Tag: lençóis maranhenses

Seasons, locations, safety tips, and health precautions. See our recommendations for an unforgettable travel experience in Brazil’s Lençóis Maranhenses National Park!

Located in northeast Brazil, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a destination sought after by adventurers from all over the planet. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wonder is famous for its vast, giant white sand dunes and crystal-clear freshwater lagoons. 

But don’t let its otherworldly beauty fool you—exploring this fantastic place requires thoughtful planning to make the most of your time, energy, and budget. Considering elements like location, weather, and activities, following some Lençóis Maranhenses travel tips can help to make your vacation even more memorable.

That’s why PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specialized in Lençóis Maranhenses tours, has put together 10 essential recommendations for a wonderful experience in one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. Check them out below!

1. Pick your base city: Barreirinhas, Atins, or Santo Amaro

The choice of base cities can shape your entire experience, so analyzing the options and choosing the one that makes the most sense for your travel style is the first tip to thoroughly enjoy Lençóis Maranhenses.

Barreirinhas is the most popular hub, with solid infrastructure and easy access. Atins is a peaceful fishing village, harder to reach, but offering rustic charm and great conditions for kitesurfers. Meanwhile, Santo Amaro has the closest access to the national park and beautiful lagoons, but restaurants, bars, and other services are rather scarce.

Besides considering the different atmospheres and logistics of each base, it’s also possible to combine more than one city throughout a single trip. This way, you can experience each side of Lençóis!

👉 Read more: How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses?

2. Time it right: when the lagoons are at their best

The weather is ideal for those looking to explore ecotourism in Brazil. The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is between May and September, when the lagoons are full from seasonal rains and the sky is usually clear with no rain. This window offers the most spectacular views and the best overall conditions for hiking and swimming.

From February to April, the heavy rainfall might disrupt travel plans, while the period between November and January causes the lagoons to shrink or disappear completely.

Lençóis offers great experiences all year round, but the itineraries vary according to the seasons. Make sure to check the weather forecast and plan your trip according to your preferences!

3. Health tips: vaccination and fighting the heat

Foreign tourists are not required to get vaccinated, but Brazil’s Ministry of Health recommends that visitors from other countries be protected against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and measles. 

Additionally, as a precaution, it is advisable to get vaccinated against yellow fever and hepatitis A and B—even though there is no imminent risk of these diseases within national territory.

The heat is also something to consider, as Lençóis Maranhenses is located in one of the hottest regions in the entire country. To protect yourself against the intense sun and high temperatures, always apply sunscreen, wear a cap/hat when exploring the sand dunes, and stay well-hydrated at all times.

👉 See more information: CDC Travelers’ Health (USA) / Vaccine for Travelers (Brazil)

4. Trust the locals

One of the best Lençóis Maranhenses travel tips is to trust the locals for a truly immersive, fulfilling experience.

Lençóis is a protected area with no marked trails. As the dunes stretch endlessly, it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. Tour guides know the safest and most scenic routes, how to avoid getting lost, and can tailor your experience to your interests. Remember: never venture into the national park without a qualified professional.

Local residents also play an important role in the stay experience, as many travelers making the dune crossing, which can last several days, spend the night in the homes of locals within the park.

The accommodations are simple, yet clean and comfortable—ideal for resting a weary body after a long day of trekking. This is also a wonderful way to meet new people and connect with Brazilian and Maranhense culture.

👉 Read more: Where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses?

5. Lençóis Maranhenses treks are demanding (be prepared!)

Expect a workout. The sand is uneven and the dunes are tall, so the ground slips out from under your feet as you walk. 

Under the hot sun, physical exertion becomes even greater. To avoid stressful situations, exhaustion, and other health issues, dress in light, airy clothes, drink plenty of water, and don’t rush. And while most people enjoy walking barefoot, hiking sandals work just fine!

All this effort and dedication are worth it: you will be rewarded with landscapes that seem out of this world and indescribable experiences to carry with you for the rest of your life!

6. Pack smart

Pack smart, light, and functional. Comfortable, appropriate items for physical activities and warm weather are indispensable:

• Swimwear
• UV-resistant clothing
• T-shirts
• Shorts
• Flip-flops
• Sandals or light hiking shoes
• Socks
• Hats or caps
• Towels
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle (at least 1.5L)
• Eco-friendly sunscreen (non-toxic to aquatic life; SPF 30 or higher)

And, as with any other trip, don’t forget the essentials: documents, insect repellent, medication, a power bank, and chargers (phones, cameras, laptops, and tablets). 

