Solo 3-Day Adventure: Outdoor Activities in Lencois Maranhenses, Brazil

Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

3 days

Lencois Maranheses National Park
Lencois Maranheses National Park
Lencois Maranheses National Park
Lencois Maranheses National Park
Lencois Maranheses National Park

About Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

Discover the surreal beauty of Lencois Maranhenses National Park in Brazil, a unique landscape of vast white sand dunes interspersed with crystal-clear, rainwater-filled lagoons. This 1,500 square kilometer park offers an otherworldly experience, especially between June and September when the lagoons are at their fullest. Enjoy a thrilling 4x4 ride across the dunes, or for the more adventurous, try sandboarding. Don't miss the chance to witness the stunning sunset over the dunes. Despite its desert-like appearance, the park boasts a rich variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, turtles and fish in the lagoons. Lencois Maranhenses is not just a national park, it's a unique testament to nature's beauty and diversity.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Lencois Maranhenses National Park

Morning

Start your day with a guided tour to Lencois Maranhenses National Park. Explore the vast sand dunes and lagoons that make this park a unique natural wonder. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the surreal landscapes.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning landscapes of the park. The local cuisine is a delightful mix of traditional Brazilian flavors with a unique twist. Try some local delicacies like fish cooked in coconut milk or a hearty bean stew.

Afternoon

Continue your exploration of the park. Take a dip in one of the many lagoons, or simply relax and soak up the sun on the pristine sand dunes. The park is also a great place for bird watching, so keep an eye out for the local avian species.

Dinner

After a day of exploration, enjoy a relaxing dinner. Try some more local dishes, like the traditional Brazilian barbecue or a refreshing acai bowl.

Evening

Spend the evening strolling around the local town. Experience the vibrant local culture, listen to live music, and interact with the friendly locals.

Morning

Start your second day with a boat tour on the Preguicas River. The tour will take you through the beautiful mangroves, where you can spot a variety of wildlife.

Lunch

Enjoy a riverside lunch. Try some fresh seafood, like the local shrimp or fish, cooked in traditional Brazilian style.

Afternoon

Visit the small fishing village of Mandacaru. Climb the Preguicas Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking.

Dinner

Enjoy a quiet dinner in Mandacaru. Try some local dishes, like the traditional Brazilian feijoada or a refreshing caipirinha.

Evening

Spend the evening relaxing in your accommodation. Reflect on the day's adventures and prepare for the final day of your trip.

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the Blue Lagoon. This stunning lagoon is a must-see in the park. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters, or simply relax on the sand.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Blue Lagoon. Try some local snacks, like the traditional Brazilian pao de queijo or a refreshing acai smoothie.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the park on your own. Take a leisurely walk through the sand dunes, or simply relax and soak up the sun.

Dinner

Enjoy your final dinner in the local town. Try some local dishes, like the traditional Brazilian moqueca or a refreshing caipirinha.

Evening

Spend your final evening strolling around the local town. Take in the vibrant local culture, listen to live music, and interact with the friendly locals. This is your last chance to soak up the unique atmosphere of this beautiful region.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Lencois Maranhenses National Park

1
Lencois Maranhenses National Park

A vast area of rolling, white sand dunes interspersed with crystal-clear, freshwater lagoons. It's a unique and stunningly beautiful place that offers a surreal landscape, especially during the rainy season when the lagoons are full.

Parks
Attractions
Landmarks
Preguicas River

2
Preguicas River

A slow-moving river that winds its way through the national park, offering boat tours that provide a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. It's a great way to see the park's diverse flora and fauna.

Attractions
Tours
Mandacaru

3
Mandacaru

Mandacaru is a small fishing village known for its 35-meter-high lighthouse, which provides a panoramic view of the surrounding sand dunes and coastline.

Attractions
Landmarks
Preguicas Lighthouse

4
Preguicas Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.

Attractions
Landmarks
Blue Lagoon

5
Blue Lagoon

A beautiful lagoon located within the Lencois Maranhenses National Park, known for its clear, blue waters.

Attractions
Beaches

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Moqueca

Moqueca

A traditional Brazilian seafood stew made with fish, onions, garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, and coconut milk. It's a popular dish in the coastal regions near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Feijoada

Feijoada

A hearty black bean stew with pork, sausage, and sometimes beef. It's a national dish of Brazil and can be found throughout the country, including near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Vatapá

Vatapá

A rich and creamy dish made from bread, shrimp, coconut milk, finely ground nuts and palm oil mashed into a creamy paste. It's a popular dish in the northeastern regions of Brazil, including Maranhão.

