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Trekking
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Barreirinhas
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Santo Amaro
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Hammocks
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Portuguese, English
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10
- Hassle-Free Booking
- Handpicked Local Partners
- Sustainable Travel
- Book with Flexibility
About the adventure
The 5-day Lençóis Maranhenses hike will blow your mind! Imagine a trip that combines the breathtaking beauty of Brazil with the rich culture of Maranhão. That’s exactly what you’ll find on this trek through the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
Along the way, you’ll discover unparalleled landscapes, such as the Baixa Grande and Queimada dos Britos oases, filled with endless white dunes and sparkling lagoons that will awaken your adventurous spirit. Experience incredible sunsets, refreshing swims and enjoy the local cuisine.
During this hike, you’ll meet local families, hear their stories, and learn about the sustainable tourism efforts that help protect this true natural treasure. To make it even more genuine, you’ll sleep in hammocks under a breathtaking starry sky and take quick boat trips to connect with nature.
Short on time? No worries! You can still explore the magic of Lençóis Maranhenses with our 2-day trek, 3-day trek or 4-day hike. No matter which one you choose, it will be just as wonderful.
Highlights of the adventure
- Visit two oases, the Baixa Grande Oasis and the Queimada dos Britos Oasis, in the National Park.
- Combine natural and cultural beauty in 5 days of hiking in Lençóis Maranhenses.
- Visit the welcoming communities of Vassouras and Mandacaru and immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Discover the crystal clear waters of Atins Beach and its stunning dunes.
- Take a boat ride down the Rio Alegre to Santo Amaro.
- Stay with local families to learn about traditions.
Day by day
Departure at 8:30 am from Barreirinhas
Ready to start the Lençóis Maranhenses Hike? It begins in Barreirinhas, about 4 hours from São Luís (approximately 237 km), where our vehicle will pick you up at 8:30 am. From there, we’ll set off on an exciting boat tour.
Along the way, we’ll explore the Environmental Preservation Area (APA) of Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses and stop at the charming villages of Vassouras and Mandacaru, a great opportunity to experience the vibrant community-based tourism that keeps these places so unique and full of life.
The adventure continues with a visit to the charming beach village of Atins, where we’ll have lunch and stay until 3 pm, enjoying the scenery and the local atmosphere. After this relaxing break, we resume our hike towards the village of Canto dos Atins, located within the National Park. This stage is 8 km long, about 2 to 3 hours, and leads us through a fascinating field of dunes.
Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to swim in the lagoons and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us. The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be watching the sunset in the late afternoon. To end our first day, we will spend the night in Canto do Atins, a lodge that offers visitors a good structure and the experience of sleeping in hammocks. It is a meeting point for trekking groups from all over the world.
- Total distance by boat: 32 km
- Travel time by boat: approximately 2 hours
- Total hiking distance: 8 km
- Hiking duration: approximately 2 to 3 hours
Our second day begins in the early hours of the morning. At 1:30 am, we’ll have a light meal to fuel up before setting off. By 2:00 am, we’ll be on our way to the Baixa Grande Oasis. The goal is to reach the beach just in time to witness the sunrise — a truly magical experience that makes the early start more than worth it. Today’s Lençóis Maranhenses hike covers 28 km and will take around 9 to 10 hours, crossing endless dunes and remote landscapes.
We’re expected to arrive at the oasis around noon. This is one of the most remote inhabited areas in the park, home to just six families who live in harmony with the surrounding dunes and the restinga ecosystem. To truly experience the Lençóis Maranhenses crossing, we’ll spend the night with one of these families — a rare opportunity to connect with the local way of life.
After lunch and some rest, we’ll return to the dunes in the late afternoon for another swim in the lagoons and a chance to watch the sunset. Back at the house, we’ll gather for dinner and an informal chat to learn more about the community’s stories and traditions. And if you’re curious, don’t miss the chance to taste Tiquira, a strong cassava-based brandy that’s typical of the region.
