator.
Tour Overview and Details
The Alcântara City Tour departs from São Luis do Maranhão, Brazil, aboard a sleek catamaran.
The journey lasts between 3 to 7 hours, tide-dependent, with departure times from 06:00 AM to 11:00 AM. An expert Portuguese-speaking guide leads the tour through Alcântara’s historic cobblestone streets, highlighting over 300 well-preserved colonial buildings and the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins.
Lunch isn’t included, allowing visitors to explore the various traditional restaurants.
The tour includes transfers IN/OUT, boat transfer (public transportation), entrance tickets, and a maximum of 20 travelers per group.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sao Luis do Maranhao.
Inclusions and Logistics
The Alcântara City Tour includes transfers in and out, boat transfer (public transportation), entrance tickets, and a maximum of 20 travelers per group.
Visitors can expect to receive confirmation upon booking, though infants must sit on laps. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
However, there’s good news – travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts for free.
Operating Schedule
Tours operate Tuesday to Sunday, with opening hours from 07:00 AM to 10:00 AM for 2024 and 2025. This schedule ensures visitors can explore the historic city during the cooler morning hours.
The tour adheres to this consistent timetable, allowing travelers to plan their itinerary with confidence.
Some key details about the operating schedule:
- Departures are available from 06:00 AM to 11:00 AM, depending on the tide.
- The tour duration ranges from 3 to 7 hours, also tide-dependent.
- The tour operates year-round, making it a convenient option for visitors throughout 2024 and 2025.
Pricing and Availability
Prices for the Alcântara City Tour start at $84.00, varying based on the group size. The tour operator offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.
Departures run from 06:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Tuesday through Sunday, with tours lasting between 3 to 7 hours depending on the tide. Bookings are confirmed upon purchase, though infants must sit on laps as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. The Alcântara City Tour provides an affordable way to explore the historical city’s well-preserved colonial architecture.
Traveler Reviews and Insights
The Alcântara City Tour has received positive reviews from travelers. The tour’s highlights, including the well-preserved colonial buildings and the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins, have been widely praised.
However, some travelers have noted limited tourist infrastructure, with some museums closed and a lack of craft stores.
To improve the experience, visitors are recommended to:
- Wear comfortable clothing and apply sunscreen for the tour.
- Explore the tranquil environment and high-quality inns and restaurants in Alcântara.
- Be prepared for a limited selection of activities compared to more developed tourist destinations.
Historic Cobblestone Streets
One of the highlights of the Alcântara City Tour is its historic cobblestone streets. Winding through the city’s well-preserved colonial architecture, these charming streets offer visitors a glimpse into Brazil’s past.
Led by an expert Portuguese-speaking guide, guests can explore over 300 colonial buildings that line the cobblestones, each with its own unique history and architectural style.
The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins, a testament to the city’s rich heritage.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per group, the Alcântara City Tour provides an intimate and immersive experience amidst the city’s historic charm.
Iconic Matriz De São Matias Ruins
The iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins are a prominent highlight of the Alcântara City Tour. This historic Catholic church, dating back to the 17th century, stands as a testament to the region’s rich colonial past.
Visitors can explore:
- The striking architectural features, including its distinctive white facade and ornate baroque details.
- The atmospheric interior, with its crumbling walls and glimpses of the original altars and religious artwork.
- The surrounding plaza, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Mosquito River.
These evocative ruins provide a captivating window into Alcântara’s bygone era, leaving a lasting impression on all who explore them.
Traditional Restaurants and Cuisine
Culinary delights abound in Alcântara, where visitors can savor the region’s traditional cuisine at a variety of local eateries.
Diners can indulge in fresh seafood dishes, hearty stews, and vibrant tropical fruit juices. Many restaurants showcase the influences of Portuguese, African, and Indigenous culinary traditions, offering a truly authentic dining experience.
While lunch isn’t included in the Alcântara City Tour, the tour guide can provide recommendations for the best spots to try regional specialties.
With a range of menu options and price points, visitors are sure to find something to satisfy their palates in this historic city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Offered in English?
The tour is led by a Portuguese-speaking guide, but it’s unclear if English translation or audio guides are available. Visitors should check with the tour operator for language support options before booking.
Can I Visit the Alcântara Museum During the Tour?
No, the Alcântara City Tour does not include a visit to the local museum. The tour focuses on exploring the well-preserved colonial buildings and the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins along the city’s historic cobblestone streets.
Are There Any Shopping Opportunities in Alcântara?
The tour description indicates there are limited shopping opportunities in Alcântara, with a lack of craft stores mentioned. Visitors can explore the traditional restaurants, but the main focus is on the well-preserved colonial architecture and historic sites.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and sunscreen are recommended. Visitors should dress for the warm, tropical climate and be prepared to spend time exploring the historic streets on foot.
How Accessible Is the Boat for People With Disabilities?
Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. The passage states that the boat transfers are via public transportation, which may not accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Visitors should consider this limitation when booking the tour.
The Sum Up
The Alcântara City Tour provides an immersive exploration of Brazil’s colonial heritage. Travelers discover over 300 historic buildings and the iconic Matriz de São Matias ruins, all while enjoying local cuisine recommendations and captivating views. With transfers, a maximum group size of 20, and a duration of 3 to 7 hours, the tour ensures a personal and enriching experience for visitors.