Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses), is one of the most sought-after destinations along the Rota das Emoções. It is located in the state of Maranhão and is geographically situated between three municipalities: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and Primeira Cruz. The park covers an extensive area of approximately 1,550 square kilometers of dunes, making it the largest dune field in Brazil and South America, and it features more than 36,000 lagoons.
As part of the Rota das Emoções, visitors who are already in Barra Grande – PI will need a transfer from Barra Grande to Parnaíba – PI, and from there travel via Paulino Neves – MA until reaching Barreirinhas – MA, the main gateway city to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
The park’s two most famous attractions — Lagoa Bonita Circuit and Lagoa Azul Circuit — are just a preview of the paradise that awaits inside the park. Let’s explore some other incredible attractions located within the park that you are sure to love. Let’s go!
Lagoa da Esperança:
We begin with Lagoa da Esperança, which marks the geographical boundary between the municipalities of Barreirinhas and Santo Amaro. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Barreirinhas in a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
This attraction is known for being one of the rare lagoons that remains full throughout the year. Its landscape is breathtaking, as it allows visitors to observe the interruption of the Rio Negro’s course caused by its encounter with the dune field.
Atins:
Atins is a small village located almost directly across from the mouth of the Rio Preguiças. Although it is technically outside the National Park, its close proximity makes it considered one of the park’s attractions. The village is small and has a simple infrastructure, offering visitors the chance to walk along the shoreline and enjoy nature in peace and tranquility. For those who enjoy action and adventure, Atins also offers activities such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, cycling, and surfing.
Canto dos Lençóis:
Formerly known as Canto do Atins, this area is now called Canto dos Lençóis. It is a small fishing village that offers stunning views of the park’s dune fields while also overlooking the beach.
Known for its simplicity and close connection with nature, the village has no electricity, providing a truly immersive and rustic experience.
The Mouth of the Rio Negro (Foz do Rio Negro):
The mouth of the Rio Negro is breathtaking when departing from Atins. Visitors can witness the meeting of the Rio Negro with the sea, where it is also possible to swim in small seaside waterfalls. However, to visit this attraction, it is important to go at the right time of year. Therefore, prior contact with the park administration or the hired tour company is recommended for up-to-date information.
Lagoa da Gaivota:
Lagoa da Gaivota is the main attraction in Santo Amaro and is considered one of the most beautiful spots within the park. Its name comes from its location, as the area serves as a nesting site for seagulls, allowing visitors to observe these birds in their natural habitat. In addition to Lagoa da Gaivota, visitors can also explore Lagoa da Andorinha, Lagoa do Cajueiro, and Lagoa do Maçarico. The area also offers opportunities for kitesurfing and provides scenic views of Lago do Santo Amaro, making it a well-rounded attraction with activities for all types of travelers.
How to Get There:
It is important to note that access to the park always begins with a ferry crossing of the Preguiças River in the city of Barreirinhas, which offers the easiest access for those coming from Barra Grande, Piauí. Only authorized vehicles are allowed to travel within the park.
For the attractions highlighted in this post, the assistance of a licensed tour guide or authorized local guide is mandatory. Reaching each of these sites involves long distances, requiring visitors to be prepared to cross parts of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park on foot over several days.
For further information or to request a quote, you may contact the licensed tour guide Geovane Coelho at +55 98 98786-4373 or the authorized visitor guide Matheus Henrique at +55 98 98482-1309. Enjoy your trip!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp +55 (86) 98806-0007, by email at contato@hospedagembarragrandepi.com.br, or on Instagram @hospedagembarragrandepi.
Photos: @malasdeaventura @giconnect @ecoadventure @marciovasconcelos @icmbio @viagenscine @moniquerenne
Source: https://www.icmbio.gov.br/parnalencoismaranhenses/guia-do-visitante
Text: Matheus Oliveira
Supervision: Janaina Araujo