By Lindenberg Junior
Visitors enjoy swimming in one of Lençóis Maranhenses’ crystal-clear freshwater lagoons
When Sports Illustrated celebrated its 50th Anniversary Swimsuit Issue, the magazine dedicated 18 dazzling pages to supermodels Bregje Heinen, Natasha Barnard, Valerie Van Der Graaf, and Anne V in one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth: Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, in Northeastern Brazil. The magazine’s crew, enchanted by the scenery, even brought back locally made hammocks to recreate Brazil’s tropical lounging vibe back in the U.S. Go to You Tube to check the video made by the Sports Illustrated production team in 2014 with the models in the “Lençóis”. Soul Brasil Media also has a variety of short videos about Brazil’s main tourist attractions on Instagram and TikTok.
A Desert That Isn’t a Desert
Covering over 600 square miles (1,550 km²) in the state of Maranhão, Lençóis Maranhenses looks like a desert at first glance: rolling sand dunes that stretch endlessly into the horizon. But unlike true deserts, this region receives heavy seasonal rains between January and June. The rainwater fills natural valleys between the dunes, creating thousands of turquoise and emerald-green lagoons – true freshwater oases in the middle of the sand.Some lagoons even hold fish, whose eggs are carried in by migratory birds and survive in the sand during the dry season. The best months to visit are June through September, when the lagoons are at their fullest and the contrast of blue water and white sand is most stunning.
How to Get There
Photo Shooting in Lencois Maranhenses Brazil Featuring Top Model Natasha Barnard in 2014
Reaching this natural wonder requires some adventure. The main gateway is the small town of Barreirinhas, located about 165 miles (270 km) from São Luís, the capital of Maranhão. From Barreirinhas, visitors need a 4×4 vehicle to cross sandy trails – a trip of around three hours before arriving at the park’s heart. Even though it’s of difficult access, the visit is worth it: the scenery is nothing short of majestic, and the combination of dunes and lagoons is unlike anywhere else on the planet. Once there, don’t miss the chance to take a refreshing swim in the crystalline lagoons – one of the highlights of the experience.
Where to Stay & What to Eat
In the small town of Barreirinhas, you’ll find a good tourism infrastructure, including cozy pousadas, boutique inns, and even a resort. Local restaurants serve authentic Maranhão cuisine, such as fresh-caught fish grilled over coals, seafood stews, and tropical fruits. For travelers who want a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, the communities of Atins and Santo Amaro offer rustic charm, eco-lodges, and opportunities for kitesurfing and eco-tourism – perfect for those who want to enjoy Lençóis Maranhenses at a slower pace.
Why Visit Lençóis Maranhenses in 2025 and Beyond?
- Eco-tourism hotspot: Increasingly popular with international travelers seeking nature beyond the obvious Rio and Amazon.
- Bucket-list landscape: Unique in the world — nowhere else combines desert-like dunes with rain-fed lagoons on this scale.
- Adventure + relaxation: Ideal for both outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for tranquil hammocks by the water.
FAQ – Frequent Ask Questions
What is Lençóis Maranhenses famous for?
It’s known for its unique mix of vast white sand dunes and thousands of seasonal rain-fed lagoons, creating one of the most surreal landscapes in the world.
When is the best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses?
From June to September, when the lagoons are at their fullest after the rainy season and perfect for swimming.
Lençóis Maranhenses combines desert-like dunes with rain-fed lagoons
How do I get to Lençóis Maranhenses?
Fly into São Luís (SLZ), the capital of Maranhão. From there, take a 4-hour transfer to Barreirinhas, then continue by 4×4 vehicle into the park.
Can you swim in the lagoons?
Yes — the lagoons are freshwater, crystal-clear, and safe for swimming. It’s one of the highlights of visiting.
Where should I stay when visiting?
Most visitors stay in Barreirinhas, which offers pousadas, inns, and a resort. For a quieter and more rustic experience, Atins and Santo Amaro are excellent alternatives.
What food is typical in Barreirinhas and the region?
The local cuisine highlights fresh-caught fish grilled over coals, seafood dishes, tropical fruits, and regional specialties from Maranhão.
Is it difficult to access Lençóis Maranhenses?
Yes, the park has limited road access and requires 4×4 vehicles. But the effort is rewarded with unforgettable scenery.
* For airline tickets from the U.S to Brazil or Latin America, customized travel packages, hotels and cruises, please visit our travel agent page or contact Magali Da Silva by phone or whatsapp: 1(323) 428-1963.