Bring your own cash (Brazilian real), as ATMs are scarce (especially in Atins and Santo Amaro), and connectivity for debit/credit cards is limited.

7. Don’t underestimate transfer times

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is located in a remote area. From the capital of Maranhão, São Luís, to the base cities, the drive takes between 4 and 5 hours.

When planning your vacation, map out the round-trip transfer to ensure you enjoy every single second and to avoid any problems with your schedules—like missing a flight, for example.

Your trip should last at least 3 days, but it obviously depends on your availability and the type of experiences you’re looking for.

8. Go for multi-day treks

Speaking of how many days should you spend in Lençóis Maranhenses, if you’re up for a real adventure, consider trekking across the dunes from one village to another.

This is a more intense experience than the day tours, but far more rewarding. You’ll hike through remote parts of Lençóis Maranhenses that most visitors never see, sleep in locals’ homes or campsites, and enjoy simple, home-cooked meals.

In the afternoons, after the hikes, you’ll have a few quiet hours to relax and recharge. It’s the perfect moment to disconnect, take a nap, or simply admire the breathtaking beauty that surrounds you.

9. Bring your own snacks and drinks on the tours

Lençóis tours typically only stop during lunchtime, and there are no restaurants or diners inside the national park. If you plan to spend several hours (or even days) in Lençóis Maranhenses, it’s important to bring your own food and water.

Opt for light, non-perishable snacks such as crackers, nuts, protein/fruit bars, etc. Use reusable containers and keep the packaging in your backpack to dispose of it once you return to the city. Never litter in the dunes or lagoons.

10. Download Google Translate for offline use

Don’t expect English everywhere; most locals only speak Portuguese.

Downloading Google Translate (or other translation apps) before arriving and setting up the Portuguese language pack for offline use is highly recommended. This will help with everything you might need, from ordering food to asking for directions.

Take the opportunity to learn a few basic words in Portuguese, like “bom dia” (good morning) and “obrigado” (thank you). Small gestures like these show kindness, openness, and appreciation for the people and the place you’re visiting!

Visit Lençóis Maranhenses with PlanetaEXO

Now that you know 10 essential travel tips for Lençóis Maranhenses visitors should follow, it’s time to start planning your trip!

PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in Lençóis Maranhenses tours, works with the best local partners to turn your dream vacation into reality. Our team is ready to help you with bookings, transfer options, and tailor-made itineraries for a fantastic experience. Contact us now! 

Wind and rain play a fundamental role in the formation of the dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a natural wonder where sand dunes and lagoons are formed by a fascinating combination of wind and rain, which creates a unique landscape found nowhere else in the world.

Considering the changing scenery according to season, it’s common to wonder how Lençóis Maranhenses was formed. Around two-thirds of the park are covered in flowing sand dunes that, from above, resemble bedsheets—hence the name in Portuguese, “Lençóis.” The beauty and rarity of the coexistence between a vast field of sand and thousands of lagoons earned the park UNESCO World Heritage status in 2024.

Want to find out how this phenomenon occurs? Check out the complete guide created by PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in Lençóis Maranhenses tours.

How are the dunes formed in Lençóis Maranhenses?

Lençóis’ dunes are the result of aeolian erosion, a natural process where the wind shapes the Earth’s surface by removing, transporting, and abrading soil and rock particles—particularly in arid, coastal, or sparse-vegetation environments.

Powerful coastal winds from the Atlantic Ocean blow fine sand particles inland, where the region’s topography traps and accumulates them. Over time, this sand builds up into massive sandy hills that can reach up to 40 meters in height. Shaped by the constant movement of the wind, these dunes take on smooth, crescent-like forms and are in a state of perpetual motion, giving the landscape a dynamic and ever-changing character.

Researchers believe that 10,000 years ago, the national park area was covered by the sea. As the ocean gradually receded, it first gave way to mangrove forests and eventually transformed into the vast dune fields we see today.

A significant portion of the sand in the park was brought by the Parnaíba River, which carries sediment towards the sea, while ocean currents push it back toward the shore. This ongoing interaction between river flow, tides, and ocean currents allowed the sand to accumulate, forming the unique ecosystem of Lençóis Maranhenses.

