Among the exhibitors, the Maranhão Tourism Department, represented by Tourism Secretary Socorro Araújo, stood out by presenting the state's rich cultural and natural diversity, attracting attention to Maranhão as a tourist destination that values sustainability and local culture. In an interview, Socorro Araújo discussed the initiatives to boost tourism in the state and the economic opportunities generated by the sector.
Strengthening Tourism: A Collective and Progressive Construction
Socorro Araújo pointed out that the development of tourism in Maranhão is the result of progressive work, which involves multiple actions and collaborations between the government and the technical team of the secretariat. “Governor Carlos Brandão has an entrepreneurial outlook and believes in tourism as an activity capable of improving the quality of life of the people of Maranhão,” she stated. According to Araújo, the current administration has invested in advertising and promotion to consolidate the state as a tourist destination with great cultural and natural appeal.
Cultural and Natural Heritage and the Riches of Maranhão
Maranhão boasts a unique cultural and natural heritage, recognized by UNESCO in three categories: historical, intangible and natural heritage. The capital São Luís, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, has one of the largest collections of Portuguese tiles in Latin America. The secretary also highlighted the “Bumba Meu Boi” and the Lençóis Maranhenses, with its vast fields of dunes and lagoons, as cultural and natural landmarks that arouse the interest of tourists from Brazil and around the world.
Chapada das Mesas has Adventure and Nature Integrated
Chapada das Mesas, located in the south of Maranhão, is another highlight of the state, famous for its waterfalls and trails. The region offers an immersive experience in nature, with crystal clear and pleasant waters that stand out as adventure tourism spots. “Chapada das Mesas has waterfalls, trails, adventure tourism and a rich gastronomy”, reported Socorro Araújo, highlighting the potential of the place to attract nature lovers and outdoor activities.
Reggae Maranhense, Afro-descendant Culture and Local Identity
Another notable cultural aspect of Maranhão is reggae, which has gained a unique presence in the region. Influenced by the maritime trade at the port of Itaqui, reggae was incorporated into the daily life of the people of Maranhão and is now part of the local cultural identity. São Luís is known as the Brazilian capital of reggae, and the state has its own style of dance, called "garradinha". The secretary highlighted the importance of reggae as not only a form of entertainment, but also a potential generator of business and opportunities, as an authentic and innovative tourist attraction.
Connectivity and Expansion of the Air Network
Socorro Araújo also highlighted the importance of air connections to facilitate access to Maranhão. The state currently has direct flights from major Brazilian capitals such as São Paulo, Brasília, Belo Horizonte, and Rio de Janeiro, as well as connections with other regions in the Northeast and North of Brazil. “With this air network, we can attract more tourists and give visibility to the state,” Araújo emphasized.
Experience and Vision for Tourism
With extensive experience in the sector, Socorro Araújo emphasized the importance of aligning tourism with economic and social policies, so that it can be a vector for sustainable development and social inclusion in Maranhão. The secretary highlighted that her career, from university professor and course coordinator to her current position, allows her a comprehensive understanding of the transformative potential of tourism.
Maranhão's participation in Festuris 2024 reinforces the state's commitment to investing in the tourism sector as a strategy to promote culture, boost the economy and generate opportunities for the local population.
Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.