Pão de Queijo

Pão de Queijo

A small, baked cheese roll, a popular snack and breakfast food in Brazil. It's a common food item you can find in local bakeries near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Pastel

Pastel

A Brazilian street food classic, Pastel is a thin crust pie with assorted fillings, fried in vegetable oil. It's a common snack you can find in local markets near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro

A sweet Brazilian delicacy made of condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles covering the outside layer. It's a popular dessert throughout Brazil, including near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Caipirinha

Caipirinha

Brazil's national cocktail, made with cachaça (sugar cane hard liquor), sugar, and lime. It's a refreshing drink that's popular throughout the country, including near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Acarajé

Acarajé

A deep-fried ball of dough made from black-eyed peas, filled with vatapá, caruru, tomato salad, and shrimp. It's a popular street food in the northeastern regions of Brazil, including Maranhão.

Farofa

Farofa

A toasted cassava flour mixture, often served with rice and beans. It's a common side dish throughout Brazil, including near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Coxinha

Coxinha

A popular Brazilian snack, Coxinha is a chicken croquette shaped like a chicken drumstick. It's a common snack you can find in local bakeries near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Guaraná Antarctica

Guaraná Antarctica

A popular Brazilian soft drink made from the fruit of the Guaraná plant. It's a refreshing beverage that's popular throughout the country, including near Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Bobó de Camarão

Bobó de Camarão

A creamy shrimp stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and palm oil. It's a popular dish in the northeastern regions of Brazil, including Maranhão.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lencois Maranhenses National Park in Brazil is between May and September. During these months, the region experiences heavy rainfall, which fills the park's vast, white sand dunes with crystal-clear lagoons, creating a surreal and breathtaking landscape. The weather is also quite pleasant during this period, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and photography.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 12

Mon

Carnival Monday

February 13

Tue

Carnival Tuesday

February 14

Wed

Carnival end (until 2pm)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 21

Sun

Tiradentes Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

September 7

Sat

Independence Day

October 12

Sat

Our Lady of Aparecida / Children's Day

October 28

Mon

Public Service Holiday

November 2

Sat

All Souls' Day

November 15

Fri

Republic Proclamation Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve (from 2pm)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 31

Tue

New Year's Eve (from 2pm)

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The closest airport to Lencois Maranhenses National Park is in Sao Luis, the capital of Maranhao state. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach the park.

From Sao Luis, you can take a bus to the towns of Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, or Atins, which are the main gateways to the park. The bus ride can take between 4 to 5 hours.

Renting a car from Sao Luis is another option. The drive to the park can take around 4 hours. However, please note that the roads can be rough and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

Once in Barreirinhas, you can take a boat ride along the Preguicas River to reach the park. This is a scenic route and you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the region.

Many tour operators offer 4x4 vehicle tours from Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, or Atins to the park. This is the most common way to explore the park as the terrain is sandy and requires a 4x4 vehicle.

Once you are in the park, the best way to explore is on foot. You can walk around the sand dunes and lagoons at your own pace. However, it is recommended to hire a local guide as the park is vast and it's easy to get lost.

Ridesharing services are not commonly used in this region due to its remote location and the nature of the terrain. It's more common to hire a car or use local tour operators.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyR$ BRL

Time zoneFederal District

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 192 or 193 ; Fire: 193; Police: 190

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type N

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil as a first time visitor

1

Lencois Maranhenses National Park is located in the northeastern state of Maranhão, Brazil.

2

The park is not accessible by road all year round. The best time to visit is between May and September, when the lagoons are at their fullest.

3

The park spans over 1500 square kilometers, so be prepared for a lot of walking or consider hiring a guide who can navigate the vast landscape.

4

Despite its desert-like appearance, Lencois Maranhenses receives about 47 inches (1200 mm) of rainfall annually, much more than a typical desert.

5

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds, turtles, and fish that live in the lagoons.

6

There are no facilities or accommodations within the park itself. The nearest towns with accommodations are Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and Atins.

7

The park's sand dunes can reach up to 40 meters in height. Climbing them can be physically demanding, so ensure you are in good health and fitness.

8

The temperature in the park can range from 77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 35 degrees Celsius). Be sure to stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

9

The park is best explored by 4x4 vehicles, boats, or on foot. Other types of vehicles are not suitable for the sandy terrain.

10

The lagoons in the park are freshwater and safe for swimming. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.

11

The park is a protected area, so respect the environment by not littering and by not disturbing the wildlife.

12

There are no restaurants or shops in the park. Bring enough food, water, and other essentials for your visit.

13

Guided tours are available and recommended for first-time visitors. They can provide valuable information about the park's ecosystem and help navigate the vast landscape.

14

The park is not wheelchair accessible due to its sandy terrain.

