In northeastern Brazil lies one of the most unique and breathtaking landscapes on the planet—Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Imagine a desert of pure white sand dunes that stretch endlessly across the horizon. Now, add hundreds of turquoise lagoons formed by seasonal rains, creating a surreal fusion of desert and oasis. Welcome to Lençóis Maranhenses, a natural wonder unlike any other.
Whether you’re a photographer, adventurer, or someone looking for peaceful solitude, this magical destination deserves a spot on your bucket list.
What Makes Lençóis Maranhenses So Special?
Despite its desert-like appearance, Lençóis Maranhenses receives a significant amount of rainfall—especially between January and June. This results in the formation of seasonal freshwater lagoons that settle between the dunes.
Unlike true deserts, the region has an underground water table, which helps retain the rainwater in these pools for several months.
Key facts:
- Area: Over 1,550 square kilometers
- Best time to visit: June to August, when the lagoons are at their fullest
- Location: State of Maranhão, near the town of Barreirinhas
How to Get There
Step 1: Arrive in São Luís
Fly into São Luís, the capital of Maranhão. From there, you can take a bus, shuttle, or private transfer to Barreirinhas, the gateway to the park. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours.
Step 2: Travel to Barreirinhas or Atins
- Barreirinhas is the most common starting point, offering plenty of tours, hotels, and infrastructure.
- Atins is a more remote and tranquil fishing village at the park’s southern edge, known for its rustic vibe and access to less-visited dunes.
Top Attractions in Lençóis Maranhenses
1. Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita
The two most popular lagoons in the park, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) and Lagoa Bonita (Beautiful Lagoon) live up to their names with clear, vibrant waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
How to get there:
- 4×4 tours departing from Barreirinhas
- Include dune hiking and panoramic viewpoints
2. Canto do Atins
Located in the southern part of the park, Canto do Atins is less crowded and feels more untouched. It’s ideal for those who want to escape the usual tourist path and explore lagoons with serenity.
Bonus: Try the grilled shrimp at Dona Luzia’s, a beloved local restaurant in the area.
3. Lagoa da Esperança
Accessible by boat and 4×4, Lagoa da Esperança is one of the few lagoons that remain filled almost year-round, offering a reliable spot to visit outside the peak rainy season.
What to Expect from a Typical Tour
Most tours depart from Barreirinhas and involve:
- A 4×4 ride over sandy trails
- Short hikes over dunes (barefoot recommended)
- Swimming in multiple lagoons
- Watching the sunset from the top of a dune
Tours usually last around 4 to 6 hours, and some offer sunrise or sunset versions.
If you’re more adventurous, opt for a multi-day trek, which covers up to 30 km a day across the dunes with overnight stays in local communities.
When to Visit Lençóis Maranhenses
| Month | Lagoon Conditions | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–May | Rainy season, lagoons forming | Frequent rain |
| June–August | Best time to visit | Full lagoons, clear skies |
| Sept–Oct | Lagoons start to dry | Still good, fewer crowds |
| Nov–Dec | Dry season | Most lagoons dried up |
Visiting between June and August offers the best experience—lush scenery, swimmable lagoons, and sunny days.
Where to Stay
Barreirinhas:
- Porto Preguiças Resort – Upscale with pools and river access
- Pousada do Rio – Mid-range, close to downtown
- Hostel Lençóis Maranhenses – Budget-friendly with great local tips
Atins:
- Pousada Jurará – Rustic charm with ocean breeze
- Vila Guará – Offers kite-surfing and yoga retreats
What to Pack
- Light clothes and swimwear
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Sunglasses
- Waterproof sandals
- Reusable water bottle
- Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch
- Camera or drone for stunning aerial shots
Sustainable Tourism in Lençóis Maranhenses
The park is a protected area, and tourism is carefully managed. Local guides are required for access, and many communities inside the park benefit directly from ecotourism.
By choosing eco-friendly lodges and certified tour operators, you contribute to the preservation of this rare ecosystem.
Combining Lençóis Maranhenses with Other Destinations
If you want to extend your adventure, consider:
- Delta do Parnaíba (Piauí): A river delta full of wildlife
- Jericoacoara (Ceará): Famous for beaches, sand dunes, and sunsets
- São Luís: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial Portuguese architecture
These destinations form part of the “Rota das Emoções” (Route of Emotions), a multi-stop trail through three states full of unique landscapes.
A Desert Like No Other
Lençóis Maranhenses defies expectations. It’s a desert that isn’t dry, a place where nature transforms with the seasons, and a destination where tranquility meets surreal beauty. Whether you come to float in its lagoons, climb its dunes, or simply disconnect from the world, this magical landscape will leave an imprint on your soul.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.