- Total hiking distance: 28 km
- Hiking duration: about 9 to 10 hours
Ready for another day of adventure in the Lençóis Maranhenses? The day starts at 4:30 am with breakfast, essential to fuel us for the journey ahead. By 5:00 am, we’ll begin our 12 km hike, which will take around 4 to 5 hours to complete.
We’ll cross the dunes just as the first light of day appears. The trail leads us through the vast white sandscape and across the Rio Negro, a narrow stream winding through the desert. As we continue, we’ll be rewarded with a stunning sunrise and the chance to swim in some of the park’s most beautiful crystal-clear lagoons. Around 10:30 a.m., we’re expected to reach the Oasis — a small, lush patch of green in the middle of the sand — where a homemade lunch awaits.
After a well-deserved rest in the shade, we’ll return to the dunes in the late afternoon. There’ll be more opportunities to swim in the lagoons and to take in the quiet beauty of the landscape as the sun sets. In the evening, we’ll be welcomed into the home of a native family for dinner and an overnight stay — a simple, authentic experience that offers a glimpse into the local way of life.
- Total hiking distance:12 km
- Hiking duration: about 4 to 5 hours
On the fourth day of this trip to cross the Lençóis Maranhenses, we’ll start early with a call to leave at 3 a.m. for a 5 to 7-hour hike to the village of Betânia (18 km). Along the way, we’ll stop to watch the sunrise and take a refreshing dip in the lagoon.
Our adventure takes us to lunch in the village of Betânia, a real treasure in this incredible landscape. The village is special, not only because of its beauty, but also because it is next to the Rio Alegre and surrounded by endless lagoons. This day hike is designed to give you the full experience of this place, from sunrise to the Rio Alegre.
- Total hiking distance: 18 km
- Hiking duration: about 5 to 7 hours
Get ready for the last day of the Lençóis Maranhenses hike! We’ll start early, at 5:30 a.m., with a 15-minute boat ride down the Alegre River. Then, in this part of our adventure, we’ll hike 12 km to Santo Amaro, stopping along the way to swim, rest, and watch our last sunrise.
Around 10 am, we will arrive in Santo Amaro and end our walk through the Lençóis Maranhenses. This is the moment to look back and see all the incredible things we’ve done and places we’ve seen!
Whether it’s your first adventure in the Lençóis Maranhenses or not, this day promises to be unforgettable. Don’t miss these last hours of fun and reflection!
- Total distance by walking: 12 km
- Travel time by walking: approximately 5 hoursㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
Arrival in Santo Amaro at 10 a.m
What is included?
- Overnight stay in hammocks at a local’s house.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Transfer from Barreirinhas to the starting point of the trek
- Transfer from the end of the trek to Santo Amaro
- Experienced local eco-guide accredited by ICMBio
- Personal accident insurance (Porto Seguro)
What is not included?
- Drinks
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day
- Accommodation in Barreirinhas
- Any items not mentioned in the included items
Accomodation
Visiting Lençóis Maranhenses is being aware that you’ll live an immersion in nature unlike any other. Besides trekking across the white sand dunes and diving into freshwater lagoons, the accommodation is also an essential part of the adventure.
Travelers stay in local’s houses, who graciously open their doors for hikers from all over the world. Under the starry sky and Lençóis’ lovely warm weather, you’ll sleep in hammocks on a shared space with your group mates.
The accommodation is modest, but cozy and clean, containing everything you need for a good night’s rest, including blankets, bathrooms, hot showers, electricity and food.
Although the stay is fairly short, you’ll still be able to have a wonderful experience surrounded by nature and learn about the lifestyle of your hosts. If you love getting to know new people and learning about different cultures, this is the perfect option for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
The nearest airport to Lençóis Maranhenses is located in São Luis.
You have multiple options to reach Barreirinhas. You can book a private transfer when finalizing your booking on our platform. Alternatively, more budget-friendly options like shared vans and buses are available, which you can book directly. For more details, please refer to our blog post on how to get to Lençóis Maranhenses.