15

The park is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Overnight stays are not allowed.

16

The park's landscape changes dramatically throughout the year. The lagoons are fullest between May and September, while the rest of the year the area is mostly sand dunes.

17

The park has no entrance fee, but guided tours and transportation to the park will have costs.

18

There are no medical facilities in the park. The nearest hospitals are in the towns of Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro.

19

The park is a popular location for sandboarding. However, you will need to bring your own equipment as there are no rental facilities in the park.

20

Despite its remote location, the park can get crowded during the peak season (July and August). Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons for a more peaceful experience.

Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Olá

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Tchau

Chow

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Obrigado

O-bri-ga-do

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Sim

Seem

Agreeing or confirming

No

Não

Nown

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Com licença

Kom li-sen-sa

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Desculpe

Desh-kul-pe

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Você fala inglês?

Vo-se fa-la in-glesh?

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

Eu não entendo

Ew nown en-ten-do

Having trouble understanding

Where is...?

Onde é...?

On-deh eh...?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Banheiro

Ban-ye-ro

Looking for the restroom

Help

Ajuda

A-ju-da

In need of assistance

Food

Comida

Ko-mi-da

Looking for something to eat

Water

Água

A-gwa

Looking for something to drink

How much does it cost?

Quanto custa?

Kwan-to cus-ta?

Asking for the price

I would like...

Eu gostaria...

Ew gos-ta-ria...

Making a request

Beautiful

Bonito

Bo-ni-to

Complimenting or describing something

Beach

Praia

Pra-ya

Talking about the beach

Sand dunes

Dunas de areia

Do-nas de a-re-ya

Talking about the sand dunes

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Water shoes

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Rain jacket

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Soap

  • Deodorant

  • Personal medication

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Brazilian visa (if required)

  • Travel insurance

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Brazilian Real)

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook

  • Map of Lencois Maranhenses National Park

  • Backpack

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

Weather Conditions

When planning your trip to Lencois Maranhenses National Park in Brazil, it's important to consider the weather as it can greatly impact your experience. The park experiences a tropical climate, with a wet season from January to June and a dry season from July to December. During the wet season, the region receives heavy rainfall, which fills the park's famous sand dunes with beautiful, clear lagoons. This is the best time to visit if you want to see this unique phenomenon. However, be prepared for high humidity and temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C). It's advisable to pack waterproof clothing and footwear, as well as sun protection. The dry season, on the other hand, is characterized by less rainfall and lower humidity. The temperatures during this period can reach up to 95°F (35°C) during the day, dropping to around 68°F (20°C) at night. This is a great time to visit if you prefer a more arid climate and want to explore the sand dunes without the lagoons. Don't forget to pack lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. Regardless of when you visit, remember that weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, consider booking guided tours as local guides have a wealth of knowledge about the park's weather patterns and can ensure you have the best experience possible.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

33° / 24°

January is the start of the rainy season, with frequent showers and high humidity. Despite the rain, temperatures are warm, making it a good time for sightseeing.

February

33° / 24°

February continues the rainy season, with lush vegetation and full lagoons. It's a great time for photography, but be prepared for occasional showers.

March

33° / 24°

March is the peak of the rainy season, with the highest rainfall of the year. The lagoons are at their fullest, offering stunning landscapes.

April

33° / 24°

In April, the rain starts to lessen, but the lagoons remain full. The weather is warm and humid, perfect for exploring the park's unique ecosystem.

May

33° / 24°

May marks the end of the rainy season, with less frequent showers. The lagoons are still full, making it an ideal time for swimming and boating.

June

33° / 24°

June is the start of the dry season, with clear skies and warm temperatures. The lagoons start to shrink, but are still large enough for swimming.

July

33° / 24°

July is the peak of the dry season, with hot temperatures and clear skies. The lagoons continue to shrink, but the weather is perfect for sunbathing and sandboarding.

August

33° / 24°

In August, the weather remains dry and hot. The lagoons are smaller, but the clear skies make it a great time for stargazing.

September

33° / 24°

September continues the dry season, with hot temperatures and clear skies. The lagoons are at their smallest, but the weather is perfect for exploring the sand dunes.

October

33° / 24°

October marks the start of the rainy season, with occasional showers. The lagoons start to fill again, offering a different landscape to explore.

November

33° / 24°

November continues the rainy season, with frequent showers. Despite the rain, the temperatures are warm, making it a good time for sightseeing.

December

33° / 24°

December is the peak of the rainy season, with the highest rainfall of the year. The lagoons are at their fullest, offering stunning landscapes.

Did you know?

Did you know that Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, spans over 1500 square kilometers, making it larger than the city of Sao Paulo?

1 of 10

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