Home » Maranhão Travel Guide » Access to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park can be accessed mainly through three towns: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro do Maranhão and Atins.

Each of these towns offers different ways of accessing and exploring the Park, giving visitors a unique experience.

Park Description

The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is one of Brazil’s most impressive and unique destinations, famous for its vast white sand dunes and fresh water lagoons that form during the rainy season. These lagoons are the result of rainwater collecting between the dunes, creating a landscape of unrivalled natural beauty.

Location

The park is located in the state of Maranhão, about 250 kilometres from the capital, São Luís.

Its privileged location makes it accessible, although transport can be a challenge.

Access by air

The only airport in the region is Barreirinhas Airport, which only receives charter flights from São Luís do Maranhão, at a high cost.

Therefore, the best airport for those wishing to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is São Luís International Airport, which receives direct flights from various cities in Brazil, making it easy for tourists to get there.

Access to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

1. Barreirinhas

• From São Luís: Barreirinhas is about 260 kilometres from São Luís, the capital of Maranhão. There are daily buses, as well as vans and private cars. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.
• By Plane: There are also panoramic flights that depart from São Luís and land in Barreirinhas, offering incredible aerial views of the Park.

2. Santo Amaro do Maranhão

• From São Luís: Santo Amaro is about 240 kilometres from São Luís. The journey can be made by bus or 4×4 vehicle, as the last 36 kilometres are on a sandy road.

3. Atins

• From Barreirinhas: The most common way to get to Atins is by boat on the Preguiças River. Another option is by 4×4 vehicle.

Activities and Tours in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

1. 4×4 Tours

• 4×4 vehicles are required to explore the dunes and lagoons. Guided tours are available from the three main towns and take visitors to various lagoons and points of interest.

2. Hiking and Trails

• For the more adventurous, there are trekking opportunities through the dunes with local guides. One of the most popular trails is the Travessia dos Lençóis, which can take from 3 to 5 days.

3. Scenic flights

• These offer a unique perspective of the dunes and lagoons. Panoramic flights can be hired in Barreirinhas.

4. Boat Trips

• As well as a trip along the Preguiças River, there are other boat trips to explore the mangrove region and secluded beaches.

Practical tips

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit the park is between June and September, when the lagoons are full after the rainy season (January to June).
• Clothing and Gear: Wear light clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring a swimsuit, towel and comfortable shoes for walking on the sand.
• Money: Bring cash as not all places accept credit cards, especially in the more remote areas.
• Local guides: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. They know the area well and can provide valuable information about the local fauna, flora and culture.

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 26/07/2020 · Updated on 24/05/2025

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