Lençóis Maranhenses’ undulating sand dunes and fresh water lakes are truly a sight to behold. This otherworldly national park feels like being in the desert, except there’s plenty of fresh, cool water for you to swim in.
The ideal time to visit is between July to November each year. This is when the lagoons are at their fullest, ideal for swimming. The views are otherworldly – soft rippling sand dunes and inviting blue pools stretch out to the horizon. Just don’t forget your hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses?
If you want to explore Lençóis Maranhenses, there are two places you can base yourself in – the buzzing, ramshackle town of Barreirinhas or the remote, sandy village of Atins. Both have their own charms. If you have time, stay in both of them – it’s worth it.
Your trip to Lençóis Maranhenses will begin from Barreirinhas, a non-descript Brazilian riverside town. From here, you can go to the boat dock on Avenida Beira Rio and take a speed boat along the Preguiças River (Lazy River) towards the small, coastal village of Atins, where you’ll find sandy streets, charming pousadas and laid-back restaurants. It’s worth spending a day or two in Atins if you can. There are lovely places to eat, drink and relax, as well an expansive, somewhat deserted coastline to splash about in too.
Staying in Barreirinhas is a better choice if you are short on time, or if you’re looking for more budget options for accommodation. However, you can still jump onboard a 4WD to the national park and spend the day exploring the lagoons and dunes. Your tour guide will stay with you throughout your trip. Unfortunately it’s not possible to drive to Lençóis Maranhenses yourself. Only accredited vehicles can enter the park, and it would be unwise to drive around these parts unless you know the area like the back of your hand.