Far from being static, the dunes are in constant motion. As the wind reshapes them regularly, they perform what locals poetically call the “dance of the dunes.” This phenomenon is especially visible during the dry season (July to December), when stronger winds and lower water levels in the lagoons make the movement even more noticeable.

Active and inactive dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil

In Lençóis Maranhenses, not all dunes behave the same way. The presence or absence of vegetation is what determines whether a dune is active or inactive.

Some dunes are considered inactive, meaning they stay in place thanks to the surrounding vegetation. The native plants help to settle the sand, forming a natural cover that prevents the wind from moving the dune, making it more stable and fixed in place.

On the other hand, active dunes are in constant movement due to the force of the wind, rainfall, and the absence of nearby vegetation, allowing the sand to “dance.”

Can the dunes disappear?

Researchers believe that the complete disappearance of Lençóis’ dunes is unlikely. However, some factors could significantly alter their formation and have serious environmental and social consequences.

One of the main concerns is the unplanned installation of wind farms, as these structures can alter the wind patterns and directly affect the arrangement of the dunes. In addition, climate change plays a fundamental role, as it can change the behavior of rainfall and wind.

👉 Read more: How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses?

How are the lagoons formed in Lençóis Maranhenses?

The beautiful, crystal-clear lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses are formed by the significant amount of rainfall the region receives, reaching 2,000 millimeters a year, mainly between January and June.

During the rainy season, the rain is quickly absorbed by the sand, which raises the water table above the ground and fills the temporary lagoons that lie between the dunes.

But the true secret behind the formation and maintenance of the lagoons is attributed to the mixture of sand and clay found in the soil. Over time, this combination has developed characteristics similar to a sponge-like rock, allowing water to seep out slowly—thus prolonging the lifespan of the lagoons.

Rainwater accumulates in the low areas between the dunes, forming thousands of crystalline pools that can reach depths of around one meter. Beloved lagoons such as Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita offer a breathtaking view of this unique phenomenon, while the humidity in the air also prevents the dunes from shifting.

Can the lagoons dry up?

Brazil’s rainwater lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park begin to shrink between October and January. As the rain stops and the sun prevails, the water in the smaller lagoons evaporates completely, while the larger, deeper ones can retain it for longer.

This seasonal change not only alters the visual landscape but also affects the climate. During the end of the second semester, the strongest winds return, causing the dunes to grow and move more quickly.

While it would be fun for the lagoons to be full all year round, it’s essential for the ecosystem that they dry out periodically. Continuous water accumulation, combined with local vegetation and organic matter, would otherwise lead to excessive algae growth, making the water slimy and the lagoons unsuitable for swimming.

👉 Read more: 10 Facts About the Lençóis Maranhenses

Weather and seasonality: best time to visit the dunes and lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses

The best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses is from May to September, when the rainy season has just ended and the lagoons are at their peak.

The weather during this period is sunny, free of rain, and marked by pleasant temperatures, perfect for hiking across the park and taking a refreshing dip in the lagoons.

Although the beginning of the dry season is considered the ideal time for visiting, each month offers a different kind of beauty. Whether it’s the vibrant lagoons of the rainy season or the giant dune formations of the dry period, Lençóis never ceases to amaze.

👉 Read more: When is the best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses?

Visiting Lençóis Maranhenses’ dunes and lagoons with PlanetaEXO

Now that you know how Lençóis Maranhenses was formed, it’s time to see its surreal beauty up close!

PlanetaEXO is an ecotourism platform specializing in Lençóis Maranhenses tours. Working alongside the best local operators, our team helps you with hassle-free vacation planning, from bookings to tailor-made experiences. Contact us now!

One of the most beautiful destinations in Brazil is also one of the most interesting. Discover amazing facts that will make you fall in love with Lençóis Maranhenses National Park!

Spanning 1,550 km² (155,000 hectares), Brazil’s Lençóis Maranhenses is a protected area in the northeastern state of Maranhão that features a surreal mix of white sand dunes, seasonal freshwater lagoons, mangroves, and remote fishing villages.

