3-Day Solo Adventure: Offbeat Lencois Maranhenses Outdoor Exploration
Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
3 days
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 2
Boat Tour along Preguiças River and Visit to Atins
Morning
Start your second day with a boat tour along the Preguiças River. Enjoy the lush greenery and keep an eye out for local wildlife.
Lunch
Have a riverside picnic lunch. Enjoy the tranquility of the river and the surrounding nature.
Afternoon
Visit the small fishing village of Atins. Explore the local culture and lifestyle of the villagers.
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local eatery in Atins. Try local specialties like shrimp and fish cooked in traditional Brazilian style.
Evening
Take a leisurely stroll along the beach in Atins. Enjoy the serene beauty of the evening sky and the sound of the waves.
Day 3
Sunrise Hike and Sandboarding in Lencois Maranhenses National Park
Morning
Start your final day with a sunrise hike to the top of a sand dune. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the sun rising over the park.
Lunch
Have a packed lunch while enjoying the panoramic views of the park from the top of a sand dune.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon Sandboarding down the dunes. It's an exhilarating experience that you won't forget.
Dinner
Have your final dinner in the park. Try some local desserts like Brigadeiro (chocolate truffle) and Pudim (caramel pudding).
Evening
End your trip with a quiet evening by a lagoon. Reflect on your experiences and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Preguiças River
The Preguiças River is a major waterway in the Lencois Maranhenses National Park, offering boat tours and a chance to see local wildlife.
2Atins
A small, remote fishing village located on the edge of the national park. It's known for its beautiful beach, laid-back vibe, and delicious, fresh seafood. It's a great place to relax after exploring the park.
3Sandboarding
A popular activity in the park where visitors can slide down the dunes on a board.
4Boat tour along Preguiças River
A boat tour along the Preguiças River, offering views of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
5Guided tour of the park
A guided tour through the park, exploring the unique ecosystem and stunning landscapes.
6Lencois 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.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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) |
How to get around
Flight
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.
Bus
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.
Car Rental
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.
Boat
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.
4x4 Vehicle Tour
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.
Foot
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
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.
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
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
São Luís
The capital city of Maranhão, known for its colonial Portuguese architecture and traditional Bumba Meu Boi festival.
Jericoacoara
A beach town with stunning sand dunes and a relaxed vibe. Known for its windsurfing and kite-surfing.
Parnaíba
A city known for its beautiful beaches and the Delta do Parnaíba, a unique river delta.
Teresina
The capital of Piauí, known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture.
Fortaleza
A bustling city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. It's also a gateway to the stunning beaches of Ceará.
Belém
A city known for its colonial architecture and the Ver-o-Peso market, one of the largest open-air markets in Latin America.
Recife
A city known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant culture.
Salvador
A city known for its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, and stunning beaches.
Manaus
A city in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, known for its rich biodiversity and vibrant culture.
Brasília
The capital of Brazil, known for its modernist architecture and cultural landmarks.