We offer the convenience of booking a private transfer via our platform. Additionally, there are shared vans that depart at 4:00 am and 1:00 p.m. every day, which you can book directly. More information is available on our blog
If you’re traveling with additional luggage that you won’t need during the hike, our partner has you covered. They provide a luggage transfer service from Barreirinhas to Santo Amaro at a cost of R$50 per piece. If you plan to return to Barreirinhas after the trek, our partner also offers luggage storage for R$30 per item. Please note that payments for these services must be made directly in cash on-site.
As a solo traveler, you have multiple ways to book your adventure. You can opt for a “Guaranteed” departure date listed on our website. If those dates don’t align with your schedule, you have the option to start a new group by picking a date of your choice. We recommend doing this as early as possible to enhance the likelihood of your chosen departure being confirmed. When booking, select the “Pay Deposit” method, where you’ll be required to pay a 20% deposit based on a single rate. This will secure your departure, and the remaining balance will be determined by the final group size, invoiced 7 days before your trip starts. Should you decide to cancel due to changes in the group size affecting the cost, a 5% fee will be deducted to cover credit card processing expenses.
Yes, you can book a private group. To do so, please fill out the inquiry form on our platform, and we’ll get back to you with the details.
While most of our guides are not fluent in English, we do our best to accommodate English-speaking guides for international groups. If a bilingual guide is essential for you, we offer the option to book a translator at a cost of R$550 per day.
Mineral water, soft drinks and beer are not included in the package. You can buy them and pay directly to the families where you will be staying. We recommend that you bring cash, preferably small change.
Our support points offer simple, home-cooked meals that typically include rice, beans, pasta, and a variety of animal proteins like free-range chicken, goat, pork, fish, duck, etc. The availability of these items may vary based on local conditions.
Absolutely! We can cater to various dietary restrictions such as vegetarian diets and food allergies. Please inform us of your needs at the time of booking so we can make the necessary arrangements.
During a trek in Lençóis Maranhenses, the accommodations in the oases are rustic and integrated with nature, aiming to offer an authentic experience. Visitors stay in the homes of local families who reside in the oases. The accommodations are simple and include shared bathrooms. Guests sleep in hammocks, which are placed under covered structures and come with blankets for added comfort. Some of the homes also have beds available that can be arranged on-site and paid for directly to the host.
Most of the journey is on foot, as it’s a hiking tour. However, we do include all necessary transfers from your accommodation in Barreirinhas to the starting point and one at the end to Santo Amaro. Please note that transfers from Santo Amaro to São Luis or back to Barreirinhas are not included in the package.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike, please consider packing the following items:
- UV-Protective Clothing: For sun protection.
- Hat: To shield your face from the sun.
- Sunglasses: For eye protection.
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
- Rain Gear: A lightweight rain cover for unexpected showers.
- Backpack: A 30L, 40L, or 60L backpack to carry your essentials.
- Trekking Pole: For added stability on uneven terrain.
- Hydration: A 1.5L water bottle or a large hydration pack.
- Swimsuit: For enjoying the lagoons.
- Headlamp: For better visibility in low-light conditions.
- Snacks: Pack cereal bars, nuts, and fruits for quick energy.
- Footwear: Consider sandals like Papetes or Hawaiian flip-flops.
- Socks: For added comfort during the trek.
- Beach Towel: Compact and quick-drying is best.
- Personal Care Items: Basic hygiene products.
- Medications: Any personal prescriptions or over-the-counter meds you may need.
Packing Tips:
- Avoid heavy items like laptops, excessive clothing, and bulky toiletries. Less is more!
- Aim for a backpack weight around 4kg for optimal comfort.
The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses in Brazil largely depends on what you’re looking to experience. Here are some general guidelines:
Lagoon Season: June-September
Best for full lagoons but expect crowds.
Less Crowded: October-November
Fewer tourists; some lagoons may be dry.
Budget-Friendly: December-February
Lower prices, fewer lagoons, and more rain.
