Route of Emotions Natural Parks
- Northeast - Ceará / Piauí / Maranhão
Experience an unforgettable journey through stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and three treasures of the northeastern coast
The Route of Emotions offers an extraordinary experience and reveals dreamlike panoramas as it crosses three states in Northeast Brazil. Spanning 900 kilometers, the itinerary connects Jericoacoara National Park (Ceará), the Parnaíba Delta Environmental Protection Area (Piauí), and Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (Maranhão), forming a mosaic of dunes, rivers, lagoons, mangroves, and pristine beaches. Internationally recognized for its Unesco World Heritage sites and exuberant nature, this journey is an invitation to enchantment, contact with welcoming communities, and the discovery of emotions that only Brazil can evoke.
Visit the Route of Emotions Parks
EXPERIENCES
Every step unveils a new universe
In Lençóis Maranhenses, nature surprises at every turn. Watch the sunset from atop the dunes, where the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink reflected in the crystal-clear waters. Explore the Blue Lagoon (“Lagoa Azul”) and Beautiful Lagoon (“Lagoa Bonita”) circuits in Barreirinhas or venture to more conserved lagoons in Santo Amaro, such as Betânia and Espigão.
Take a boat trip along Rio Preguiças, visiting villages like Vassouras and Caburé, home of the Preguiças Lighthouse.
Nature in motion with the tides
The Parnaíba Delta offers remarkable experiences for those seeking contemplation, ecotourism, and a deep connection with nature. Embark on a boat trip through the canals and discover constantly transforming landscapes. At the end of the afternoon, prepare for one of the most exciting spectacles in the region: hundreds of birds with intense red plumage streak across the sky as they return to Guará Island, creating a show of vibrant colors.
Visit Caju Island and explore five distinct ecosystems: mangroves, dunes, forests, fields, and saltwater wetlands. Discover beaches like Pedra do Sal, Atalaia, Coqueiro, Barra Grande, and of course, Portinho Lagoon and Poldros Island
Witness the migration of fish during reproduction and venture on a quadricycle tour through the Piauí “lençóis” (sand dunes).
Between wind, sea, and culture — a call to freedom
With ideal winds for sports, calm seas, and cinematic landscapes, Jericoacoara is perfect for outdoor lovers and scenic views. In Jericoacoara, Try kitesurfing on Preá Beach or relax practicing stand-up paddle. Conditions also favor windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing.
Relax at Jericoacoara Beach with excellent infrastructure, and dive into local lagoons: Paraíso, Azul, Tatajuba, and Lagoa da Torta. Capture the moment at the iconic Pedra Furada, Jeri’s landmark.
Watch the sunset from prime locations such as Duna do Pôr do Sol (Sunset Dune), Barrinha de Baixo, Lagoas do Amâncio, and local rooftops, where the sky transforms with good music.
Jeri’s nightlife blends local rhythms with international flavors: beach bars, cozy restaurants, and traditional forró that gets everyone dancing under the stars.
Flavors, sounds, and traditions with a Northeastern soul
Visiting the parks along the Route of Emotions is also a journey through a Northeast full of stories, rhythms, and flavors revealed at every step.
In Maranhão, the Bumba Meu Boi festivals take over the streets between June and July. São Luís, a Unesco World Heritage historic center, captivates with its architecture and African influences in faith, art, and music. In Ceará, local handicrafts add a special touch to the cultural route.
Gastronomy is a true celebration of the senses! In Maranhão, dishes like peixada, caldeirada, cuxá rice, and crab pie reveal fusion of indigenous, Portuguese, and French traditions. The famous cajuína and cassava recipes, sun-dried meat, and regional spices delight in Piauí. Fresh seafood and creative use of tapioca enchant visitors in Ceará, proving that simplicity can be full of flavor.
HOW TO GET THERE?
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Weather
The Northeast of Brazil has a tropical climate with generally high temperatures year-round.
Best time to visit
Parks along the Route of Emotions can be visited any time of the year and each season reveals unique beauties and different ways of experiencing destinations. From June to December, during the drier season, natural attractions are in ideal conditions for tourism.
Practical tips
Remember to bring sunscreen and be hydrated. Wear a hat or cap, sunglasses, and light clothing to enjoy the sun comfortably and safely.
Official tourism website
Embratur and Visit Brasil are not responsible in cases of poor performance or not providing the experience conveyed. Service providers are solely responsible for the activities sold.
Soon, more natural parks itineraries will be launched.
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