Barreirinhas

Barreirinhas is the gateway to Brazil's otherworldly Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a vast desert of white sand dunes punctuated by seasonal rainwater lagoons. This laid-back riverside town on the Rio Preguiças offers a relaxed base for exploring one of South America's most surreal landscapes. With its dusty streets, friendly locals, and excellent seafood, Barreirinhas feels authentically Brazilian, far from the crowds of Rio or São Paulo. Plan to spend a few days here to truly soak in the natural wonders.

Highlights & What to See

• Lençóis Maranhenses National Park – The main event: a 1,550 km² expanse of dazzling white dunes and crystal-clear lagoons (July–September is prime time). Take a 4WD tour or a guided hike to Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita for swimming in surreal, turquoise waters.
• Rio Preguiças boat tour – A half-day trip down the river to see mangroves, sandbanks, and the coastal village of Atins, where dunes meet the Atlantic. Spot river dolphins and stop for fresh coconut water.
• Little Sahara sandboarding – Just outside town, there are smaller dunes where you can rent a board and slide down the slopes – a fun, low-key adventure.
• Barreirinhas town itself – Stroll the main square, visit the small handicraft market, and try local dishes like arroz de cuxá (rice with dried shrimp and native herbs) at a riverside restaurant.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least three full days to experience Barreirinhas properly. Day one: arrive and settle in, then take an afternoon sandboarding trip. Day two: a full-day 4WD tour of Lençóis Maranhenses (start early to avoid heat). Day three: a morning boat trip on the Rio Preguiças, then depart. If you have more time, add a day to visit the remote village of Atins or take a flight over the dunes for a bird's-eye view.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Atins – A sleepy beach village at the mouth of the Rio Preguiças, with rustic pousadas and kite-surfing potential. Accessible by boat (2 hours) or 4WD via the dunes.
• São Luís – The colonial capital of Maranhão, known for its azulejo-tiled architecture and vibrant reggae scene. A 4-hour drive or bus ride from Barreirinhas.
• Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (eastern sector) – The less-visited side, with access from the village of Santo Amaro do Maranhão, offering a more remote experience.
• Jericoacoara – Further east in Ceará, this wind-swept beach town is a 6-hour drive via the coast, combining dunes, lagoons, and excellent seafood.

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