Lençóis Maranhenses
White sand dunes as far as the eye can see, dotted with turquoise freshwater lagoons. A landscape unlike anywhere else in the world, on the coast of Maranhão.
Region
Maranhão, Northeast
Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights
Best time to go
June to September
Getting there
Flight to São Luís, then about a 4-hour drive
A desert that fills with water
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park covers about 155,000 hectares (roughly 380,000 acres) between the ocean and the forest. During the rainy season, water collects between the dunes and forms hundreds of lagoons where you can swim in warm fresh water.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2024, the park can be explored by 4×4, on foot, by boat on the Preguiças River or from the air. The dunes change shape with the wind, so no two visits are ever quite the same.
When to go
The lagoons depend on the rains: they fill up from January to May, are at their highest from June to September, then drop until the end of the year.
- June to September: lagoons full, the ideal time
- January to May: rainy season, the lagoons fill up
- October to December: lower lagoons, lots of wind
Months
Legend
Things to do
Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita
The two main tours from Barreirinhas: a 4×4 ride to the foot of the dunes, then a walk across the sand to the lagoons. The Lagoa Bonita tour ends at sunset.
Down the Preguiças River
By boat to the river mouth: the Pequenos Lençóis at Vassouras, the Mandacaru lighthouse and the Caburé peninsula, between river and ocean.
Atins, at the end of the dunes
A fishing village with sand streets, the starting point for less-visited lagoons and a renowned kitesurfing spot.
Scenic flight in a small plane
From the air, the park reveals the full extent of the lagoons and the pattern of the dunes all the way to the sea. A short flight, to be booked depending on the weather.
Crossing on foot
For strong walkers: a guided trek of several days across the park, with nights in local homes in the oases.
Where to stay
Barreirinhas
For a first visit. The most convenient small town: the starting point for the Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita tours and the Preguiças River, with the widest choice of hotels.
Atins
For peace and quiet and kitesurfing. A tranquil village at the mouth of the Preguiças River, with charming pousadas and direct access to the dunes.
Santo Amaro
To get off the beaten path. On the western side of the park, more remote, with lagoons you can sometimes reach on foot straight from the village.
Combine with
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Combine
Our tours
Tours
FAQ
Can you swim in the lagoons?
Yes. They’re rainwater lagoons, fresh and warm, and most are shallow. Swimming is part of every excursion.
How many days should I plan?
Three nights let you see the big lagoons and the Preguiças River. With four or five nights, you can add Atins or a scenic flight without rushing.
Can I visit the park on my own, by car?
No. Private vehicles aren’t allowed in the dunes: visits are made by 4×4 with a licensed driver-guide, whom we book for you.
Are the lagoons full year-round?
No. They’re at their highest from June to September. Toward the end of the year, many dry up; the landscape is still spectacular, but swimming is more limited.
Tempted by this trip?
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