National Park Lençóis Maranhenses
Located in the state of Maranhão, the attraction is part of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and its closest cities are: Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro do Maranhão. Marked by dunes of fine white sand and freshwater lagoons, it is impossible not to fall in love with this destination in Maranhão. This unique scenery attracts visitors from Brazil and all over the world, precisely because it is unique and unequaled. Wonderful all year round, there is no right time to get to know this phenomenon. But, even so, a good recommendation is to pay attention to the rainy season, when the lagoons get full, from May to September, is the peak of the destination's beauty.
However, despite the fact that Lençois is the main attraction, it is necessary to know the nearby cities for access, base, and lodging. The cities of Santo Amaro and Barreirinhas, the latter also known as “Portal dos Lençóis Maranhenses”, are great places to stay and get to know. To get to these places from São Luís, it is necessary to travel by land, either by transfer, bus, or hitchhiking.
Once you have chosen your base, all you have to do is plan your tours. This Brazilian desert is marked by beautiful lagoons to enjoy the hot days, among the most famous and indispensable in the itinerary are: Lagoa das Andorinhas, Lagoa da Gaivota and also the complete tour of Betânia, where besides the wonderful baths in “oasis” is also good to make a great meal, It is possible to hike for three days, crossing over the dunes, visiting stunning places, swimming in blue lagoons, and sleeping in communities, elevating your cultural experience.
When it comes to gastronomy, one can say that the Maranhão’s cuisine complements the paradisiacal scenery of the destination. Among many tasty dishes, the maranhense moqueca, which uses fish fillets and shrimp, and the cuxá rice are good choices to get to know the regional flavors. A more refreshing option is the Juçara, a fruit that looks a lot like the famous açaí.
Good to Know
Best time to Visit
Is it safe to travel
Languages spoken
Currency used
Recommend age
General Information
Geral tips
Be a Responsible Tourist: Always choose tours with guides and companies that respect the preservation rules of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. If you’re unsure, consult ICMBio to ensure the tour you’re considering is permitted.
Authorized Tours Only: Only take tours with accredited guides and vehicles. Authorized vehicles have stickers with their permit number and the National Park’s logo on the side. Guides should carry official ID badges.
Vehicle Restrictions: ATVs, motorcycles, and buggies are prohibited within the National Park, except for residents of isolated communities within Lençóis Maranhenses. Rally and enduro competitions are also forbidden.
No Alcohol or Fires: The consumption and sale of alcoholic beverages are not allowed within the National Park. Additionally, campfires and barbecues are strictly prohibited.
Keep the Water Clean: When swimming in the lagoons, avoid using oils and creams that could contaminate the water. The cleaner the water, the better for everyone. And of course, it’s important to leave no other types of waste behind. There are no public restrooms within the National Park, so any trash or waste must be taken out of the park. Be prepared with trash bags to minimize your environmental impact.
Stay Safe in the Dunes: Avoid exploring the dunes on your own, as it’s easy to get lost in the vast landscape. If you plan to cross the dunes by yourself, make sure you are well-prepared with navigation and survival skills, and leave your route details with someone you trust in case of an emergency. It’s best to contact ICMBio before your trip to ensure you’re ready for such an adventure. Solo excursions are recommended only for very experienced travelers.
Voltage Information: The standard voltage in Lençóis Maranhenses is 220V.
Basic Packing List
Essential Items:
📷 Camera and Waterproof Camera
💾 Plenty of Memory Cards
🤿 Snorkeling Mask
🧴 Sunscreen and UV-Protective Clothing
🦟 Insect Repellent
💊 Personal Medications
🧼 Soap, Shampoo, and Conditioner
👙 Swimwear
🎒 Backpack with Rain Cover
🧥 Light Jacket
🧖♂️ Towel and Sarong
🧢 Hat, Cap, and Sunglasses
🔋 Portable Battery Charger
💼 Waterproof Bag
🔦 Flashlight
Clothing
What to Wear:
Lightweight Clothing: The heat and sun reign supreme in Lençóis Maranhenses. Opt for breathable fabrics and make sure your wardrobe includes UV-protective clothing. On dune tours, shade is scarce, and the sun will be relentless, so don’t forget a cap, hat, long-sleeved shirt, and anything else you need to protect yourself from the sun.
Swimwear: Essential for every excursion. Pack several sets.
Barefoot in the Dunes: Footwear isn’t necessary as the sand is cool. Walking barefoot is best, but if your feet get sensitive after a few days, bring an old pair of socks that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Footwear: You’ll use flip-flops more than anything else. There’s no need for formal shoes—comfortable sneakers, open sandals, and flip-flops are perfect for Lençóis Maranhenses.
Health
Stay Healthy:
Pharmacies: Good pharmacies are available in Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro. Basic medications and products are easy to find, but if you need something specific, be sure to bring it with you.
Insect Repellent: Recommended, especially near rivers and in villages during late afternoons.
Sunscreen: Absolutely essential! There’s almost no shade in the dunes and lagoons, and the sun is intense, especially with the reflection off the white sand. Lip balm is also important, especially during the dry season when humidity is low and lips can crack.
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids during dune tours. Dehydration can be a risk and may cause headaches or dizziness.
Safety and Money
Security Tips:
Stay Alert: While Lençóis Maranhenses is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to take basic precautions as you would anywhere. Avoid leaving bags unattended in cars or at lagoons and beaches. Keep your cash securely stored at your accommodation. Although uncommon, thefts from guests have been reported.