At first glance, it looks like a typical desert, but here’s your first fact about Lençóis Maranhenses National Park: its almost supernatural beauty holds secrets that reveal the complexity of nature and the exclusivity of phenomena that occur in the sand dunes of Brazil—and nowhere else in the world.

Curious to learn more? PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in Lençóis Maranhenses tours, has put together 10 facts about this fascinating destination. Check them out below!

1. It’s not actually a desert

Brazil doesn’t have deserts like the Sahara, but it does have Lençóis Maranhenses, a desert-like area formed by vast sand dunes, high biodiversity, and almost 2,000 mm of annual rain—more than entire cities like London and Berlin.

As a wet desert, Lençóis’ intricate environment involves meteorological and geological factors that have been occurring for thousands of years.

👉 Read more: How Are the Dunes and Lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses Formed?

2. Timing is everything when you visit Lençóis Maranhenses

One of the key facts about Lencois Maranhenses National Park is that the landscape changes dramatically with the seasons.

From February to April, the rains fill the dunes with freshwater lagoons. Between May and September, they’re at their peak, perfect for swimming and photography. By September, many begin to dry up, revealing a significantly more arid terrain.

No matter the month, traveling to Lençóis is worth your while. Each season offers a different way to experience this jaw-dropping destination, from lagoon-filled hikes to dune crossings under wide, open skies.

👉 Read more: When is the best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses?

3. The dunes can reach up to 40 meters high

If you’re wondering just how massive Brazil’s sand dunes can get, Lençóis Maranhenses will surprise you.

Some dunes rise up to 40 meters, the equivalent of a 10-story building. Walking across them feels like stepping into another world. The sand is fine, pale, and soft underfoot, while each step reveals sweeping views of blue and green lagoons nestled in the valleys below.

It’s physically demanding but visually rewarding, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the light paints the dunes in golden hues.

4. Some lagoons have fish

Did you know there’s fish in Lençóis Maranhenses? According to scientific studies, some of the 36,000 lagoons across the national park are inhabited by wolf fish. During the dry season, they bury themselves in the mud and enter a state of dormancy that only ends when it starts to rain once again.

This natural adaptation demonstrates how the dunes are extremely rich in terms of biodiversity, proving that resilience is an intrinsic part of environments driven by the complexity of nature.

5. Access points

There are three main gateways to Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil: Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and Atins.

Barreirinhas is the most developed, offering daily tours, river transport, and great infrastructure. Santo Amaro is quieter, with easier access to some of the most stunning lagoons, perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowds. Atins is remote and laid-back, popular with backpackers and kite surfers.

Each base city offers a different way to explore this unique region, whether you’re seeking convenience, immersion, or solitude.

👉 Read more: How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses?

6. Hollywood famous

While Lençóis Maranhenses is not as famous as the Amazon Rainforest or the Pantanal, it’s not an unknown destination. In fact, it’s Hollywood famous.

The park’s surreal landscape of white sand and rain-filled lagoons was featured in Avengers: Infinity War, representing Vormir, the fictional planet where the powerful Soul Stone is hidden. The scenes were shot in Atins, one of the base cities of Lençóis.

7. The area has been inhabited for centuries

While it might look untouched, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park has a long human history. Villages like Queimada dos Britos and Baixa Grande, located deep within the dunes, have been inhabited for generations.

The families there live in harmony with the environment, depending on small-scale agriculture, fishing, and, in recent years, sustainable tourism. Their presence adds cultural depth to the region, showing that Brazil’s sand dunes are not just a pretty background but a living, breathing community space.

8. Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site

In 2024, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park received one of the highest recognitions on the planet: it was officially declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This status highlights not only its surreal beauty but also its ecological importance and the need for long-term preservation. With its rare combination of vast white dunes, seasonal rainwater lagoons, mangroves, and traditional communities, the park stands out as a global landmark of nature and culture.

9. Not just sightseeing: plenty of adventure

Although they possess a stunning beauty, the Lençóis Maranhenses in Brazil are not merely a backdrop for contemplation and photos worthy of spotlight on social media.

As an ecotourism destination, the national park offers many adventures beyond swimming in the lagoons, such as multi-day treks—which also include overnight stays in the homes of local residents—4×4 expeditions, boiacross or boat tours on the Preguiças River, and kitesurfing at Atins Beach.

