Delta do Parnaíba

Parnaíba Delta: the only open sea delta in the Americas

The Parnaíba River Delta, also known as the Delta of the Americas, is one of Brazil’s most impressive geographical phenomena.

Located between the states of Piauí and Maranhão, it forms where the Parnaíba River meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating one of the few open sea deltas in the world.

The Parnaíba Delta is a natural treasure of Brazil, offering a unique combination of scenic beauty, biodiversity and adventure.

It is the ideal destination for those seeking authentic experiences in the lush north-eastern landscape.

Location and size

The delta covers an area of about 2,700 square kilometres, of which 35% is in the state of Piauí and 65% in Maranhão. It is the only open sea delta in the Americas and the third largest in the world, after the deltas of the Mekong (Asia) and the Nile (Africa).

Islands and formation

The Parnaíba Delta is made up of 73 river islands, formed by the force of water and wind, as well as countless channels and streams. The five main branches of the delta are

  • Igaraçu
  • Canary
  • Cashew
  • Watermelon
  • Tutóia

Main islands

  • Ilha das Canárias: The second largest island in the Delta, with about 2,500 inhabitants spread over the villages of Canárias, Passarinho, Torto and Caiçara.
  • Ilha do Caju: Known for its shifting dunes, diverse fauna and unspoilt landscapes.
  • Ilha dos Poldros: Famous for its deserted beaches and unspoilt nature, ideal for ecotourism.

Ecosystems and Biodiversity

The Delta is home to a rich biodiversity, with ecosystems that include

  • Mangroves
  • Mobile dunes
  • Riparian forests
  • Resting areas
  • White Sand Beaches
  • Areas of Atlantic Forest

Animals include guarás (red birds), caimans, capybaras, manatees, sea turtles and various species of migratory birds, fish and crustaceans.

One of the most emblematic spectacles is the Revoada dos Guarás at dusk.

Environmental protection

The delta is protected by the Delta do Parnaíba Environmental Protection Area (APA), created in August 1996, which covers 307,590 hectares in Piauí, Maranhão and Ceará.

Sustainable tourism

Tourism is one of the main economic activities, with ecotourism standing out.

The main tourist attractions are

  • Boat trips along the canals and streams
  • Observation of flora and fauna
  • Flight of the Guarás
  • River and sea bathing
  • Dune and mangrove trails
  • Sport Fishing
  • Visits to traditional communities

Base towns: Parnaíba (PI) and Tutóia (MA), with good infrastructure.

Local culture

The riverside communities maintain centuries-old traditions linked to fishing, handicrafts, cuisine and religious festivals. Highlights include seafood cuisine such as crab and fried fish with baião de dois.

How to get there

  • By air: Parnaíba International Airport (PI)
  • By land: Motorway access from Teresina, São Luís and Fortaleza
  • By River: Departures from Porto dos Tatus (PI) and Tutóia (MA)