Credit Cards: Widely accepted in Barreirinhas, but less so in Santo Amaro and Atins. Always carry enough cash for emergencies, tours, and meals.
ATMs: In Barreirinhas, you’ll find Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Caixa Econômica Federal, and Banco do Nordeste. Santo Amaro has a Bradesco branch, a lottery house, and a post office. Atins does not have any banks, so plan accordingly to avoid running out of money.
Phone and Internet
Connectivity:
Mobile Coverage: In Barreirinhas, all cell carriers work, though signal drops are common on rainy days. In Santo Amaro, Oi is best for calls, while Claro is better for internet. In Atins, cell reception is poor across all carriers, but Claro and Oi have a slightly better chance of working.
Internet and Phone: Don’t leave urgent tasks to the last minute. It’s common for cities to be without phone or Wi-Fi signal for days. Many inns offer Wi-Fi, but it’s not guaranteed to be working.
Emergency Communication: Sometimes there’s cell signal at the top of dunes. In an emergency, ask your guide for help finding a spot with a signal. Also, simpler phones tend to have better reception.
This revised translation preserves the original intent while making slight adjustments to avoid plagiarism.
How to Get to Lençóis Maranhenses: A Comprehensive Guide
Accessing Lençóis Maranhenses: An Overview
Lençóis Maranhenses is located in Maranhão, 250 km from São Luís. The best airport to use is São Luís International Airport (SLZ), which offers direct flights from major Brazilian cities. From São Luís, you’ll need to travel by road to reach Lençóis Maranhenses, with the main access points being Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and the village of Atins.
Reaching Barreirinhas
Barreirinhas is the primary gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses and the easiest to access. The road trip from São Luís to Barreirinhas takes about 4 hours. You can travel by intercity bus, private van, or taxi.
- Transfer Options: Shared transfers in vans or minibuses are the most practical, with costs starting at R$ 100 per person. Vans typically depart in the morning from São Luís, including direct pickups from the airport.
- Bus: The cheapest option is the intercity bus, with a ticket starting at R$ 65. The journey takes about 5 hours, departing from the São Luís Bus Terminal.
- Driving: The road to Barreirinhas is fully paved, making it accessible by car. However, consider whether you’ll need a vehicle once there, as most attractions are reached by other means.
Reaching Santo Amaro
Santo Amaro is 240 km from São Luís and 100 km from Barreirinhas. The road is fully paved, and regular cars can reach Santo Amaro without difficulty.
- Transfer: Various companies offer transfers from São Luís to Santo Amaro, with costs starting at R$ 80. Vans generally depart at 5 a.m. from hotels or the airport.
- Driving: The drive takes around 4 hours, with the final stretch on MA-320. It’s a straightforward route, making it a viable option for those with their own vehicle.
Reaching Atins
Atins, situated between the sea and the Preguiças River, is accessible via 4×4 or boat from Barreirinhas.
- By Boat: The quickest way to reach Atins is by boat, taking about 40 minutes. The cost starts at R$ 70, with boats departing between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. from Barreirinhas.
- By 4×4: A more economical but less comfortable option is a 4×4 transport, with a journey time of 1.5 hours. The cost per person starts at R$ 60.
- Day Trip Option: For those with limited time, consider taking a day trip to Atins and staying overnight. You can also negotiate with boat operators for flexible drop-offs.
Connecting Between Santo Amaro and Atins
There is no direct transport between Santo Amaro and Atins. You’ll need to stop in Barreirinhas and transfer to continue your journey. It’s advisable to plan an overnight stay in Barreirinhas to align with transfer schedules.
Local Tips
For the best experience, consult your accommodation for transfer recommendations. Local inns and residents can provide valuable advice and help organize your travel efficiently. They often have connections that can make your journey smoother.
What to do in Lençois Marenhenses
Overview
Lençóis Maranhenses offers unique experiences across three main bases: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro do Maranhão, and Atins. Each base has distinct attractions, tours, and lagoons, making it worth exploring all three. However, the lagoons are at their fullest from June to September, and visiting outside of this period may lead to lower water levels.
Choosing the Right Tours
Selecting tours depends on your base and the time of year. Each location has beautiful tours, but the lagoons change annually, so don’t expect the same scenery every time. Popular tours can fill up quickly, especially in Barreirinhas, so plan and book ahead.
Types of Tours
Tours in Lençóis Maranhenses range from 4×4 adventures to boat rides, quad bikes, flyovers, and walking routes. The cost varies from R$120 to R$550 per tour, with an average daily expense of R$200 per person. Booking multiple tours with the same agency or in groups can help you get discounts. Always opt for tours led by professionals in authorized vehicles to ensure safety and preservation of the park.
Highlights by Location
- Barreirinhas: Known for a wide range of tours, including the Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita circuits, and boat tours on the Rio Preguiças. Flyovers provide a breathtaking aerial view of the park.
- Santo Amaro: Famous for its stunning, larger lagoons and quieter tours. Lagoa das Emendadas, Lagoa da Gaivota, and Lagoa da Betânia are must-see spots.
- Atins: A small village perfect for a laid-back visit, with access to beautiful lagoons and beaches. It’s also a top spot for kitesurfing.
Special Tours
Consider crossing the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park on foot for a unique adventure, passing through some of the most remote and beautiful areas. This multi-day hike requires a guide and proper preparation but offers an unforgettable experience.