If you’re looking for an extraordinary adventure, go to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil. A parallel place, far from the chaos of the big city, in a vast area of undulating swept dunes and crystal-clear pools. It’s a location that is so attractive that even Marvel Studios has chosen it as the backdrop for some of their most epic scenes!
Natural beauty awaits you in the Lençóis Maranhenses. This travel guide will give you tips on how to make the most of your trip to this paradise. From thrilling buggy rides across the dunes to refreshing dips in stunning blue natural pools.
Get ready to be amazed by the Lençóis Maranhenses, where your next epic journey awaits.
Let’s get to it
1. Where is Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
2. How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
3. When is the best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses?
4. How long to spend in Lençóis Maranhenses?
5. Where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses?
6. Can you swim in Lençóis Maranhenses?
7. Best tours in Lençóis Maranhenses
8. Is it worth going to Lençóis Maranhenses?
About Lençóis Maranhenses
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, spanning 1550 square kilometres (600 square miles), is a unique natural spectacle on the coast of Maranhão, making it a top tourist destination. Influenced by three major Brazilian biomes—the Cerrado, Caatinga, and Amazon—the park hosts diverse ecosystems, including vegetation, mangroves, and vast dunes covering two-thirds of its area. These dunes, the park’s highlight, create breathtaking lagoons during the rainy season.
Supported by the municipalities of Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and Primeira Cruz, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park provides the necessary infrastructure for visitors from all over the world to enjoy its high dunes, crystal clear lagoons, and rich biodiversity. Beyond its natural beauty, the park invites visitors to deeply connect with nature and experience extraordinary adventures in one of Brazil’s most captivating settings, promising not only visual delight but a deep engagement with the natural world.
@dronelencoismaranhenses
Where is Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is located on the northeastern coast of Brazil, in the state of Maranhao. This unique location stretches along the coastline, flanked by 70 kilometres (43 miles) of untouched beaches bordering the Atlantic Ocean. The park is shaped by important natural features like such as the Parnaíba River to the west, the São José Basin to the north, and the Itapecuru, Munim, and Periá rivers.
How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses?
To reach the breathtaking expanse of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, adventurers can set off from three main access points:
Barreirinhas: An entry town with good facilities, reachable via the MA-402, offers accommodation, restaurants, and tour agencies. Excursions include boat trips and exciting activities on the Formiga River. Access to the park is by ferry and 4×4 vehicle.
Santo Amaro do Maranhão: Closer to the heart of Lençóis Maranhenses, accessible via MA-402. Immediate access to the park, less than 2 km from the dunes. Charming inns and local cuisine. Park access by foot or 4×4 vehicle.
Atins: Small village in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, known for pristine beaches. Can be reached from Barreirinhas by a 2-hour boat ride with stunning views or a 1-hour 4×4 vehicle ride, offering an exciting way to explore the park before reaching Atins.
Please, click here for more information and details about each transportation service.
Atins – MA
When is the Best Time to Visit Lençóis Maranhenses?
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, at its most beautiful from May to September, features famous lagoons surrounded by pure white sands. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing an ideal experience for visitors during this time. In the high water months (May to August), the landscape transforms into a lively, unique scene with the dunes turning into water-filled beauty.
During the medium water periods (September to October / February to April), as the dry season begins, the lagoons shrink, but still offer opportunities for water activities amidst changing landscapes. In the low water months (November to January), the temporary lagoons become grassy fields, limiting water activities to persistent lagoons. Whether enjoying the vibrant beauty of the rainy season or the calm landscapes of the dry season, the park ensures a dynamic environment for an unforgettable adventure.
You can also stay informed about the climate by clicking here.
@marciocabralhotography
How long to spend in Lençóis Maranhenses?
The best way to enjoy the Lençóis Maranhenses is over three or four days. This gives a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the diverse landscapes and take part in exciting activities. PlanetaEXO offers well-planned packages, ranging from two-day tours to five-day trails, ensuring a smooth and memorable visit with guided tours, accommodation and transport.
An extended stay not only gives photography enthusiasts time to capture the dynamic beauty of the park. It also permits a deeper connection with Lençóis Maranhenses. Whether exploring the iconic dunes, taking part in cultural events or enjoying the local cuisine.
Where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses?
When planning your stay in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, choosing the right accommodation is crucial to ensure an unforgettable experience. Barreirinhas is the most popular gateway to the park, offering a range of accommodations from charming guesthouses to luxury hotels. The city is perfect for those looking for convenience, with easy access to tours, restaurants and other conveniences. For those who prefer closer contact with nature in a serene environment, Atins emerges as a charming option. This fishing village combines the simplicity of its rustic lodgings with the beauty of its beaches, attracting travellers in search of peace and authenticity.
Santo Amaro do Maranhão, on the other hand, offers a refuge for those who want to escape the busier routes and immerse themselves in a more exclusive and tranquil experience. Accommodation here is welcoming and harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape.
@lafermedegeorges
Can you swim in Lençóis Maranhenses?
Yes!! Of course, you can swim in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, and it is one of the most enchanting activities the park offers!
After the rains, usually between February and August, numerous freshwater lagoons form among the white sand dunes. These lagoons, with their crystal clear waters and pleasant temperatures, are perfect for swimming and refreshing under the sun. However, it is important to follow the local guides’ advice and respect the park’s rules to ensure a safe and responsible experience. Swimming in the lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a unique experience that combines the adventure of exploring one of Brazil’s most beautiful ecosystems with the pleasure of a revitalising dip in the park.
Best tours in Lençóis Maranhenses
At PlanetaEXO, our mission is to ensure that you experience Lençóis Maranhenses National Park uniquely and memorably. With careful curation, we’ve selected the best tours that promise not only incredible adventures but also a deep connection with local culture and nature. Among the experiences we highlight is the horseback riding tour, perfect for those seeking a short yet authentic journey. This tour takes you through the communities of Vassouras and Mandacaru, where the hospitality of the residents and vibrant culture intertwine with the spectacular landscape.
For adventurers with more time, our 5-day hike offers a complete immersion in the park’s wonders. Crossing dunes and lagoons, you’ll have the chance to hear local life stories, adding a layer of meaning to your trip. And for those who want to discover less-visited corners of the park in a shorter time frame, our 2-day trip is the ideal choice. Experience stunning landscapes and hidden lagoons, providing moments for reflection and admiration of nature. For more options, check out our 3-day trek and 4-day trekking expeditions.
At PlanetaEXO, we also offer unconventional packages, designed for those seeking out-of-the-ordinary experiences. Our selection ranges from cultural immersion activities to ecological adventures, all designed to offer the best of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park with the utmost respect for the environment and local communities.
To learn more about these and other packages, read about the best tours and discover how we can make your trip to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park unforgettable!
Photo: Paraíso do Caju
Is it worth going to Lençóis Maranhenses?
A visit to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is an experience not to be missed, thanks to its unique natural landscapes that combine white dunes with crystal clear lagoons. As well as the opportunity for adventure and exploration in an almost surreal setting, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture by interacting with traditional communities. It’s also a destination that appeals to photography enthusiasts and those seeking moments of relaxation and connection with nature.
With a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park offers a journey that is both memorable and respectful of the environment, ensuring a rich and valuable experience for all visitors.
Join us at PlanetaEXO and discover the magic of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. The beauty of nature is here to inspire you and create unforgettable memories.
Sand dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses
At PlanetaEXO, we believe in sustainable travel and creating moments that stay in your heart. Connect with a local guide and embrace one of the most extraordinary experiences of your life in the breathtaking landscapes of Brazil’s Lençóis Maranhenses National Park!
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