Embark on a 3-day trip through the Lençóis Maranhenses

The Lençóis Maranhenses offer a truly memorable travel experience to those lucky enough to explore this natural paradise.

The Lençóis Maranhenses, with its white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons, is one of Brazil’s most impressive natural gems. Can you imagine taking a three-day walk through this paradise? It is a journey of connection with nature and unforgettable discoveries not to be missed.

Paradise called Lençóis Maranhenses

Located in the state of Maranhão, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park covers about 155,000 hectares. To get an idea of this immensity, you could fit the entire city of São Paulo inside the Park.

The extensive white sand dunes are adorned by thousands of freshwater lagoons that form during the rainy season, between February and May. But they all dry up in the dry season, which begins in June and lasts until January. Only two lagoons resist the drought: Esperança and Peixe.

Fun fact: You know that big, messy sheet on the bed? The undulations and valleys of the sheet perfectly describe the landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses. And it was this visual similarity that inspired the poetic name of this paradise.

Walking through the vast expanse of sand

All this beauty has attracted and enchanted thousands of tourists from all over the world. And you will be amazed too. Even better if you can enjoy a 3-day hike through the Lençóis Maranhenses, leaving from the town of Barreirinhas and arriving in Santo Amaro. The tour is done with the support of local guides with experience in hiking in the National Park.

Along the way, the guide will stop in strategic villages. There you will be able to eat, buy water (or fill your bottle) and rest for a while in a hammock. Do not forget to bring cash, as ATMs do not work in the region.

First day of the crossing

The day starts in Barreirinhas at 5 am. In a 4×4 car you will head towards the National Park. The stop will be at Rio Negro, where you will be able to contemplate a beautiful sunrise. It is time to connect with nature and start the hike to the village of Oásis Baixa Grande, home to six families who preserve their traditions.

The 6-kilometer trek lasts between 2 and 3 hours, with strategic stops to bathe in the crystal-clear lagoons. Upon arrival in the village, you can have lunch and, in the afternoon, enjoy the local lagoons and admire the sunset. Take advantage of the free time to explore the locals’ backyard and have a good chat with them. Oh, and don’t leave without tasting a tiquira – manioc brandy, typical of the region!

Tonight, you will sleep in the home of one of these families – choose your corner and sleep as much as you can!

Second day

The day starts with breakfast at 4.30 am. Eat well, because the 12 km hike starts at 5 am, heading to the Oasis Queimada dos Britos village. You will cross the Rio Negro, see the sunrise and bathe in wonderful lagoons. Arrival is around 10 am and you will have the rest of the day to have lunch, rest, explore the region and enjoy the sunset.

The village has 18 families and you will sleep in the house of one of them, so take the opportunity to renew your energy!

Third and last day

We have reached the last day of this trip. Departure is scheduled for 3 am. The 14 km hike takes us to Lagoa do Cajueiro, a real oasis in the middle of the desert. The journey takes an average of 6 hours, with stops to rest, watch the sunrise and bathe in the lagoons.

Arrival at Lagoa do Cajueiro is scheduled for 9 am. There, a 4×4 vehicle will be waiting for you to continue the trip to Santo Amaro. The trip lasts approximately one hour and marks the end of this journey of knowledge and contemplation. In ecstasy, you will stop to think about everything you have experienced during these days, moments you will tell everyone about for the rest of your life!

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The climate of Lençóis Maranhenses is tropical, with generally warm temperatures throughout the year. So, don’t skimp on sun protection and hydration. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Oh, and your backpack should be light, with only the essentials. At the end of this trip, you can take a van directly to São Luís or back to Barreirinhas. But there is also the possibility of staying in Santo Amaro and enjoying the region a little more. Choose the best option and go ahead!

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