The Northeast, Brazil
São Luís is served by Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ), approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city center.
SLZ is a regional airport with basic facilities.
The Carajás Railway runs through São Luís, mainly for cargo. It has passenger service (Executivo, Econômica) connecting to mining regions in Pará state. Book tickets in advance.
São Luís has a main bus terminal (Rodoviária de São Luís). Reputable companies like Guanabara, Expresso Guanabara, and Satélite Norte operate routes to Fortaleza, Teresina, Belém, Recife, and Brasília.
Major car rental companies (Localiza, Unidas, Movida, Hertz, Avis) have offices at SLZ. Needs a valid home driver's license and strongly an International Driving Permit (IDP). Minimum age 21/25 with credit card.
Parking in the historic center is difficult and limited. Seek paid parking lots (Estacionamento) for security. On-street parking may need payment via a "blue zone" (Zona azul) system (purchase ticket from street vendors).
Less common for tourists. While some local shops might offer them, they frequently have higher safety risks due to traffic conditions, road quality, and potentially less reliable maintenance. Not generally recommended.
São Luís does not have a widespread city-wide bicycle sharing program. Some hotels or tour operators might offer bicycle rentals for local use, especially for leisure rides along coastal avenues.
The most relevant sea travel for tourists is the ferry service connecting São Luís to Alcântara, a historic town across the São Marcos Bay.
Tourist-focused river transportation is limited within São Luís itself.
Brazil does not charge specific exit fees or taxes to departing international tourists at its airports beyond what is typically included in the airfare. Review your flight ticket details to confirm all fees are covered.
For domestic flights from SLZ, arrive approximately 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled departure. For international connections, allow 2-3 hours at your transfer airport for re-checking luggage and international departure procedures.
Check in online for your flights whenever possible. This spares time at the airport and simplifies your departure process. Confirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure.
Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ) has basic amenities for departing travelers.
The main bus terminal (Rodoviária de São Luís) operates as a hub for long-distance bus travel.
For flights from SLZ, it is good to arrive approximately 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time.
If connecting through another Brazilian city (e.g., São Paulo, Rio), allow a 2-3 hour buffer at your transfer airport for re-checking luggage and international procedures.
Arrive at the bus terminal at least 30-45 minutes before your bus departure to find your gate and board comfortably.
Confirm your flight or bus schedule the day before departure. Traffic to the airport or bus terminal can be heavy during rush hours, so plan your transit time accordingly.
