Discover the Enchanting Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses
If you’re thinking about visiting Lençóis Maranhenses, this guide will introduce you to one of Brazil’s most incredible natural wonders.
Known for its vast sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons, visiting Lençóis Maranhenses offers a unique adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.”
Visiting Lençóis Maranhenses is a dream for many travelers.
With its stunning landscapes and unparalleled beauty, it’s important to know the best times to go and how to prepare for your trip.
This guide to visiting Lençóis Maranhenses will help you make the most of your experience.Imagine an endless sea of soft, white golden sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by crystal-clear blue and green lagoons.
This surreal landscape belongs to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, one of Brazil’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Located in the northeastern state of Maranhão, this unique desert-like expanse is unlike any other place on Earth.
A Unique Desert Oasis
Unlike typical deserts, Lençóis Maranhenses receives regular rainfall, filling the valleys between its dunes with rainwater and forming stunning seasonal lagoons.
This rare phenomenon occurs mainly between January and June, with May being the peak season for the lagoons.
The most famous among them, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita, offer mesmerizing views and refreshing swims in the warm tropical climate.
The park covers an area of 155,000 hectares and was established in 1998 by ICMBio.
It extends over three municipalities: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and Primeira Cruz.
Outside the park, visitors can also explore regions like Tutóia and Paulino Neves, known as the “Pequenos Lençóis1,” which feature similar landscapes of dunes and lagoons.
Breathtaking Views from Above
For a truly awe-inspiring perspective, take a scenic flight over the dunes.
From the air, the undulating landscape looks like a giant bedsheet – which is where the name “Lençóis” (which means “bedsheets” in Portuguese) comes from.
What to Do in Lençóis Maranhenses
Swim in the Lagoons
The most famous lagoons are Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita.
These crystal-clear pools of rainwater offer a refreshing swim surrounded by towering dunes.
For a less crowded experience, visit Lagoa da Esperança or Lagoa do Peixe.
Explore by 4×4
A guided off-road adventure is the best way to navigate the vast expanse of sand and reach the most stunning spots.
Tours typically depart from Barreirinhas, the main gateway to the park.
Visit Atins
For a more secluded experience, head to Atins, a small fishing village on the edge of the park.
Here, you can enjoy kite surfing, fresh seafood, and a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Witness an Unforgettable Sunset
Climbing to the top of a dune at dusk offers a spectacular view of the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple.
How to Visit Lençóis Maranhenses
Getting There
The gateway to the park is the town of Barreirinhas, located about 245 km from São Luís, the capital of Maranhão.
Barreirinhas: The Main Tourist Hub
Barreirinhas is the most developed town for tourism in the region, offering the best selection of hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Highlights include:
- A lively riverside street with restaurants, bars, and artisan shops.
- Year-round tours, including visits to Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita (though they may dry up in the off-season).
- Unique excursions like scenic flights, UTV rides, and boat tours on the Rio Preguiças.
- Accommodation ranging from resorts like Porto Preguiças to charming pousadas and Airbnb chalets by the river.
- A relaxed nightlife with occasional live music.
- A 40-50 minute drive to reach the national park.
Atins, a nearby village accessible from Barreirinhas, is a rustic yet charming alternative, known for its sandy streets, boutique pousadas, and gourmet dining.
Some compare it to the Jericoacoara of the past, but Atins has its own uniq
Other entry points include Santo Amaro do Maranhão, which offers more direct access to some of the park’s best lagoons, and Atins, a charming village with a laid-back atmosphere and great kitesurfing opportunities.
Santo Amaro: The Hidden Gem
Santo Amaro, once difficult to reach, is now accessible via paved roads, making it an emerging destination.
Unlike Barreirinhas, it offers easier access to the park’s dunes and lagoons, with vehicles able to park close to the water.
Highlights include:
- A growing selection of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly inns.
- More lagoons that remain full even in the dry season.
- Shorter travel times to reach the park—just 10 minutes from town to the first dunes.
- More accessible tours with shaded seating areas near the lagoons.
- A quiet nightlife centered around dining and the town square.
Getting to the park overland takes time but is straightforward.
