Tra-vel

Destination

Lençóis Maranhenses

Country: Brazil Updated:

Lençóis Maranhenses is a national park in northeastern Brazil, known for enormous white sand dunes and thousands of seasonal freshwater lagoons.

White dunes and blue lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses
Image: AI illustration · Rights: no public licence for reuse has been specified.

When to go

The lagoons fill after the rainy season and are especially impressive while holding plenty of water. During the dry season, many lagoons gradually disappear.

Things to see and do

Explore dunes and lagoons with a licensed guide, visit the Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita routes, travel on the Rio Preguiças and experience sunsets over the dunes.

Practical tips

Do not go deep into the dunes without a local guide. Bring water, a hat and sun protection.

Getting there and getting around

The main tourist base is Barreirinhas. The region is usually reached via São Luís, followed by an overland journey.

Where to stay

Barreirinhas offers the widest choice of pousadas and hotels, while Santo Amaro and Atins provide quieter access to the natural areas.

What to try

Try fresh fish, seafood, arroz de cuxá and cuisine from Maranhão state.

Official sources

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