Lençóis Maranhenses Sand Dunes Half-Day Tour with Sunset

Barreirinhas , Brazil

Lençóis Maranhenses Sand Dunes Half-Day Tour with Sunset

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

The Lençóis Maranhenses sand dunes are located on the eastern coast of Maranhão. The tour departs from the municipality of Barreirinhas which is the main gateway to this fantastic natural beauty. The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is considered a rare geological formation on the planet, presenting a unique and very rich ecosystem. The dunes span from the coast to 15 miles inland, and in between the sand dunes are countless clear lagoons. These lagoons are formed with the rains of the rainy season that ranges from December to July. This tour will take you to this grand, unique National Park. We visit one of the different lagoons depending on time of year: Lagoa Azul (May to August) or Lagoa Esperança (September to April).

Available options

Lençóis Maranhenses Sand Dunes Half-Day Tour with Sunset

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation in 4x4 vehicle

Professional Guide - portuguese speaking

Visit to a lagoon (Lagoa Azul - May to August / Lagoa Esperança - September to April)

Round-trip transportation to most hotels located in Barreirinhas

Detailed itinerary

After pick up at the hotels, you will proceed to one of the most popular and beautiful itineraries in the region, the Lagoa Bonita Circuit, located in the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Located on the banks of the Preguiças River, it has 155 thousand hectares of stunning scenery, full of dunes up to 40 meters high and lagoons of fresh and crystalline water. You will cross the Preguiças River through Ferry Boat to continue your journey,

You will continue your journey in a 4x4 vehicle where you will cover a trail (15 km) that takes an average of 1 hour to reach the bottom of the dunes. From there begins a walk (how about bare feet to feel the sand?) through the sands of the dunes, highlighting a steeper climb, 30 meters high, but done with the help of a rope.

At the end of the trail ride, you will begin a walk in the sand (shoes optional, if you want to walk with bare feet to feel the sand) where you will catch beautiful views of the park. You will also see several lagoons that are formed by seasonal rains. Depending on time of year, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in Lagoa Azul (May to August) and marvel at the sunset show. After the day’s activities you will then return to Barreirinhas with arrival scheduled for 7 pm.

At the end of the trail ride, you will begin a walk in the sand (shoes optional, if you want to walk with bare feet to feel the sand) where you will catch beautiful views of the park. You will also see several lagoons that are formed by seasonal rains. Depending on time of year, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in Lagoa da Esperança (September to April) and marvel at the sunset show. After the day’s activities you will then return to Barreirinhas with arrival scheduled for 7 pm.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wear light clothing. Also bring a swim suit to enjoy the Lagoons.

A stop will be made at a market so you can buy water, soda, fruit and cookies (alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the park).

Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

It is important to note that the lagoons change every rainy season and also from one week to another, depending on the amount of rain and the dry season.

We visit one of the different lagoons depending on time of year: Lagoa Azul (May to August) or Lagoa Esperança (September to April).

Important notes

* Please contact Gray Line Brazil at 55 (21) 3586-8687 or 55 (21) 99777‑5888 to confirm your tour at least 48 hours prior to the activity time. Please have your voucher in hand to present to the guide upon boarding. Office working hours: from 7am to 9pm (local time) daily.

About Barreirinhas

Barreirinhas is a charming coastal town in northeastern Brazil, renowned as the gateway to the stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. This unique destination offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit for adventurous travelers.

Top Attractions

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

A stunning national park famous for its unique white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature Full day R$ 100-200 for guided tours

Caburé Beach

A beautiful beach near Barreirinhas, known for its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Beach Half day Free

Ponteio Eco Resort

An eco-resort located within the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, offering guided tours, accommodations, and a unique experience in the heart of nature.

Nature Full day or overnight R$ 300-500 for tours and accommodations

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bobó de Camarão

A traditional Brazilian dish made with shrimp, cassava flour, and coconut milk.

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy.

Peixe Frito

Fried fish, often served with farofa (toasted cassava flour) and salad.

Dinner Contains fish and gluten (from farofa).

Tapioca

A crepe-like dish made from tapioca flour, often filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

Breakfast Gluten-free, can be vegetarian or vegan.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Lençóis Maranhenses Swimming in lagoons Sunbathing at Caburé Beach Enjoying local cuisine Visiting local markets Exploring the town center Beach activities Exploring the unique landscapes of Lençóis Maranhenses

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season, offering the best conditions for visiting Lençóis Maranhenses. The lagoons are at their fullest, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

24-32°C 75-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: Portuguese
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Barreirinhas is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Trombetas Airport • 10 km from Barreirinhas

By bus

Barreirinhas Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Barreirinhas. They are affordable but may not be very frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps, hail taxis on the street

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Beach Area

Day trips

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

50 km from Barreirinhas • Full day

Explore the stunning white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons of this unique national park.

Caburé Beach

20 km from Barreirinhas • Half day

A beautiful beach near Barreirinhas, known for its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Festivals

Festa de São Benedito • March

Pro tips

Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Carry cash for small purchases and tips, as card acceptance can be limited.
Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.