10. You’ll probably lose your sense of direction

Among the most surprising facts about Lencois Maranhenses is how easy it is to lose your bearings once you’re deep inside the park. The landscape repeats itself in every direction, endless hills of white sand with no roads, signs, or clear landmarks. 

That’s why guided tours are highly recommended—not only for safety but also to ensure visitors actually reach the lagoons and remote villages. Venturing into the park without a professional guide is not advisable.

Getting a bit disoriented, however, is part of the charm. Many travelers say that’s when the magic begins, when you stop trying to control the journey and let the scenery take over.

Delve into Lençóis Maranhenses National Park with PlanetaEXO

Ready to be enchanted by the paradisiacal landscapes of Lençóis Maranhenses in Brazil?

PlanetaEXO is an ecotourism platform that specializes in Lençóis Maranhenses tours. When you travel with us, we connect you with the best local operators to ensure an unforgettable vacation. From bookings to tailor-made itineraries, our team is always ready to help. Contact us now!

Discover accommodation options in Lençóis Maranhenses, from homestays to hotels in Barreirinhas, Santo Amaro, and Atins

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a natural marvel. In a massive area covered by impressively white sand dunes, blue rainwater lagoons, and untouched vegetation, it’s not uncommon for people to describe it as an otherworldly place. 

Mirroring the general atmosphere of the national park, accommodation options are characterized by a peaceful and considerably rustic nature. Whether in small inns, hotels offering premium services, or homestays with local residents, the choices for where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses are all marked by the placid, lovely charm of the dunes.

PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in Lençóis Maranhenses tours, has helped countless travelers from all over the world to book the best accommodations in this fantastic destination. Read more below!

Accommodation in the sand dunes

One of the most authentic ways to experience Lençóis Maranhenses is to traverse it on foot. The trek takes several days, allowing travelers to discover the more secluded parts of the dunes and visit less-crowded lagoons.

On an adventure like this, visitors spend the night inside the national park. Residents of small villages, such as Queimada dos Britos and Baixa Grande, welcome guests into their own homes, offering both shelter and food.

The accommodations are simple, yet cozy and clean. After an intense but rewarding day of trekking through one of Brazil’s most beautiful landscapes, you can rest in hammocks, take a shower, and recharge with a hot meal.

Beyond just providing a place to stay, this is also a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, immerse yourself in the local culture of Lençóis, and experience famous Brazilian hospitality firsthand.

Where to stay in Barreirinhas?

Out of all the base cities, Barreirinhas is the main gateway for the national park. With the best infrastructure of the area and a more lively vibe, most hotels in Lençóis Maranhenses are located here.

This is the perfect place for travelers looking for balance between nature and convenience due to the easy access to the sand dunes and the various transportation options, as well as restaurants, bars, markets, pharmacies, ATMs, etc.

👉 Read more: How to get to Lençóis Maranhenses?

Porto Preguiças Resort 

One of the only resorts in Lençóis Maranhenses, Porto Preguiças is a high-end resort with a privileged view of the Preguiças River, one of Maranhão’s main rivers. Great for families with children, the air-conditioned rooms have excellent beds, cable TV, a mini fridge, and private bathrooms.

Amenities include swimming pools, a garden, a restaurant, a bar, a breakfast buffet, free parking, room service, and airport transfer.

• Address: Estrada do Canaubal, s/n – Carnalbau
• Price range: $$$$$

Gran Lençóis Flat

Also situated on the banks of the Preguiças River, Gran Lençóis Flat is a 4-star hotel recommended for every type of traveler. In the common areas, guests can enjoy a swimming pool, sauna, spa, gym, entertainment room, conference room, and playroom (for children). The restaurant serves typical Brazilian food and international dishes.

The apartments include single or double beds, TV, air-conditioning, fresh towels, free amenities, and Wi-Fi. 

• Address: Estrada de São Domingos, s/n – Povoado Boa Vista
• Price range: $$$$

Portal do Sol Lençóis Pousada

A bit simpler than the previous hotels, Portal do Sol Lençóis Pousada still offers a great stay experience, ideal for guests looking for cost efficiency. Rest in spacious rooms with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, TVs, private bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi connection.

Take a swim in the pool to cool off and enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet with a beautiful view of the inn’s lake. 