Read more in our blog, when is the best time to visit Lençois Maranhenses
We aim to provide a personalized experience by assigning one guide for every 8 people. If your group exceeds this number, we will add a second guide at no additional cost.
Yes, the day usually starts early to avoid the strong sun. Most days offer free time from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, allowing you to explore the surroundings of your accommodation, read a book or take a nap at one of the hammocks.
The trek can be physically demanding, involving moderate to long distances over challenging terrains like sand dunes and freshwater lagoons.
In case of an injury, we will provide the necessary support for your safe evacuation, which may include transport via quad bike, 4×4, or other means as required.
At PlanetaEXO, we hold environmental sustainability in high regard, which is why we’ve chosen a partner who aligns with our values. Our partner in Lençóis Maranhenses shares our dedication to responsible and community-based tourism.
Their team consists of highly experienced guides and drivers, ensuring a service that is both responsible and welcoming. As a family-owned business native to Barreirinhas, they have a genuine passion for showcasing the unique beauty and diversity of the Lençóis Maranhenses region. They work closely with local organizations to promote tourism that not only benefits the community but also respects and values local cultures.
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Excellent experience
By Tatiana Theotofrom BrazilJanuary 27, 2025Excellent experience - an adventure through the lençóis! Marcelo and Patrício were great guides, very professional, prepared, and they are the third generation to receive tourists in Barreirinhas. I loved everything - the photos, the Excellent experience - an adventure through the lençóis! Marcelo and Patrício were great guides, very professional, prepared, and they are the third generation to receive tourists in Barreirinhas. I loved everything - the photos, the sweets, the hat and backpack, the good humor, the peace, the advice, and the affection they put into the crossing. Even after 40km of walking, I left wanting more!!! …read more read lessDate of Experience: January 27, 2025 -
Simply sensational!
By Lin Bittencourtfrom BrazilJanuary 17, 2025Simply sensational! A very worthwhile experience, incredible landscapes, perfect organization, as well as a wonderful guide in every respect!Date of Experience: January 15, 2025 -
Australian - 5 day Lençois Maranhenses
By Douglas Costellofrom AustraliaJuly 25, 2024
I recently completed Planeta Exo's 5-day hike across Lençóis Maranhenses, and it was an incredible experience! The stunning landscapes, from endless sand dunes to pristine lagoons, were breathtaking. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, providing I recently completed Planeta Exo's 5-day hike across Lençóis Maranhenses, and it was an incredible experience! The stunning landscapes, from endless sand dunes to pristine lagoons, were breathtaking. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights into the unique ecosystem and local culture. One highlight was the small group size, which made the experience feel personalised and intimate. The accommodations along the route were rustic but comfortable, adding to the adventure without sacrificing too much comfort. The meals provided were delicious and offered a taste of regional cuisine. However, getting from São Luís to Barreirinhas was a bit challenging. While Planeta Exo's blog post explains the process, booking ahead requires a CPF number, making it difficult for foreigners to arrange transportation in advance. Additionally, the guides and the majority of the group did not speak English, which sometimes led to missing critical information. For instance, I didn't get the memo to purchase water the night before the second day (which is the longest portion of the hike) and almost missed out. Fortunately, an English teacher had signed for our group hike, and kindly translated when necessary. If you're not fluent in Portuguese, I recommend brushing up on some key phrases or bringing a translation app to avoid any misunderstandings. Despite these minor issues, the hike itself was an unforgettable journey through one of Brazil's most unique landscapes. Highly recommended for nature lovers and adventure seekers! …read more read lessDate of Experience: July 20, 2024
Cancelation Policy
- If you cancel within 7 days of booking the tour or extra services, you’ll receive a full refund, minus any credit card processing fees. However, if the tour is scheduled for the days immediately following your booking, no refund will be provided.
- For cancellations made up to 5 days before the start of the tour or extra services, you’ll receive a partial refund. A fee of 20% of the total tour cost will be deducted to cover operational and logistical expenses, as well as any cancellation fees with our partners.
- Cancellations made after the specified time frames will not be eligible for any refund.
