Canary Island: An enchanting destination in the Parnaíba Delta
Ilha das Canárias, located in the Parnaíba Delta in Piauí, is an enchanting and relatively unknown tourist destination that offers an authentic experience close to nature.
The island is the second largest in the Delta and is part of the Parnaíba Delta Natural Park, known for its exuberant landscapes, rich biodiversity and traditional communities.
Ilha das Canárias is located on the border between Maranhão and Piauí, within Maranhão’s ecological reserve.
History of the Canary Islands
Ilha das Canárias is a fishing village with more than 2,500 inhabitants. Its history dates back to 1806, when a fisherman from Acaraú in Ceará, accompanied by three companions, was attracted by the abundant fish production and the desire to set up corral fishing in the Barra dos mergulhões.
This region was called Canárias because of the large number of birds called canaries and a plant called canarana, which was used to feed the animals.
From that moment on, people began to travel to the Canary Islands, also known as da canarana.
Today, Ilha das Canárias is a nature reserve and part of the Delta do Rio Parnaíba Marine Reserve. Its population of about 2,500 inhabitants is spread over four villages: Canárias, Passarinho, Torto and Caiçara.
There are inns and restaurants, making it ideal for tourism.
Ilha das Canárias is one of the most beautiful and quiet islands on the north-east coast. It is part of an archipelago of 80 islands, where tourists are dazzled by the region’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife: dunes, mangroves, igarapés, crayfish, alligators and countless birds that nest along the rivers.
It is an incredible forest of hanging roots rising from the sea, dunes that stretch to infinity, revealing the charms of a natural paradise rediscovered by Europeans in the north-east.
Video about Canary Island in the Parnaíba Delta
Canary Island Tourist Attractions
- Boat Trips: The best way to get to know the Canary Islands and its surroundings is to take a boat trip along the creeks, canals and rivers that cut through the delta. These trips offer the chance to see the local fauna, including guarás (red-plumed birds), herons, caimans and other species.
- Ecological trails: The island has several trails that allow visitors to explore the typical vegetation of the delta, such as the mangrove and restinga areas. The walks are ideal for observing the local flora and fauna, as well as enjoying the region’s unique scenery.
- Traditional communities: The Canary Islands are home to traditional fishing communities that live a simple life, preserving the customs and traditions of their ancestors. Visiting these communities is an enriching cultural experience where you can learn about the local way of life, handicrafts and typical cuisine.
- Watching the flock of guarás: One of the most magical moments in the Canary Islands is watching the flock of guarás at dusk. These birds, with their intense red plumage, return to the mangroves to sleep, creating a visual spectacle against the sky at sunset.
- Beaches and River Swimming: The island has river beaches and quiet swimming areas where visitors can relax and cool off in the delta waters. The beaches are practically deserted and offer a peaceful and paradisiacal environment.
- Artisanal Fishing : Fishing is a traditional activity in the Canary Islands and visitors can join local fishermen in their daily activities or even take part in an artisanal fishing trip. This experience offers an authentic insight into island life.
Parnaíba Delta
Tourist tips
- Access: Canary Island can be reached by boat, usually from the city of Parnaíba in Piauí. The boat trip to the island is part of the experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Parnaíba Delta along the way.
- Accommodation: The island offers some simple accommodation options, such as inns and chalets, often run by locals. Accommodation is simple but comfortable, and provides an immersive experience of nature.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Canary Islands is during the dry season, from July to December, when the weather is more favourable for walking and outdoor activities. During the rainy season, from January to June, the water level rises, which can change the conditions of some excursions, but also intensifies the exuberance of the vegetation.
- Local Guide: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, not only to help you navigate the island and its surroundings, but also to learn more about the local fauna, flora and culture.
Canary Island in the Parnaíba Delta
Ecotourism
The Canary Islands offer an authentic experience, far from mass tourism, where visitors can get in touch with nature and local culture. It is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity, natural beauty and direct contact with the simple, traditional life of the communities of the Parnaíba Delta.
A visit to Canary Island is a unique opportunity to explore one of Brazil’s richest and best preserved ecosystems, on a journey that mixes adventure, culture and nature in stunning scenery.
Canary Islands and Parnaíba Delta Guide
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