FOZ DO SÃO FRANCISCO

The São Francisco River has strong symbolic importance in Brazil, and is nicknamed the "River of National Unity" in memory of the time, during the Second World War, when the only means of transporting food and manufactured goods between the south and north of the country was via the river's blue waters, as the sea lanes were cut off by German U-boats, Vargas's Brazil having finally chosen to side with the Allies.

Also known as the Velho Chico, the river rises in Minas Gerais and flows through the states of Bahia, Pernambuco, Sergipe and Alagoas. Between these last two states lies the mouth of the São Francisco River, and the trip is well worthwhile for those staying in one of these states. Travel from Maceio to Piaçabu (140 km), in the south of the state, from where boats depart for the river mouth. Stops for swimming and admiring the scenery are included. For those spending their vacations in Maceió, it's easier to get to the town of Piaçabuçu, in the Alagoas, from where the boat excursions to the meeting of the waters depart.

The scenery along the river is magnificent and makes for a pleasant outdoor excursion. During the trip, you can observe a beautiful forest and local fishing communities. The meeting of the waters may not be as spectacular as that of the Rio Negro and Solimões, as the river and sea are not as different in color, but the place has a unique beauty.