Audio Guide of Barreirinhas

The park is open year-round from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but visiting during the dry season is recommended. From Barreirinhas, the main access point, you can join 4x4 tours that depart daily; book in advance through local agencies or the official ICMBio website for updated information. For more details, visit ICMBio.

Admission to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is free, with no charge for pedestrian access. However, 4x4 tours from Barreirinhas usually cost between 50 and 100 Brazilian reais per person, depending on the route; this includes transportation and guides for a safe experience.

It is recommended to set aside at least one full day for a basic tour of the dunes and lagoons, but for a complete experience, plan 2–3 days including hikes and visits to different circuits. This allows you to enjoy the area at a relaxed pace and capture the best sunset photos.

Lençóis Maranhenses is a national park created in 1981 to protect its unique ecosystem of dunes and lagoons, recognized for its surreal beauty as a World Natural Heritage treasure. Culturally, it reflects the diversity of northeastern Brazil, with influences from local communities such as the cowboys, and it promotes environmental conservation in Maranhão.

The best period is from June to September, when the rains have filled the lagoons, turning the dunes into a magical landscape; avoid the dry season from November to May because of the lack of water. During the day, early morning or sunset offers ideal light for photos and cooler temperatures.

The main access is by 4x4 vehicles, but walking on the dunes can be challenging for people with reduced mobility; there are no paved trails or specific facilities throughout the park. I recommend choosing adapted tours or short circuits; check with operators in Barreirinhas for personalized options, such as those offered by ICMBio on their website.

Near Barreirinhas, you can visit the Preguiças River for a raft ride with views of mangroves and beaches, or the village of Atins for more unspoiled beaches. You can also explore the lighthouse of Paulino Neves or the village of Caburé; for planning, check Maranhão Tourism.

Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and comfortable shoes for the sand, as the sun is intense; book tours in advance, especially during high season. Join local guides to learn about the ecosystem and respect the park rules, such as not leaving trash behind; contact ICMBio by phone at +55 98 3349-1110 for updates.