Welcome, Lykkers! Imagine standing on endless white sand dunes that ripple like soft sheets, dotted with turquoise lagoons shimmering under the tropical sun.

Welcome to Lencóis Maranhenses National Park, a one-of-a-kind natural wonder in northeastern Brazil. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to experience it—without stress, confusion, or missing out on the magic.

Exploring the Dreamscape

The Unique Landscape

Covering 1,550 square kilometers, Lencóis Maranhenses is a spectacle of rolling dunes interspersed with seasonal freshwater lagoons. These pools appear after the rainy season (especially from May to September), creating an enchanting mosaic of blue and green among the white sand.

Where to See the Best Lagoons

Among the most visited lagoons are Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Bonita, and Lagoa do Esperança. Visitors often enjoy sliding down the dunes and plunging into the water like carefree children. Even on busy weekends, local guides help manage the flow of tourists well.

What to Pack

Essentials include swimwear, a towel, lots of drinking water, sun protection, and a waterproof bag for electronics and valuables. It’s also smart to carry some cash for snacks at local stands.

How to Get There

The Nearest City: São Luís

Begin your trip by flying into São Luís, the capital of Maranhão. From there, it’s about a 4–5 hour drive (260 km) to the town of Barreirinhas, the most popular gateway to the park.

The Final Stretch

From Barreirinhas, you’ll join a guided off-road tour in a 4x4 vehicle. The ride includes bumpy sand trails and a short river ferry crossing. Although the journey is adventurous, the view of the dunes rising beyond the forest makes it all worthwhile.

Where to Stay

Barreirinhas

Barreirinhas offers a range of accommodations, from budget pousadas to mid-range hotels. Average prices range from \$25 to \$80 per night. Many hotels and guesthouses are located near the Rio Preguiças promenade, which is also the departure point for boat tours.

Atins

A quieter alternative is Atins, a small village on the edge of the park and a hotspot for kitesurfing. Reached by boat or a rugged 4x4 route, Atins has a more laid-back feel. Lodging here includes charming eco-lodges and boutique inns, with prices from \$40 to \$100 per night.

Transport and Tours

Public Transport

While there’s no public bus to the dunes, shared vans run between São Luís and Barreirinhas daily. Local agencies organize 4x4 tours into the park, usually departing in the morning or early afternoon.

Boat Rides and Extras

From Barreirinhas, you can take a boat along the Rio Preguiças to Atins. The route passes through mangrove forests and tiny riverside communities. For a unique experience, some tours also include hammocks, dune-top chairs, or sunset snacks.

Multi-Day Adventures

Adventurous travelers can book guided treks through the dunes, sleeping in local villages and walking between lagoons over several days. These treks cover between 7 to 22 kilometers a day and offer a deeper immersion into the landscape.

Final Tips

Best Time to Visit

Plan your visit between June and September, when the lagoons are full and the weather is stable. Outside of this period, the lagoons may be dry.

Getting Around

Sand and water rule the terrain, so standard cars are not suitable. Book guided excursions and use dune buggies or 4x4s. Walking is part of the experience, so bring comfortable footwear.

Connectivity and Services

Mobile signal is limited inside the park, and internet can be slow in remote areas. Carry printed maps and download offline resources.

Respect Nature

Stick to designated paths, avoid littering, and don’t disturb wildlife or vegetation. These efforts help preserve this fragile and rare ecosystem.

In Conclusion

Lencóis Maranhenses is more than a place—it’s a feeling. With its dreamy blend of soft dunes and crystal-clear lagoons, it offers Lykkers a break from the ordinary and a chance to step into something truly magical.

Whether floating in warm water under the sky or watching the sunset from a dune’s edge, this destination is a reminder of how surprising and beautiful nature can be. Make the journey, take your time, and let Lencóis leave its mark.