• Address: Rua Principal – Av. Boa Vista, 01
• Price range: $$$

Pousada Boa Vista

4 km away from downtown Barreirinhas, Boa Vista is a charming inn that will make you feel right at home. Apartments include queen-size beds, air-conditioning, TVs, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. 

In the social areas, take a relaxing walk in the garden, swim in the pool, or rest on a hammock. At mealtimes, the talented team of cooks serves incredible local dishes at the restaurant. 

• Address: Rua Principal – Av. Boa Vista, s/n
• Price range: $$$

Pousada D’Areia

Wondering where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses on a lower budget? Pousada D’Areia, located on the main street of Barreirinhas, might be the right place for you!

With easy access to the dunes and the Preguiças River, recharge your energy in lovely air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. Includes an amazing all-you-can-eat breakfast made with local, fresh ingredients.

• Address: Av. Joaquim Soeiro de Carvalho, 888 – Centro
• Price range: $$

Pousada Sítio Parque dos Lençóis

The apartments in Pousada Sítio Parque dos Lençóis are equipped with comfy beds, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private balconies and bathrooms.

Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, a gorgeous garden, a shared lounge, and a breakfast buffet every morning.

• Address: Rua Boa Vista, 600 – Bairro da Cebola
• Price range: $$

Where to stay in Santo Amaro?

Santo Amaro is the town with the quickest access to the national park, distinguished by having some of the largest and most beautiful lagoons.

Small and peaceful, it offers less infrastructure than Barreirinhas yet provides excellent immersive experiences and a variety of inns and hotels in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

Quintal das Areias

Quintal das Areias is a highly rated accommodation in Santo Amaro, famous for its gorgeous decor—carefully thought out to represent Maranhão’s essence.

Each chalet includes air-conditioning, queen or king-size beds, a bathroom with premium amenities, a private closet, Wi-Fi, and a beautiful view of the garden. Can’t wait to taste Brazil’s typical flavors? Grab a bite at the restaurant or have a drink at the bar! 

• Address: Rua do Mandacaru, s/n
• Price range: $$$$

Ciamat Camp

This camping-style accommodation is perfect for people who want closer contact with nature without giving up comfort. Surrounded by a lake and lush vegetation, Ciamat Camp offers special facilities for water sports, a beautiful garden, a private beach area, and activities like fishing and canoeing.

Every air-conditioned room is equipped with double or single beds, private bathrooms, and rustic decor. In the morning, fill your belly with an incredible breakfast (including vegetarian and Italian menus).

• Address: Rua Sempre Virgem, 13
• Price range: $$$$$

OIÁ Casa Lençóis

Blending design, comfort, originality, and a sophisticated simplicity, OIÁ Casa Lençóis features spacious accommodations—from house suites to bungalows—equipped with king-size beds, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and exclusive amenities.

The hotel also offers privileged access to the most beautiful lagoons, elegant decor, haute cuisine, and a lovely rural atmosphere.

• Address: R. Boca da Ilha, s/n – Rural

Price range: $$$$$

Vila do Junco

Vila do Junco provides a nature-immersive stay experience due to its location amidst green vegetation, well-kept gardens, and rustic, wooden facilities. The rooms are beautiful bungalows with spacious beds, private bathrooms, closets, and ceiling fans or air conditioning.

After a long day in Lençóis Maranhenses, relax on the deck by the pool, take a nap on a hammock, and eat delicious Brazilian or Italian food (also with vegetarian, vegan, and lactose-free options). 

• Address: Rua do Mandacaru, s/n
• Price range: $$$$

Pousada Cajueiro

Modest but authentic and offering excellent services, Pousada Cajueiro is particularly recommended for couples.

In each room, enjoy double beds, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast included (buffet or continental). 

• Address: Rua Oswaldo Cruz, s/n
• Price range: $$$

Vila Capininga Ecopousada 

It’s not unusual to find Vila Capininga Ecopousada fully booked due to the beauty of its facilities, high-quality services, and fair prices.

Enjoy air-conditioned rooms, double or queen-size beds, work desks, free amenities, private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, internet connection, hammocks, charming social areas, and delicious homemade food. 

• Address: Vila Povoado Arredores – Rua da Fazenda, 01 – Malhadinha
• Price range: $$$

Pousada Giro das Dunas 

Giro das Dunas is a cozy inn over 500 meters away from downtown Santo Amaro. The apartments include single or double beds, TVs, private bathrooms, and balconies with a lovely view of the pool.

