Explore smart ways to get the best out of your Lençóis Maranhenses adventure!
Located in northeast Brazil, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a surreal destination that is sought after by adventurers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wonder is famous for its vast, giant white dunes that fill up during the rainy season, forming crystal-clear freshwater lagoons.
But don’t let its remote beauty fool you, exploring Lençóis Maranhenses requires thoughtful planning to make the most of your time, energy, and budget. That’s why PlanetaEXO, a platform specialized in ecotourism in Brazil, has put together 10 essential travel tips for Lençóis Maranhenses visitors should know to enjoy this natural wonder to the fullest.
1. Pick your base like a pro: Barreirinhas, Atins, or Santo Amaro?
The choice of base town can shape your entire experience, so analyzing the options and choosing the one that makes the most sense for your travel style is the first tip to get the most out of Lençóis Maranhenses.
Barreirinhas is the most popular hub with solid infrastructure and easy access. Atins is the most remote fishing village, harder to reach, but it offers a rustic charm and wind for kitesurfers. Santo Amaro has the closest access to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and is perfect for those wanting to explore more easily.
Photo: Gabriel Boieras
It’s important to note that each town offers different vibes, logistics, and access to attractions, and it’s common for tourists to combine more than one base throughout their trip.
👉 Read more details about each of the base cities of Lençóis Maranhenses
2. Time it right: When the lagoons are at their best
The weather is ideal for those looking to explore ecotourism in Brazil. The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is between May and September, the beginning of the dry season, when the lagoons are full from seasonal rains and the sky is usually clear with no rain.
This window offers the most spectacular views, the best swimming, and the best overall hiking conditions. Avoid January to April if possible, when heavy rains can disrupt your plans and the lagoons haven’t formed yet. And this helps ensure a more peaceful visit, with the best walks, safest hikes, and magical moments.
3. Don’t rush it: Why you need at least 3 days here
Another important piece of advice for travel tips for Lençóis Maranhenses is to plan the ideal length of stay. Three full days allow you to go beyond the surface: visit multiple lagoons, do a sunrise or sunset hike, try a boat tour, and still have time to relax.
With more days, you can take it slower and avoid the stress of rushing from place to place. Include experiences such as long hikes and trails, 4×4 tours, sports activities, cultural stops, and even flights over Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, and, of course, time to relax.
4. Trust the locals: Go with a guide who knows the dunes
Lençóis Maranhenses is a protected area with no marked trails. The dunes stretch endlessly, and it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. Guides know the safest and most scenic routes, how to avoid getting lost, and can tailor your experience to your interests.
At PlanetaEXO, we work with experienced local guides who know every corner of the park and are deeply familiar with Maranhão’s rich culture. They’ll take you to the best lagoons, explain the ecosystem, and provide insights you wouldn’t get on your own.
👉 Explore Lençóis Maranhenses safely with PlanetaEXO’s local experts
5 – It’s not an easy walk: make sure you’re prepared
Expect a physical workout. The sand is uneven, the dunes are tall, so the ground slips out from under you as you go. Under the sun, it could get old fast. To keep travel from being a massive ball of stress, dress in light, airy clothes, drink plenty of water, and take your time.
While most people enjoy walking barefoot, hiking sandals also work well. The effort’s well worth it for the breathtaking vistas and refreshing swims in untouched lagoons.
Photo: Caio Acquesta
6. Bring cash: ATMs are rare, and cards don’t always work
One of the often-overlooked travel tips for Lençóis Maranhenses visitors should know is to carry cash. Connectivity is limited in most of the region, and some restaurants, shops, and local vendors do not accept cards. ATMs are scarce, especially in Atins and Santo Amaro, so it is best to bring enough cash in reais.
This small preparation can save you a lot of headaches. Having cash ensures you can enjoy your meals, transportation, and souvenirs without stress.
7. Pack Smart: The Essentials You Really Need
Packing light and only the essentials will help you get the most out of Lençóis Maranhenses. You’ll be walking a lot, so pack light and be functional. Here are the must-haves for your daypack:
- Reusable water bottle (at least 1.5L)
- Eco-friendly sunscreen (non-toxic to aquatic life)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Swimwear for the lagoons
- Sandals or light hiking shoes
- Light snacks (nuts, fruit bars)
A compact backpack is best. Don’t carry more than you need, you’ll feel every extra gram on the dunes.
👉 Check out our complete travel guide to find out what to pack
8. Don’t underestimate transfer times
Getting in and out takes time. From São Luís to Barreirinhas is around 4 hours by car. Getting to Atins involves road and boat. Plan, especially if you’re changing bases, and avoid tight connections. Transfers can take longer than expected due to road conditions or weather, so it’s best to build in buffer time between activities.
Photo: Cokada
9. Go for a multi-day trek
If you’re up for a real adventure, consider trekking across the dunes from one village to another. It’s a more intense experience than the day tours, but far more rewarding. You’ll hike through remote parts of Lençóis Maranhenses that most visitors never see, sleep in local homes or campsites, and enjoy simple, home-cooked meals.
It’s physically demanding, but there’s also time to rest. In the afternoons, after the hikes, you’ll often have a few quiet hours to relax, recharge, and soak in the landscapes. It’s the perfect moment to disconnect and maybe even dive into that book you’ve been meaning to read.
10. Download Google Translate for offline use
Don’t expect English everywhere, most locals speak only Portuguese. Downloading Google Translate before arriving and setting up the Portuguese language pack for offline use is a smart move. It’ll help with everything from ordering food to asking for directions, and it shows respect for the local culture.
Take the opportunity to learn a few basic words in Portuguese, like “bom dia” (good morning) and “obrigado” (thank you). Small gestures like these go a long way in showing kindness, openness, and appreciation for the people and the place you’re visiting.
.
For a complete experience, travel with PlanetaEXO
Now that you know 10 essential travel tips for Lençóis Maranhenses visitors should follow, it’s time to go beyond the guide. With PlanetaEXO, you’re not just booking a trip, you’re joining a movement for immersive, sustainable, and responsible travel. Every detail is crafted to support ecotourism in Brazil and preserve the beauty of the places we explore.
We partner with local communities to offer authentic experiences rooted in respect for nature. Let us help you plan an unforgettable journey to Lençóis Maranhenses, as meaningful as it is stunning.
