Lençóis Maranhenses
★★★ Lençóis Maranhenses — The Desert That Isn't
The Lençóis Maranhenses are one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth: Thousands of snow-white sand dunes, up to 40 meters high, stretch over 155,000 hectares — and between them lie hundreds of crystal-clear, turquoise freshwater lagoons. It looks like the Sahara flooded with Caribbean water.
The lagoons fill with rainwater during the rainy season (Jan–Jun). The best time to visit is June to September: The lagoons are full, the sun shines, and the dunes glow dazzling white. From October, the lagoons slowly dry up.
The Main Lagoons
- Lagoa Azul: The "Blue Lagoon" — the most famous and easiest to reach. Deep blue, framed by white dunes. Accessible by 4×4 jeep from Barreirinhas (1h).
- Lagoa Bonita: The "Beautiful Lagoon" — a bit further, less visited, larger. Swim in warm freshwater with a dune panorama.
- Lagoa Tropical: Remote, accessible by trekking. Bathtub-warm water, almost no other visitors.
Practical Information
Barreirinhas is the gateway to the Lençóis: A small town on the Rio Preguiças with hotels, pousadas, and tour agencies. Arrival by flight to São Luís (capital of Maranhão), then bus or transfer (4h). All tours start here — 4×4 jeeps, boats, and trekking tours can be booked through local agencies.
Atins: A tiny fishing and hippie village at the mouth of the Rio Preguiças, accessible by boat from Barreirinhas. Sand streets, kitesurfing, tranquility, and secluded lagoons — the anti-tourism program. For adventurers and digital nomads.
Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses. No entrance fee. Best time: Jun–Sep. Tours from Barreirinhas: Half-day 100–150 BRL (17–25€), full-day 200–300 BRL. Be sure to bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and closed sandals!