Lençóis Maranhenses National Park: Travel to Brazil

Lencois Maranhenses National Park

The Lencois Maranhenses National Park protects one of the most stunning landscapes in South America: over 570 square miles of towering white dunes, interlaced with emerald lagoons. Spread out like lencois (bed sheets) on the Northeast Coast of Brazil, these sparkling dunes formed as river sediments of the eons drifted inland on ocean winds.

From January to June the desert valleys and flats fill with rainwater, forming crystal clear lakes. Miraculously, fish, turtles, and crabs inhabit the larger lagoons at Lencois Maranhenses.

What to do in Lencois Maranhenses

Accompanied by certified guides, park visitors can ride dune buggies, swim in the lagoons, and enjoy 30 miles of deserted beaches. Other excursions include river tours, wildlife viewing in the nearby mangroves, and fishing trips.

What is the Weather Like?

Lençóis Maranhenses offers steady tropical warmth year-round—expected daytime temperatures hover between 85°F and 95°F, and balance of warm nights in the mid-70s °F. It experiences a lush rainy stretch from January to May. The best time to visit is from May to October when the rains have abated, but the lagoons are still flooded. Sun protection (including sunglasses) is essential.

These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.

Getting There

Lencois Maranhenses is most easily reached by flights to Sao Luis (SLZ), the nearest major airport with regular flights from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasilia. From São Luís, it’s a 4–5 hour drive to Barreirinhas, the main gateway town. The dunes can be accessed by 4×4 transfers.

Start your journey today

LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Lencois Maranhenses.