The surreal landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is one of Brazil's many treasures, and this 6-day hiking itinerary will take you straight into the heart of this natural phenomenon. Rise early to catch stunning sunrises and trek through tall, white sand dunes dotted with thousands of freshwater lagoons that form in the rainy season. Enjoy quiet evenings and drift to sleep in a swaying hammock amid the sounds of nature.

Highlights

  • Wander the colorful streets of São Luís
  • Take a boat through the mangroves of Preguiças River to Atins Beach
  • Hike the sand dunes and cool off in one of the many lagoons
  • Watch the sunset from the comfort of a hammock

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in São Luís São Luís
Day 2 Barreirinhas - Atins Atins
Day 3 Oásis Baixa Grande Oásis Baixa Grande
Day 4 Oásis Queimada dos Britos Oásis Queimada dos Britos
Day 5 Oásis Queimada dos Britos - São Luís São Luís
Day 6 Departure  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: São Luís

São Luís

Arrive in the northern coastal city of São Luís and meet your driver, who will take you to your hotel. If time allows, explore the city — it's the capital and largest city of the Brazilian state of Maranhão.

Day 2: São Luís to Atins

Travel in style on the Preguiças River
Travel in style on the Preguiças River

Drive four hours to Barreirinhas before hopping on a small motorboat to Atins, located on the Preguiças River. Make a quick stop at Pequenos Lençóis to take in the panoramic view from the vantage point of the Preguiças Lighthouse (also called Mandacaru Lighthouse). Continue on and cross mangroves to reach the village of Caburé and towards the beach in Atins, where you'll be greeted by the hotel staff.

Day 3: Atins to Oásis Baixa Grande

Oásis Baixa Grande

Wake up before the sun rises and travel to Guajirú, where you will begin your trek. Walk between the dunes and freshwater lagoons until you reach Oásis Baixa Grande. Marvel at the exquisite scenery: white fine sands dotted with hundreds of refreshing, clear pools. Watch the sunset over the park from the comfort of a nearby dune before retiring for the evening on your personal hammock.

Hiking distance: 9.9 miles
Hiking duration: 5-6 hours

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Day 4: Oásis Queimada dos Britos

Queimada dos Britos

Say goodbye to Baixa Grande today, and trek a shorter distance to Oásis Queimada dos Britos. Spend your time enjoying the numerous lagoons and seemingly infinite dunes. Catch a glimpse into the small communities that call the dunes their home. Spend another night in your hammock.

Hiking distance: 6.2 miles
Hiking duration: 3-4 hours

Day 5: Oasis Queimada dos Britos to São Luís

Betania

Wake up early to avoid the day's heat and enjoy the rising sun while crossing the sands, hiking west towards the small village of Betânia. After lunch, rest your legs in an open mini-bus to Sangue. Then transfer to another vehicle to make your way back to São Luís.

Hiking distance: 9.9 miles
Hiking duration: 5-6 hours

Day 6: São Luís

São Luís, brazil
São Luís

Spend your remaining time in São Luís exploring what the city has to offer before catching your return flight home.

Map

Map of Hiking the Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - 6 Days
Map of Hiking the Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - 6 Days