Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Maximize your time in the dunes. Check seasonal lagoon levels, arrange your transport from São Luís, and pack the right gear.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Barreirinhas, Maranhão, Brazil
GPS -2.7514, -42.8343
Open directionsGetting there
Most visitors arrive via São Luís (SLZ), 250 kilometers away.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Licensed 4x4 'jardineira' trucks departing from Barreirinhas across sandy trails to the dune fields. | 45-60 minutes each way | 160-220 BRL | Mandatory for entering the park's dune circuits. Standard vehicles are not allowed. |
| Bus: Intercity bus or shared tourist van from São Luís (SLZ) to Barreirinhas via BR-135 and MA-402. | 4 to 4.5 hours | approx 100 BRL | The most common and budget-friendly way to reach the base town of Barreirinhas. |
| Boat: Speedboat (voadeira) tours on the Preguiças River from Barreirinhas to Caburé and Atins. | Full day tour | 150-200 BRL | A scenic river route that stops at Vassouras (Pequenos Lençóis) and Mandacaru. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is from June to September. During these months, the seasonal rainwater lagoons are at their deepest, the rains have stopped, and the days are sunny.
What to bring
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Drone use is restricted.
Operating a drone requires a special-use permit from park authorities costing approximately 185 BRL.
How the day runs
Suggested ways to structure your time in Barreirinhas.
Experience both major lagoon circuits in one day from Barreirinhas.
- Lagoa Azul Circuit
Take a morning 4x4 tour for the best turquoise water colors.
- Lunch in Barreirinhas
Return to town to eat and rest during the hottest part of the day.
- Lagoa Bonita Circuit
Depart for the steep 30-meter dune climb.
- Sunset view
Watch the sun set over the massive dune field.
Explore the region beyond the main dune fields.
- Speedboat departure
Head down the Preguiças River from Barreirinhas.
- Vassouras
See the golden dunes and watch for wild capuchin monkeys.
- Mandacaru Lighthouse
Climb 160 steps for panoramic views of the river delta.
- Atins
Arrive in the rustic fishing village for lunch and relaxing.
Practical advice for the dunes
Always pack biodegradable sunscreen to protect the delicate lagoon ecosystems. The sun is intense, so wear a UV-protection rash guard and a hat with a chin strap to handle strong winds. Bring a reusable water bottle, as hydration is essential in the high heat.
Sandals or flip-flops are necessary for the trails, but walking barefoot is best once you reach the actual dunes. Keep a dry bag handy to protect your phone and camera from blowing sand.
Easiest way to do it
Lagoa Bonita Circuit in Lençóis Maranhenses
3 h to 4 h 5.0 (50)
- Transportation by 4x4 vehicle
- Certified and accredited driver
- Accredited guide
- Entrance to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
From$45per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How do you get to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park?
Take an intercity bus or shared tourist van from São Luís (SLZ) to Barreirinhas via BR-135 and MA-402. The journey takes 4 to 4.5 hours and costs roughly 100 BRL.
What is the best time of year to visit Lençóis Maranhenses?
Visit between June and September. This is when the seasonal rainwater lagoons are at their absolute deepest and the weather is mostly sunny.
Are the lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses saltwater or freshwater?
The lagoons are filled with freshwater. They are created when seasonal rainwater is trapped by impermeable rock beneath the sand.