São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil? If you're planning to go to São Luís, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil

Based on the climate and weather in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in São Luís, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil by month

January

January in São Luís is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. It's important that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

February

February in São Luís is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

March

March in São Luís is hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you vacation in São Luís during April, you might see that it can be very hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May here is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

June

June in this region can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

July

If you visit São Luís during July, you are likely to see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you are traveling to São Luís in August, you will notice that it is really hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

September

If you visit São Luís during September, you are likely to find that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you are traveling to São Luís in October, you will notice that it is consistently hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to pick the correct type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

November

If you go to São Luís in November, you will notice that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Check that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

December

December here is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in São Luís. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

What to do in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil

São Luís, the capital city of Maranhão in Brazil is a beautiful destination that is overflowing with cultural history and legacy. With its picturesque streets, colonial houses, and vibrant markets, São Luís is a remarkable representation of the country's architectural and cultural heritage. With so much to see and do around this unique capital city, here are the top tourist attractions in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil.

1. Historical Center – The Historical Center of São Luís is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its wonderful pastel-colored buildings, picturesque streets, and stunning architecture. With much of this area preserved since the eighteenth century, visitors can take a glimpse back in time through an authentic glimpse of colonial Brazil. Walk around the streets, get up close to the grandiose houses, and appreciate the colorful murals across the walls.

2. Lagoa da Jansen – A perfect setting for a day outdoors, Lagoa da Jansen is a freshwater lagoon in São Luís, and a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Enjoy a tranquil picnic around the lake or savor some drinks at one of the many bars and restaurants in the area. There are many outdoor activities, from paddle-boarding to sailing that can be enjoyed here. One can't miss the sunsets from this scenic beauty, as the sky turns to a fascinating cluster of colors.

3. São Luís Market – For visitors who love a good market experience, São Luís Market is the place to visit. It is buzzing and vibrant, sure to draw visitors in with the colorful stalls that bursts with regional produce, arts, crafts, and souvenirs. Try your bargaining skills and enjoy tasting some of the delicious street food delicacies that are on offer around this place.

4. Jericoacoara National Park – Outside of São Luís, a little farther is Jericoacoara National Park. This park is famous for the sand dunes, freshwater lagoons, and endless beaches. Take a hike, rent a dune buggy or ride a horse to explore the remote areas of the park. Its lush flora and fauna make it the perfect spot for photographers to capture some unique moments of nature.

5. Saint Louis Castle – Saint Louis Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the southern part of the city. This enormous fortification was built by the French in 1667 and has been subsequently used by the Dutch and Portuguese. With cannons lined up on the battlements, stunning sea views and historic architecture, Saint Louis Castle is a must-visit spot for history lovers.

Conclusion

São Luís is an off-the-beaten-path destination ideal for travelers looking for something authentic and unique. From the historical center to the vast national parks, the city is a visual delight with something for everyone. Visit São Luís, and you will leave with memories lasting a lifetime. Do make sure to visit the above top tourist attractions of São Luís Maranhão, Brazil to complete your travel to this amazing city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Lombard, Illinois, United States of America, Khorugh, Tajikistan, Gilbertsville, Kentucky, United States of America, Espanola, Ontario, Canada, Marlborough, New Zealand, Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, Brazil, Puszczykowo, Poland, Manila, Philippines, Custer State Park, South Dakota, United States of America, Mandan, North Dakota, United States of America, and Apayao, Philippines.