It also includes a sun deck, a shared lounge, a garden, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and car rental service.

• Address: Rua das Flores, 143
• Price range: $$

Where to stay in Atins?

With a population of only 1,500 inhabitants, Atins is a small village located in a fairly isolated share of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, in Barreirinhas, by the mouth of the Preguiças River and the Atlantic Ocean. Aside from the lagoons, Atins Beach is also a fantastic spot to visit—especially for kitesurfers.

The only way to get to Atins is by four-wheel drive or boat, but the picturesque charm, the kind-hearted people, and the jaw-dropping landscapes are worth the effort. 

👉 Read more: When is the best time to visit Lençóis Maranhenses?

La Ferme De Georges

Where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses when you’re looking for a 5-star accommodation with beautiful facilities and exclusive services? La Ferme De Georges is a luxury inn based on high-end experiences and sustainable practices.

Built with eco-friendly materials, the chalets are spacious and elegant, all of them featuring  comfortable beds, air conditioning, mini fridges, private bathrooms, and premium amenities.

In the common areas, guests can relax and have fun in the swimming pool, sun deck, volleyball court, entertainment lounge, or bar. Specialized in Brazilian food, the restaurant uses fresh ingredients harvested in La Ferme de George’s own farm.

• Address: Rua Principal, s/n – Atins
• Price range: $$$$$

Muita Paz

Rated by previous guests as an excellent resort, Muita Paz is located by the sea on a private beach and surrounded by hundreds of coconut trees.

The ocean view chalets are beautifully decorated and equipped with king or queen-size beds, air-conditioning or ceiling fans, work desks, mini fridges, and private bathrooms. 

A wonderful fine dining restaurant, spa, kitesurfing lessons, and exclusive activities in Lençóis Maranhenses guarantee an unforgettable stay. 

• Address: Rua Principal, s/n – Atins
• Price range: $$$$$

Anacardier Privé Hotel

Anacardier is an adult-only hotel with luxury suites and bungalows, a swimming pool, a well-kept garden, a fine dining restaurant, and an open-air terrace facing a beautiful view of the national park.

The sophisticated accommodations are perfectly balanced with the bucolic charm of Lençóis, creating an experience of pure relaxation and connection with the dunes.

• Address: Rua Principal, s/n – Atins

Price range: $$$$$

Vila Aty Lodge

Great for families and couples, Vila Aty Lodge is a six-minute walk away from Atins Beach. Common areas include a swimming pool, a garden, a vegetable garden, an entertainment area for children, a bar, and a restaurant.

The air-conditioned suites have single and double beds, TVs, toiletries, closets, and bathrooms. Some units also feature private balconies. 

• Address: Rua Principal, s/n – Atins
• Price range: $$$

Charme Atins

Seven minutes away from Praia do Atins, this beautiful accommodation offers chalets for families and suites for couples. All of them are equipped with comfy beds, TVs, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms.

Charme Atins is known in the area for its great activities, such as sunset contemplation in privileged locations and breakfast or lunch right in the dunes.

• Address: Rua Alegria, s/n – Atins
• Price range: $$$

Rancharia Charme Atins

Three minutes away from Atins Beach and right at the village’s main street, Rancharia Charme Beach is as charming as its name suggests.

Besides the great rooms ideal for families and couples, some of this accommodation’s highlights include beautiful natural views, a swimming pool, a beach tennis court, and a sushi bar. 

• Address: Rua Principal, s/n – Atins
• Price range: $$

Pousada Jurará

Respectively 200 and 400 meters away from Atins Beach and Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Pousada Jurará offers apartments with double or single beds, air-conditioning, mini fridges, toiletries, and private bathrooms.

It also includes a restaurant, a bar, a breakfast buffet, kite surfing lessons, and free Wi-Fi.

• Address: Rua Principal, s/n – Atins
• Price range: $$

Visiting Lençóis Maranhenses with PlanetaEXO

Now that you know where to stay in Lençóis Maranhenses, shall we start planning your vacation?

PlanetaEXO, an ecotourism platform specializing in Lençóis Maranhenses tours, takes care of everything for you—from bookings to transfers and tailor-made itineraries. When you travel with us, all you have to do is enjoy the moment. Contact us now!