Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

LENÇÓIS MARANHENSES NATIONAL PARK

Imagine walking among white sand dunes stretching to the horizon, discovering crystal-clear lagoons between them. This is Lençóis Maranhenses, a nearly surreal landscape that seems sculpted by nature itself.

Located in a transition zone between the cerrado, caatinga, and Amazon biomes, the park features coastal restingas, free dune fields, and a stunning oceanfront. This paradise can be the starting or final stop on your Route of Emotions journey.

Best time to visit

From June to September, when lagoons are full and the sun casts a perfect contrast between white sands and blue waters.

How to get there

Main access through Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro. From São Luís, traveling 250 Km, it is possible to reach destinations by land transportation, whether by car, bus, or shuttle.

Opening hours

Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM

Entrance

Free; guided tours with 4×4 vehicles are paid and must be booked with authorized operators.

Curiosities

UNESCO NATURAL WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Created in 1981, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park gained even more recognition in 2024, receiving UNESCO Natural World Heritage status.

155 THOUSAND HECTARES

The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park covers about 155,000 hectares — enough to fit the entire city of São Paulo within its boundaries.

PARK’S NAME ORIGIN

Do you know that big, crumpled sheet thrown over the bed? Its waves and valleys perfectly describe the relief of the Lençóis Maranhenses. And it was this visual similarity that inspired the poetic name of this paradise!

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.