Santo Amaro do Maranhão: The Paradise of the Lagoons

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Santo Amaro do Maranhão is a charming village and one of the main gateways to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

Although less well known than Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro do Maranhão offers a quieter and more authentic experience, with stunning landscapes and an intimate connection with nature.

Location and access

The parish of Santo Amaro do Maranhão is located 113 kilometres from the capital of Maranhão, São Luís.

It is a quiet town that can be considered the ‘B-side’ of the Lençóis Maranhenses and is a must for those wishing to explore the entire National Park.

Unlike Barreirinhas, where the entrance is busier, Santo Amaro allows visitors to park their vehicles near the Andorinha and Gaivota lagoons and the Betânia Circuit, although the town’s infrastructure is simpler.

Mapa do Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses — Map of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Covering an area of 300 square kilometres, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is known as the Brazilian “desert”.

It is characterised by huge dunes surrounding freshwater lagoons formed by rain and groundwater.

During the dry months, which usually occur between May and September, the lagoons can dry up, turning the landscape into a vast desert.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is between May and September. During this period, the lagoons are full due to the rains that occur between December and April, offering stunning scenery and a milder climate.

In addition, the dry season allows visitors to enjoy the dunes and lagoons more comfortably, without the risk of heavy rains that can affect access to the attractions. Therefore, planning your visit for these months guarantees a more enjoyable and complete experience in the Park.

Videos – Tourist Attractions in Santo Amaro do Maranhão

Vila de Santo Amaro do Maranhão03:07

Santo Amaro, Betânia, Andorinhas e Quadriciclo nas dunas10:00

Lagoa das Emendadas, a Lagoa das Andorinhas e a Lagoa das Gaivotas06:20

Santo Amaro - Guia de Turismo

Vilarejo Betânia em Santo Amaro do Maranhão - Lençóis Maranhenses

Vilarejo Betânia em Santo Amaro do Maranhão03:07

As lagoas de Santo Amaro do Maranhão05:05

Attractions and activities in Santo Amaro do Maranhão

1. Seagull Lagoon

Lagoa da Gaivota is considered the most beautiful landscape in the National Park and is an important nesting site for seagulls, offering a unique bird-watching opportunity.

2. Betânia Lagoon

Located in the village of Betânia, this lagoon has an impressive range of colours and is surrounded by dunes, making it an unforgettable visual experience.

3. Lagoa das Emendadas

Accessible only by foot, the Emendadas Lagoons form a system of interdunal lagoons that stretch for miles, giving visitors a true sense of the grandeur of the Lençóis Maranhenses.

4. Swallow Lagoon

Ideal for a refreshing swim, this lagoon is renowned for its natural beauty and unforgettable sunsets.

5. Canoeing on the Rio Alegre

A canoe trip down the Alegre River is a relaxing way to explore the local flora and fauna, and an excellent opportunity for birdwatching.

6. Dune walks and trails

Guided walks through the dunes offer breathtaking views and the chance to discover hidden lagoons.

7. 4×4 Tours

These tours are an exciting way to explore the dunes with stops for swimming in the lagoons.

8. Santo Amaro Beach

Although not the main attraction, this beach is a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the village.

9. Travosa Beach

Located near the village of Travosa, this beach is famous for its length and the beauty of the dunes in the background. A surfing championship is held in the area in April, attracting visitors and surfers.

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 14/07/2021 · Updated on 17/05/2025