The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, located in the state of Maranhão, is one of the most stunning landscapes in Brazil and the world. With its vast white sand dunes interspersed with freshwater lagoons in shades of blue and green, the park offers a unique scenery that transforms with each season.
This natural paradise attracts tourists from all over the world in search of adventure, connection with nature, and breathtaking landscapes.
Location and Access
The park is located on the coast of Maranhão, covering the municipalities of Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro do Maranhão, and Primeira Cruz. The main access point is the city of Barreirinhas, about 250 km from the capital, São Luís.
Visitors can reach Barreirinhas by road from São Luís, with options including buses, vans, and private cars. From the city, 4×4 vehicle tours take tourists to the dunes and lagoons.
The Landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park spans an area of 155,000 hectares, featuring a vast desert of moving sand dunes that can reach up to 40 meters in height. What makes this park truly unique are its seasonal lagoons, which form during the rainy season, between January and June, when rainwater fills the depressions between the dunes, creating true oases.
During the dry season, some lagoons disappear, while others—deeper ones—remain full year-round, such as the famous Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) and Lagoa Bonita (Beautiful Lagoon).
Top Attractions
Lençóis Maranhenses offers a variety of unforgettable experiences. Some of the main attractions include:
1. Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita
These are the park’s most visited lagoons, known for their crystal-clear waters and towering dunes surrounding them. Lagoa Bonita offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the region.
2. Canto do Atins
Located near the ocean, Canto do Atins is famous not only for its beautiful dunes and lagoons but also for the delicious shrimp dishes served in local restaurants.
3. Preguiças River and Vassouras
A boat trip along the Preguiças River takes visitors to riverside communities, such as Vassouras, where you can see capuchin monkeys and explore the Pequenos Lençóis (Small Lençóis), a smaller version of the park’s large dunes.
4. Lagoa da Esperança
This is one of the few lagoons that remain full throughout the year, making it a great spot for a refreshing swim amidst the dunes.
5. Aerial Tour Over the Park
One of the most unforgettable experiences is taking a scenic flight over the park, offering a spectacular aerial view of the dunes and lagoons.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is between June and September, when the lagoons are full and the weather is still mild. During this period, the contrast between the white sand and turquoise water creates a truly stunning landscape.
At the end of the year, from October to December, many lagoons have dried up, but the dunes still offer an impressive sight.
Activities in the Park
Besides admiring the landscapes, visitors can enjoy several activities at Lençóis Maranhenses, such as:
- Hiking on the dunes: Walk across the white sands and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- Swimming in the lagoons: Relax in the crystal-clear waters, especially in the most well-preserved lagoons.
- 4×4 tours: The only way to access the dunes and lagoons is with appropriate vehicles, ensuring an adventurous experience.
- Boat trips on the Preguiças River: Explore riverside villages and discover the local wildlife.
- Kitesurfing in Atins: The beach in Atins is one of the best spots in Brazil for this sport.
Flora and Fauna
Despite looking like a desert, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is home to a rich biodiversity. Among the animals that inhabit the region are turtles, herons, fish, and even ocelots. The vegetation consists of restingas (coastal forests), mangroves, and cerrado (savanna-like biomes).
Tips for Visiting
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun at Lençóis Maranhenses is intense, so sun protection is essential.
- Wear light, comfortable clothing: The heat and wind can be strong, so opt for fresh, breathable outfits.
- Prepare for walking: Some dune trails require moderate physical effort.
- Carry cash: Some areas in the park have limited internet access for digital payments.
- Respect the environment: Avoid littering and help preserve the lagoons and local wildlife.
Conclusion
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is one of the most spectacular places in Brazil, blending the vastness of a desert with the unique beauty of freshwater lagoons. Its cinematic landscapes and the feeling of being in an untouched paradise make it an unforgettable destination.
Whether you want to explore the dunes, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, or simply admire one of the most breathtaking natural settings in the world, Lençóis Maranhenses is a must-visit destination in Northeastern Brazil that every traveler should experience at least once in their lifetime.