Booking Tours
Upon arrival in Barreirinhas, visitors are met by representatives from local tour companies offering various excursions.
Options range from day trips to Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Bonita, and the Rio Preguiças to multi-day treks across the park.
Guides ensure a safe and immersive experience, making it easy to explore the breathtaking landscapes.
Exploring the Park
To fully experience Lençóis Maranhenses, guided tours are highly recommended.
Options include off-road vehicle tours, scenic flights, and even multi-day hikes across the dunes.
Experienced local guides ensure a safe and enriching adventure through this unique ecosystem.
To the Dunes!
Tour companies in Barreirinhas provide transportation in rugged 4×4 vehicles to navigate the sandy roads.
The journey involves a ferry crossing over the Rio Preguiças and an hour-long ride through rough terrain before reaching the dunes.
Once there, visitors are greeted by a vast, breathtaking landscape, perfect for hiking and swimming in the turquoise lagoons.
Rio Preguiças and Caburé Beach
A boat tour along the Rio Preguiças offers a different perspective of the region.
Stops include the charming village of Mandacaru, where visitors can climb a lighthouse for panoramic views and learn about local traditions.
The journey continues to Caburé Beach, where visitors can relax by the ocean and enjoy fresh seafood.
How Many Days to Stay
For a complete experience, plan to stay at least three full days (four nights).
If you want to explore more remote areas, consider staying three nights in different locations, such as Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro. Even if you can only stay one night, visiting is still worthwhile—you’ll just leave wanting more!
Responsible Tourism and Conservation
Lençóis Maranhenses is a delicate ecosystem, and sustainable tourism practices are essential to its preservation.
Authorities regulate visitor access to minimize environmental impact and ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at this natural wonder.
Essential Travel Tips
If you’re planning on visiting Lençóis Maranhenses, it’s essential to pack appropriately for the climate and terrain.
Remember to bring plenty of water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear for your adventures.
Best Time to Visit
- The lagoons are at their fullest between May and September.
- Avoid visiting from October to April, when the lagoons dry up.
What to Pack
A drone or good camera to capture the surreal landscapes.
Plan Your Visit
Light clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
A waterproof bag to protect your electronics.
For the best experience, plan your trip between June and September, when the lagoons are at their fullest.
Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Lençóis Maranhenses offers an unparalleled journey through one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world.
Suggested Videos
- Lençóis Maranhenses Drone Aerial 4K Maranhão | Brazil Brasil
This video showcases breathtaking aerial footage of Lençóis Maranhenses in stunning 4K resolution.
Watch on YouTube - Should you Kite Atins? | Get High with Mike | Spot Guide
A detailed guide to kitesurfing in Atins, covering the best conditions and tips for enthusiasts.
Watch on YouTube - Lençóis Maranhenses 2023 4K Drone Tour | Maranhão Brazil
An updated 2023 tour featuring incredible high-definition footage of the national park.
Watch on YouTube - Solo Kiting Adventure in the Lencois Maranhenses – Brazil
A solo kitesurfing adventure through the dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses.
Watch on YouTube - Stunning 4K Drone Footage of Lencois Maranhenses, Brazil
Spectacular drone footage in 4K, capturing the unique beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses.
Watch on YouTube
These videos will give your readers a visual experience of Lençóis Maranhenses and its exciting activities. Let me know if you need any changes!
Lençóis Maranhenses is not just a destination—it’s a dreamlike adventure waiting to be explored. Pack your bags and get ready to witness one of Brazil’s most breathtaking natural wonders!
From shimmering blue lagoons to golden dunes stretching endlessly into the horizon, Lençóis Maranhenses is a place that must be seen to be believed. Are you ready for the journey of a lifetime?
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- “Pequenos Lençóis” can be translated as “Small Lençóis” or “Little Lençóis.”
This region is located along the Rio Preguiças, between Barreirinhas and Atins.
It features smaller dunes and lagoons similar to those in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park but on a reduced scale.
Unlike the main park, Pequenos Lençóis is easier to access and offers a stunning introduction to the region’s unique landscape.
Many boat tours along the Rio Preguiças include a stop here, allowing visitors to explore the dunes, swim in the lagoons, and take in breathtaking views. ↩︎
