river · Paulino Neves, MA
Rio Novo
Formed about a century ago when dunes dammed an older river, it runs through the town, which for a long time bore its name. It's navigable by small boats, and its calm waters, lined with mangroves, are good for swimming and kayaking.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Rio Novo
The Rio Novo is the river that cuts through the middle of Paulino Neves, on the eastern coast of Maranhão, in the Pequenos Lençóis region. The name (New River) makes sense: it formed about a hundred years ago, when sand from the dunes blocked the bed of an older river and the water of a nearby lagoon overflowed, opening a new course.
The river is so tied to the place that the town was long known as Rio Novo, or Rio Novo dos Lençóis. Many residents still use that name, even after the municipality, created in 1994, was named Paulino Neves.
The waters are calm and the banks have mangroves, coconut palms and sandy stretches. It's where locals and visitors go swimming, and it's good for kayaking and stand-up paddling. Small boats go down the river to its mouth, in the Barra do Tatu area, passing through the mangroves.
It's a relaxed outing, good for families and for resting after a day on the dunes. The swimming spots are close to downtown and don't require a long walk.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One or two hours are enough for a swim and a kayak ride; the boat trip to the river mouth takes a good part of a morning or afternoon.
Best time
In the sunny season, from the second half of the year to year-end, and in the late afternoon, when the light is softer over the water and the mangroves.
How to get there
The river runs through downtown Paulino Neves, and the swimming spots can be reached on foot or by car. The town lies between Barreirinhas and Tutóia and is reached on the MA-315 highway.
Tip
Boat and kayak trips to the river mouth are booked with local operators and guides in town; agree on the route and duration before you set out.
A look at the place
Rio Novo in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rio Novo
Can I swim in the Rio Novo, in Paulino Neves?
Yes. The water is calm and the river is where locals and visitors swim, with access points near downtown.
Why is the river called Rio Novo?
Because it's recent (novo means new): it formed about a hundred years ago, when sand from the dunes blocked the bed of an older river and the water of a lagoon overflowed, opening a new bed.
Was Paulino Neves once called Rio Novo?
Yes. The town was long known as Rio Novo, or Rio Novo dos Lençóis, and many residents still use that name.
Are there boat trips on the Rio Novo?
Yes. Small boats go down the river through the mangroves to its mouth, in the Barra do Tatu area. There are also kayak and stand-up paddle outings, booked with local operators.
Is there an entrance fee for the Rio Novo?
Access to the river is free. Boat, kayak and stand-up paddle outings are paid and booked in town.