Lençóis Maranhenses
The Lençóis Maranhenses are a real gem, perhaps the most original ecosystem in Brazil. The freshwater lagoons between the dunes form a unique setting in the world and it is impossible not to get emotional when you arrive at the place and see the immensity of the “Lençóis”.
Located in the northwest of the state of Maranhão and 250 km from the capital São Luís, Lençóis Maranhenses attract tourists in search of the unique phenomenon of interdune lakes by the sea. The best thing about Lençóis Maranhenses is that, with each new portion of water between the dunes, the feeling of being in paradise is repeated.
Lençóis means sheets and it is protected by the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. It occupies an area of 155,000 hectares and is considered the largest dune park in Brazil.
Although the lagoons are the main attractions, those who visit Lençóis Maranhenses can invest in days at Caburé and Atins beaches, in trips along the Preguiças and Formiga rivers and in kitesurfing. All involving routes in 4×4 vehicles, beautiful landscapes, transparent waters, and always fine and very white sand. It is still possible to appreciate the immensity of Lençóis Maranhenses in an overflight, an unforgettable experience.
Those who want to go even deeper into the experience can walk across the national park. This route, which takes three to five days, is the dream of many adventurers and certainly the best and most intense way to experience the place.
Those who visit Lençóis Maranhenses have three main bases to take tours in the region: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro and Atins, each one with very different characteristics.
To visit Lençóis Maranhenses in all its splendor, you need to go at the beginning of the dry season, before the lakes evaporate, between June and September. You must wait for the rain to stop; it is the sunlight that illuminates the blues and greens of the most beautiful lakes.
Suggested Itinerary
Route of Emotions
Passing through several points in the northern hemisphere of Brazil, with emphasis on Lençóis Maranhenses, Delta do Parnaíba and Jericoacoara Village, the Route of Emotions is an incredible tour option in the Northeast.