In short
- Park admission is 0 BRL.
- Mandatory 4x4 tours cost 160-220 BRL per person.
- Barreirinhas charges a tourism tax of 5.50 BRL per night.
In this article
Visiting Lençóis Maranhenses requires a budget for transport rather than tickets. ICMBio charges no entry fee at the gate. However, standard vehicles are not allowed inside the dune zones. You must book authorized 4x4 guides to see the lagoons.
Is there an entry fee for Lençóis Maranhenses?
No, the national park does not charge an official entrance fee.
Admission to the 155,000-hectare protected area is completely free (0 BRL). You do not need to buy a park ticket to enter. Getting into the park requires hiring authorized transport instead.
How much does a mandatory 4x4 tour cost?
A standard half-day group tour to the main lagoons costs between 160 and 220 BRL per person.
You cannot drive a rental car into the dunes. All excursions use licensed 4x4 vehicles departing from Barreirinhas. These group tours take 45 to 60 minutes each way. Tour prices change depending on the operator and season.
Are there local taxes in Barreirinhas?
Yes, Barreirinhas charges a small local tourism tax.
Visitors staying in the town of Barreirinhas pay approximately 5.50 BRL per night. Hotels and guesthouses typically add this fee to your final accommodation bill.
What do other tours and transport cost?
Speedboat tours cost 150-200 BRL, while transport from São Luís is around 100 BRL.
If you explore the Preguiças River, full-day speedboat tours stop at Vassouras and Mandacaru. To reach Barreirinhas from São Luís (SLZ), an intercity bus or shared van costs about 100 BRL for the 4.5-hour trip.
How much is a private dune tour?
Private excursions cost significantly more than shared group tours.
If you want a dedicated 4x4 vehicle and guide, you must book a private tour. This option offers more flexibility but increases the price. Prices vary by platform and group size.
Do you need a permit to fly a drone?
Yes, flying a drone in the park requires a special-use permit.
You cannot freely fly drones over the dunes. You must apply for a permit from park authorities. This drone permit costs approximately 185 BRL.
Questions travellers ask
Can I enter the park without a guide?
No. Private and rental cars are strictly prohibited inside the dune zone. You must use licensed 4x4 vehicles and accredited guides to enter the park.
Does the park entry fee change in the high season?
The park itself has no entry fee year-round. Tour operators may adjust their 4x4 tour prices (160-220 BRL) depending on demand between June and September.
Are food and drinks included in the tour price?
Standard half-day lagoon tours do not include food or drinks. You should bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to handle the high heat.
