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Alagoas
Alagoas Travel Guide
North-East Brazil
Alagoas is a small northeastern state known for its clear-water beaches and coral reefs such as Maragogi, and São Miguel dos Milagres
About Alagoas, Brazil
Alagoas is a small but culturally rich state located in the northeastern region of Brazil, along the Atlantic coast. It covers an area of approximately 27,800 square kilometers and has a population of around 3.3 million people. The state capital, Maceió, is known for its stunning coastline, featuring white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. Historically, Alagoas played an important role during the sugarcane plantation era in colonial Brazil and retains a strong Afro-Brazilian cultural influence today. Despite being one of the smaller states by area and population, Alagoas is recognized for its vibrant traditions, music, and cuisine that contribute to the broader cultural mosaic of northeastern Brazil.
Economically, Alagoas has a primarily agricultural base, with sugarcane as its main crop, alongside other products such as coconuts, cassava, and tropical fruits. The state also relies on the production of textiles and footwear, which are significant contributors to its industrial sector. Tourism is a growing economic driver, especially along the coast, where fishing communities and resorts attract visitors. Although Alagoas has faced socioeconomic challenges and ranks lower in some development indicators compared to wealthier Brazilian states, it benefits from investments in infrastructure and initiatives aimed at diversifying its economy, including the expansion of services and small-scale manufacturing.
Geographically, Alagoas boasts a beautiful and diverse natural landscape that supports its tourism appeal. The coastline features some of Brazil’s most picturesque beaches, such as Praia do Francês and Maragogi, the latter famous for its natural coral reefs and clear pools known as the “Galés.” Inland, the state’s terrain transitions into tropical forests and low hills, with rivers such as the São Francisco shaping the landscape. The region also includes ecological reserves like the Parque Municipal de Maceió and the Lagoa do Roteiro, which protect local flora and fauna. Alagoas’s blend of beach resorts, historical towns, and natural attractions makes it an inviting destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences in northeastern Brazil.
Quick Facts: Alagoas
Population of Alagoas: Approximately 3.3 million
Area of Alagoas: 27,767 square kilometres
Major Airports in Alagoas:
Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport (Maceió)
Palmares Airport (Palmeira dos Índios)
Climate and Best Time to Visit Alagoas:
Tropical
Rainy season: April to July
Dry season: August to March
Best time to visit: September to March
Top Attractions in Alagoas
Must-try Regional Dishes in Alagoas
Alagoas cuisine features dishes built around fresh seafood, coconut milk, and regional staples like rice, cassava, and green vegetables, resulting in a tropical, richly seasoned food shaped by the state's Indigenous and Afro-Brazilian roots.
5 Must-Try Regional Dishes in Alagoas:
Sururu de Capote – A traditional stew made with sururu (mussels from the Mundaú Lagoon), cooked in coconut milk with garlic, onion, tomatoes, and cilantro, usually served with rice and pirão (cassava gravy).
Chiclete de Camarão – A creamy, stretchy shrimp dish made with cheese and coconut milk, creating a rich, indulgent texture reminiscent of melted chewing gum (“chiclete”).
Peixada Alagoana – A vibrant fish stew prepared with local fish, vegetables, eggs, and coconut milk, served with rice and pirão, a staple in festive meals.
Carne de Sol com Purê de Macaxeira – Sun-dried beef served with a creamy manioc (cassava) purée, often topped with melted butter and crispy onions.
Bolo de Rolo de Goma – A regional twist on the traditional bolo de rolo, made with manioc starch (goma), layered with guava paste in thin, rolled sheets
Festivals & Events in Alagoas
Festa de Bom Jesus dos Navegantes – Penedo & Maceió: One of Alagoas's most iconic religious celebrations, held in January in riverfront cities like Penedo and coastal areas of Maceió. It features maritime processions, decorated boats, and folkloric performances honoring the patron of sailors and fishermen.
Festa de Nossa Senhora da Conceição – Marechal Deodoro: A major Catholic event in December honoring the patron saint of Alagoas’s first capital
Carnaval de Maceió (Carnaval do Jaraguá): Alagoas’s capital hosts a pre-Lenten carnival with colorful blocos, frevo dancers, maracatus, and baianas, especially in the Jaraguá district
Festival de Folguedos Populares – Maceió: Held in August, this event highlights Alagoas’s folk traditions, featuring performances of Guerreiros, Cheganças, Pastoril, and Cavalhadas
Guerreiro Festival – Maceió & Interior: One of Alagoas’s most distinctive folkloric performances, this festival features the Guerreiro (warrior)
Festa Junina (São João & São Pedro) – Arapiraca & Maceió: June Festival brings large-scale arraiais (outdoor gathering) with bonfires, quadrilhas, traditional food, and forró music, especially in Arapiraca
Festa do Padroeiro São Sebastião – Paripueira & Several Towns: A feast day celebrated in January with processions, masses, and cultural events
Lavagem do Bomfim – Maceió: Inspired by Bahia's famous ritual, this Afro-Brazilian celebration blends Candomblé and Catholic traditions, and features the ritual washing of church steps
Festival de Inverno de Viçosa: A winter cultural festival held in the town of Viçosa with music, crafts, and local gastronomy
Bienal Internacional do Livro de Alagoas – Maceió: A significant literary and cultural event held every two years, attracting authors, educators, publishers, and thousands of readers
