What You Should Know About Maceio - A Maceio FAQ
Where is Maceio?
Maceio is located on Brazil's northeast coast, in the state of Alagoas. This area is known for its wonderful beaches and traditional Brazilian culture. Maceio is considered the cultural center of Brazil's entire northeast. It was here that European settlers first settled in Brazil. The beaches have clear, green water, white sand and colorful reefs. Maceio is a growing tourist destination.
What Is There To Do In Maceio?
First off, there are the beaches. This is the main reason why people come from all over the world to Maceio. For about 30 kilometers to the north and south along the coast, the area is full of wonderful beaches. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing at many of the area's beaches.
But, Maceio is not all about beaches. This is one of the best places to see traditional Brazilian culture. There are lots of small villages, and in the city of Maceio itself there is still quite a bit of colonial architecture. Maceio has more museums and bigger cultural festivals than anywhere else in the area.
Maceio is also a great place to buy locally made crafts. Northeastern Brazil is known especially for its intricate lacework.
Is It A Tourist Trap?
Not yet! Maceio is a growing tourist destination. It's just starting to be on the map of places to hit in Brazil, so now is a great time to enjoy it. There are lots of crowded urban beaches with a party atmosphere, or you can enjoy a quiet, relaxing day on one of the area's more remote beaches.
How Do I Get There?
Maceio has an international airport with flights coming mostly from Sao Paolo, Rio, and other countries in South America. It is also accessible by bus from any of Brazil's major cities. It is not far from Recife and Natal, two other major tourist destinations. Many tours include a stopover in Maceio. Highway AL-101 goes through Maceio going from north to south, or you can get there by taking BR-104 from the northwest.
What's The Best Way To Handle Cash?
Most places take major credit cards, so you don't need to bring everything in cash. It's best to carry small amounts of cash and use travelers checks and credit cards for bigger purchases. Maceio is a good sized city and there are plenty of banks and ATM's where you can withdraw cash.
Is It Safe?
Maceio is much safer than places like Rio and Sao Paolo, but you should still take basic precautions. Keep your money on a money belt or belly pack, make copies of your documents, and use traveler's checks whenever possible. Avoid secluded urban areas at night and watch for pickpockets in crowded places.
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Cultural Event
With Maceio cultural events, you can see all the great music, dances and festivals the northeastern Brazil has to offer. The Festa Junina is the most popular, but there are many Maceio cultural events held all year round for visitors to enjoy.
Maceio Beach Tips
Before you head for Maceio's beaches, make sure you've gotten everything ready. These beach tips will help you plan your trip.
Brazil Travel Tips
Never been to Brazil before? Check out these Brazil travel tips. Make sure you know your Brazil travel tips before you head to Maceio for the beaches.
Barra Nova
Barra Nova is where the lagoon meets the ocean. Head down south to Barra Nova for a relaxing afternoon swinging in a handwoven hammock.
Barra De Santo Antonio
Barra de Santo Antonio is a great place to get away from it all. For urban beach excitement, stay in Maceio, but for a quiet trip to the wild Golden Coast beaches, head north to Barra de Santo Antonio.
Barra De Sao Miguel
Barra de Sao Miguel is a little way from Maceio, but it is well worth the trip. The long sandbar and beautiful reef that make up the Barra de Sao Miguel make it a great day trip from Maceio.