Audio Guide of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

The National Park is open 24 hours a day, but access to the dunes is restricted to accredited 4x4 vehicles to protect the ecosystem. Tours usually depart from Barreirinhas or Santo Amaro in the morning (around 9:00 AM) or in the afternoon (2:00 PM) to enjoy the sunset.

There is currently no official entrance fee for walking access to the National Park, but it is essential to book a tour or authorized guide with 4x4 transport to reach the lagoons. Tour prices vary by agency, generally ranging from 100 to 150 reais per person.

For a complete experience without rushing, a stay of 3 to 4 days in the region is recommended. This will allow you to visit the main circuits such as Blue Lagoon and Beautiful Lagoon, and perhaps make a trip to the village of Atins or Santo Amaro.

This is the only desert in the world with thousands of crystal-clear freshwater lagoons, formed by rainwater collecting between white sand dunes. It is a rare geological phenomenon covering 155,000 hectares and represents a vital ecosystem protected by ICMBio.

The ideal time to visit is between June and September, just after the rainy season, when the lagoons are at their fullest and display their turquoise-blue color. If you visit from October to December, you are likely to find many lagoons dried up due to the sun and wind.

Due to the nature of the terrain (soft sand and steep dunes), accessibility is very limited and difficult for conventional wheelchairs. However, it is recommended to contact local agencies in Barreirinhas, as some offer special logistics to bring visitors as close as possible to the lower lagoons.

In addition to the dunes, the speedboat tour along the Preguiças River is highly recommended. You can visit Vassouras (famous for its monkeys), the Mandacaru Lighthouse for panoramic views, and Caburé Beach, where the river meets the sea.

It is essential to bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water, as there is no shade on the dunes. It is recommended to go barefoot or wear sandals that are easy to remove, and to already be wearing your swimsuit; for more details, you can visit the tourism website of Maranhão.