Tours and Agencies in Maceió: How to Book

Much of a trip to Maceió involves booked tours: a jangada (traditional raft) to the natural pools, a boat across Mundaú Lagoon, a buggy on the southern coast, a speedboat or catamaran in the north and full-day trips. This page shows how to book safely. Businesses appear in the listing below only when there’s a verifiable public source.

Who needs Cadastur

Under Law No. 11,771/2008, registration with the Ministry of Tourism (Cadastur) is mandatory for:

• travel agencies;
• tourist transport companies;
• event organizers;
• accommodation providers, theme parks and tourist campsites.

Tour guides must also be registered, and the profession is regulated by Law No. 8,623/1993. In Alagoas, Cadastur service is provided by the State Tourism Department, and public lookups are on the Cadastur website.

Natural pool rules

Maceió’s natural pools lie within the Costa dos Corais APA, a federal protected area managed by ICMBio.

• Pajuçara: tour jangadas operate on a defined stretch of beach, organized by a Maceió City Hall ordinance.
• Ipioca: City Hall has regulated trips to the Tatu and Português pools, with a daily limit on boats. At Tatu, only jangadas are allowed.

All these trips depend on low tide. Before booking, check the Maceió tide table and be wary of anyone selling the trip for a high-tide time.

What to ask before paying

1. What’s the route and how long is each stop?
2. Does the price include transport, fees, life jackets and equipment?
3. Does the trip depend on the tide? At what time?
4. What’s the policy in case of rain, rough seas or cancellation?
5. What’s the agency’s or guide’s Cadastur number?

Lagoon tours

The 9 Islands tour on Mundaú Lagoon leaves from the Pontal da Barra area and travels through the channels and islands of the lagoon complex. It doesn’t depend on the sea tide like the pools do, but it is subject to wind and rain. Ask how many stops are included, whether there’s time for a swim and whether the boat has life jackets for all passengers, including children.

Buggies, quad bikes and tour vehicles

On buggy tours, check that the driver is accredited, the vehicle is in good condition and there are seat belts. Agree on the route and stops before setting off.

Long day trips

Full-day tours, such as those to the state’s northern coast or the São Francisco River, involve many hours on the road. Check the departure and return times, the stops and what’s included. See the options in Maceió tours.

Payment and complaints

Prefer payments with a receipt and keep the conversation in which the price was agreed. If there’s a problem, complain to the company first, in writing. If it’s not resolved, contact the Procon (consumer protection agency) in your state or consumidor.gov.br. General tips in Maceió safety.

For agencies, local operators and guides

Do you serve tourists in Maceió? Make a free listing and include your Cadastur number to speed up the check.