Barreirinhas is considered the main gateway to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and is home to most of the tourist agencies.
This city, Barreirinhas, is an excellent base from which to explore the wonders of the Lençóis Maranhenses, with a variety of activities to suit different interests and levels of adventure.
Access and structure
Although it is possible to access the park via the neighbouring Santo Amaro do Maranhão and Primeira Cruz, it is in Barreirinhas that most tourists are concentrated.
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park consists of a vast area of high white sand dunes and lakes and lagoons, also known as the Brazilian Desert. The main access to Barreirinhas is via the MA-402 motorway, which is in good condition.
Barreirinhas has a good structure for accommodation and food, and several tourist agencies offer trips to the National Park and other attractions, such as the Speedboat Trip to the mouth of the Preguiças River and the Boia Cross on the Formiga River.
Best time to visit Barreirinhas
The best time to visit the Lençóis Maranhenses of Barreirinhas is between June and September, when the lagoons are full due to the rains that occur between January and May.
During these months, visitors can appreciate the beauty of the lagoons, which become real postcards of the region. It’s important to note that outside this period, some of the lagoons may be dry, which can affect the experience in Barreirinhas.
Climate in Barreirinhas
The climate of Barreirinhas is tropical, with two distinct seasons: the rainy season, which lasts from January to May, and the dry season, which lasts from June to December.
Temperatures vary between 25°C and 35°C and are warmer during the day. Visitors to Barreirinhas are advised to prepare for the heat by bringing light clothing, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Route of Emotions
For those seeking more adventure, another access route is via Paulino Neves – MA. This route is part of the Route of Emotions, a tourist route that starts in Ceará, crosses the Piauí coast and ends in Maranhão.
Along this route it is possible to visit three federal protected areas: the Jericoacoara National Park, the Parnaíba Delta Environmental Protection Area and the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
Access to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park from Barreirinhas begins with a ferry across the Preguiças River. From this point, only 4×4 vehicles equipped with snorkels can proceed.
Videos – Attractions in Barreirinhas and Lençóis Maranhenses
Barreirinhas no Maranhão - Guia de Turismo02:55
Barreirinhas, Atins, dunas e o oásis do Maranhão13:54
Lençóis Maranhenses a partir de Barreirinhas
Passeio de lancha pelo RIO PREGUIÇAS03:07
Tourist Attractions in Barreirinhas
1. Blue Lagoon Circuit
This is the most visited attraction in the reserve. After 12 kilometres of sand bank trails, the walk continues through the dune field on a trail of about 2 kilometres. Along the way you can visit the Preguiça Lagoon, the Esmeralda Lagoon, the Blue Lagoon and the Peixe Lagoon, the only perennial lagoon with water all year round.
2. Lagoa Bonita Circuit
Located 15 km from Barreirinhas, Lagoa Bonita is moderately difficult to access, requiring you to climb a steep dune about 30 metres high. The effort is rewarded with beautiful views of the dune field and the restinga vegetation of the National Park.
3. Lagoa da Esperança
This lagoon is the result of an interruption in the flow of the Rio Negro and is ideal for visiting during the dry months, when the lagoons of other attractions are dry. The Esperança Lagoon forms the geographical boundary between the municipalities of Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro.
4. Atins
The village of Atins, located opposite the mouth of the Preguiças River, is popular with visitors seeking tranquillity and close contact with nature. In Atins you can practise sports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding.
5. Canto dos Lençóis
Located inside the park, Canto dos Lençóis is a small village of traditional fishermen. It offers beautiful views of the dune field and is a good starting point for the walk to the parish of Santo Amaro.
6. Foz do Rio Negro and Lagoa Verde
The mouth of the Rio Negro is an attraction where you can swim in small waterfalls by the sea. The route includes a visit to interdunal lagoons such as Lagoa Verde, which is flooded for much of the year.
7. Boat trip on the Preguiças River
A boat trip on the Preguiças River is a must, as it is surrounded by lush vegetation and leads to small villages and enchanting beaches.
The main stops include Mandacaru Village, famous for its lighthouse, and Caburé Beach, ideal for relaxing.
8. Beira Rio in Barreirinhas
The riverside in Barreirinhas is a pleasant place to stroll, with restaurants, bars and local craft shops making it a great place to relax after a day of exploring.
9. Canoeing on the Formiga River
Canoeing on the river Formiga offers a peaceful experience and allows visitors to observe the local fauna.
10. Hiking and trails
There are a number of trails that allow you to explore the unique landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses. These include the Dunes Trail and the Santo Amaro Trail.
11. Quad Bike Tours
These tours offer an exciting way to explore the dunes and beaches, including visits to lagoons and nearby villages.
12. Queimada dos Britos and Baixa Grande
These areas are true oases, perfect for staying overnight while trekking through the Park.
Visits are made with minimal environmental impact, and it is compulsory to hire a visitor guide for the crossing.
Publicações Relacionadas
Atins: A Hidden Gem on the Maranhão Coast
Kitesurfing in Atins: Your Ultimate Guide
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - Travel Guide
Caburé: A Hidden Gem in Lençóis Maranhenses
Best Time to Visit Lençóis Maranhenses for Water Fun
Access to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Santo Amaro do Maranhão: The Paradise of the Lagoons
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