São Luís sets passenger record and new route boosts tourism

With a record number of passengers and a new route to Congonhas, São Luís strengthens tourism and positions Maranhão as a top summer destination.

As summer approaches, the Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport in São Luís is preparing for a surge in tourists choosing Maranhão for their year-end holidays. The growing flow reflects the state’s tourism expansion and increased air connectivity.

In July, the airport reached a historic milestone with more than 200,000 passengers in arrivals and departures — a 21% increase compared to 2024. According to Anac, Maranhão recorded a 9.27% rise in passenger traffic in the first half of this year, totaling 983,258 boardings and landings.

New direct route between São Luís and Congonhas

The state’s tourism growth gains new momentum with the launch of a direct flight between São Luís (SLZ) and Congonhas (SP), operated by LATAM since October 27. This marks the first time the Maranhão capital offers regular flights to one of Brazil’s busiest airports.

The route, part of the Motiva Aeroportos network expansion, operates Monday through Friday in both directions, connecting São Luís to all three major São Paulo airports: Congonhas, Guarulhos and Viracopos.

This expansion strengthens Maranhão’s position as a strategic destination in Brazil. With breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural diversity, the state attracts travelers seeking authentic experiences rooted in nature, gastronomy and local traditions.

Valparaíso Adventure Park: fun in nature

Among Maranhão’s main attractions is the Valparaíso Adventure Park, located in Paço do Lumiar, just 20 km from São Luís. It is the largest water park in the state and one of the largest in the Northeast, combining fun, adrenaline and nature.

The park features a 220-meter zip line, a 250-meter tree-climbing trail, and the Vumbora water slide with a 65-meter drop. Visitors can also enjoy the Isla Negra wave pool and the Ooba kids’ aquatic playground with 160,000 liters of water and interactive structures.

The park also includes a seven-hectare forest reserve, home to native species such as birds, capuchin monkeys and sloths, promoting environmental education alongside recreation.

Lençóis Maranhenses: UNESCO natural treasure

About 250 km from São Luís, the Lençóis Maranhenses remain one of Brazil’s most stunning natural attractions. The park contains the largest dune field in South America, where seasonal rainwater lagoons create a spectacular and unique landscape.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2024, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park highlights Maranhão’s commitment to environmental preservation and reinforces its status as a leading ecotourism destination in Brazil.