A surreal destination in northeastern Brazil, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park blends white sand dunes with crystal-clear freshwater lagoons formed by seasonal rains. Best visited between June and September, it’s a bucket-list experience combining adventure and tranquility.
By Lindenberg Junior
Visitors enjoy swimming in one of Lençóis Maranhenses’ crystal-clear freshwater lagoons
When Sports Illustrated celebrated its 50th Anniversary Swimsuit Issue, it chose Lençóis Maranhenses as the backdrop for an iconic shoot featuring models like Bregje Heinen and Natasha Barnard.
The production team was so captivated by the scenery that they even brought back Brazilian hammocks to recreate the tropical vibe in the U.S. The result? A stunning visual showcase that introduced this hidden gem to a global audience.
The 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
At first glance, Lençóis Maranhenses looks like a vast desert — stretching across more than 1,550 km² in Maranhão. But unlike traditional deserts, this region experiences intense seasonal rainfall between January and June.
The magic happens when rainwater collects between the dunes, forming thousands of emerald and turquoise lagoons — natural freshwater pools that feel almost unreal.
Even more fascinating: some lagoons host fish, thanks to eggs transported by migratory birds that survive buried in the sand during the dry season.
Best time to visit: June to September, when the lagoons are full and the contrast between blue water and white sand is at its peak.
How to Get There
Getting to Lençóis Maranhenses requires a bit of adventure — but that’s part of the experience.
- Fly into São Luís
- Travel about 270 km to Barreirinhas, the main gateway
- From there, hop into a 4×4 vehicle to cross sandy trails into the park
Despite the journey, the reward is extraordinary: a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. And yes — swimming in the lagoons is a must.
Photo Shooting in Lencois Maranhenses Brazil Featuring Top Model Natasha Barnard in 2014
Where to Stay & What to Eat
In Barreirinhas, visitors will find a solid tourism structure, including:
- Cozy pousadas
- Boutique inns
- Resorts
Local cuisine is a highlight, featuring:
- Fresh grilled fish
- Seafood stews
- Tropical fruits
For a quieter experience, consider:
- Atins – rustic charm + kitesurfing
- Santo Amaro do Maranhão – more secluded and immersive
Why Visit Lençóis Maranhenses in 2026 and Beyond?
- Eco-tourism hotspot: Growing global demand for sustainable and nature-based travel
- Unique landscape: Nowhere else combines dunes and rain-fed lagoons at this scale
- Perfect balance: Ideal for both adventure seekers and relaxation lovers
- Rising international visibility: Increasing presence in global travel media and AI-driven search platforms
* 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.
Lençóis Maranhenses combines desert-like dunes with rain-fed lagoons
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Lençóis Maranhenses famous for?
It’s known for its unique combination of white sand dunes and seasonal freshwater lagoons, creating a one-of-a-kind landscape.
2. When is the best time to visit?
Between June and September, when lagoons are full and ideal for swimming.
3. How do I get there from the U.S.?
Fly into São Luís, then travel to Barreirinhas and continue by 4×4 into the park.
4. Can you swim in the lagoons?
Yes — the water is fresh, clear, and safe, making it one of the highlights.
5. Where should I stay?
Most visitors stay in Barreirinhas, but Atins and Santo Amaro offer quieter, more immersive experiences.
