plan your trip
The Importance of Planning
Planning a trip to a national park is essential for a smooth and enriching experience. National parks offer breathtaking natural beauty, unique ecosystems, and a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, to fully enjoy these wonders, proper planning is key. By organizing your visit ahead of time, you secure lodging and transportation, avoiding the disappointment of sold-out accommodations and long waits. Plus, planning lets you research and prioritize activities, ensuring you don't miss must-see attractions or guided tours. It also helps you prepare for different weather conditions and terrains, making sure you bring the right gear for safety and comfort. Ultimately, planning turns your trip into a well-organized adventure, allowing you to focus on the stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences that national parks have to offer.
Barreirinhas: The Gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses
Barreirinhas is one of the starting points for exploring the park. Here, you'll find a town with the infrastructure of an urban environment, including banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, and a wide variety of dining options. The nightlife is centered around Avenida Beira-Rio, which is lined with restaurants serving both Maranhão and international cuisine. This is the perfect place to enjoy live music, explore local crafts, shop, and observe the tranquil flow of the Rio Preguiças. If you only have two nights, it is recommended that you stay in the town.
From here, all kinds of tours depart, including ATV, boat, 4x4, UTV, and more. It is important to remember that to enter the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, you will need accredited guides and tours. It is not possible to enter with small cars or even your own 4x4. In summary, do not enter the park on your own.
The Beach Region: Caburé, Mandacaru, Bar da Hora, and Atins
From Barreirinhas, all kinds of tours depart, including ATV, boat, 4x4, UTV, and more. It is important to remember that to enter the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, you will need accredited guides and tours. It is not possible to enter with small cars or even your own 4x4. In summary, do not enter the park on your own.
The beach region near the mouth of the Rio Preguiças is home to several charming villages, each offering unique attractions:
Caburé: This narrow strip of land between the river and the ocean is a must-visit. It’s a perfect spot to relax, with its sandy beaches and rustic charm. Caburé is an obligatory stop for most tours.
Mandacaru: A quaint fishing village, Mandacaru is best known for the Preguiças Lighthouse. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the surrounding dunes, river, and ocean.
Bar da Hora: Known for its community-based tourism, Bar da Hora provides an authentic and tranquil experience. The hospitality of the local residents and the opportunity to explore the traditional lifestyle make it a unique destination.
Atins: Already a well-known village, Atins is famous for its beaches, great local cuisine, and kitesurfing. The prices are way higher than the other villages.
Transfers, Tours, Accommodations, and a Bit of Flexibility
Just like any national park, traveling to Lençóis Maranhenses requires planning. Last-minute organization can lead to frustration or higher expenses for transfers, tours, and accommodations. Use these six planning points and make sure to follow these steps for a smooth trip.
You’ve decided to visit Lençóis Maranhenses and Barreirinhas. Whether you’re staying a few nights in São Luís, Barreirinhas, or visiting Santo Amaro, doing some research beforehand is crucial. Check the weather and determine if it’s high or low season, as this can significantly impact your trip planning.
You should already know which documents you need to bring, including whether a visa is required if you are coming from abroad. Additionally, check if any vaccinations are needed.
You already have an initial plan and are researching what to do, how many nights to stay in each place, and what to eat. You've watched videos on YouTube, Instagram, and Vimeo to get a better idea of other travelers' experiences.
You’ve already secured accommodation, planned your route to Barreirinhas, booked your tickets, and reserved the boat transfer. Your budget for lodging and transportation is set. Make sure to finalize these details at least a month in advance, especially during the high season.
Explore the top activities and pinpoint any bucket-list items you want to check off. During the high season, book activities at least 2 days in advance. The Lençóis Maranhenses are stunning, and if time and budget allow, opt for the full-day tour. You can also experience the park in various ways, like horseback riding, ATV tours, or for the adventurous, trekking and crossing to another municipality. Planning is key!