Sand, wind and turquoise colors

Lençois Maranhenses & Brazilian North Beaches (BRA)

The magical Lencois Maranhenses and the Brazilian warm beaches.

Lençóis Maranhenses is a stunning natural wonder located in the Brazilian state of Maranhão in the northeastern region of Brazil. It is known for its otherworldly landscapes of sand dunes and freshwater lagoons, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking unique natural beauty.


In addition to Lençóis Maranhenses, the northern coast of Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches, many of which are pristine and relatively untouched.
Some popular beach destinations in the northern region include Jericoacoara in the state of Ceará and Praia da Pipa in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. These beaches are known for their natural beauty, clear waters, and opportunities for water sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling.

Lencóis Maranhenses National Park (BRA)

Lencois Maranhenses North Brazilian Beaches

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a protected area established in 1981 to conserve the unique dune and lagoon ecosystem of the region.

The park covers an area of approximately 1,550 square kilometers (about 600 square miles) and is characterized by its vast expanses of white sand dunes and crystal-clear, rainwater-filled lagoons.

The park’s distinctive landscape is formed during the rainy season when the dunes fill with water, creating a series of stunning lagoons. This phenomenon occurs from approximately June to September.

Lençóis Maranhenses is located along the northern coast of Brazil, bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It is part of the larger Maranhão desert region.

The region has a tropical climate, with a wet season (rainy season) from January to June and a dry season from July to December.

During the rainy season, the park’s lagoons are at their fullest, creating a surreal landscape of water and sand.

Tourism is a significant industry in Lençóis Maranhenses, with visitors coming to explore the unique natural beauty of the park.

Popular activities include dune trekking, sandboarding, swimming in the lagoons, and taking in breathtaking sunsets from the dunes.

What to visit?

Sao Luis


São Luís is the capital city of the state of Maranhão, and it is located relatively close to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. The park, with its stunning sand dunes and freshwater lagoons, is approximately a 4-5 hour drive from São Luís, making the city a convenient starting point for those wishing to explore the park.
It is known for its unique blend of Portuguese colonial architecture, African influence, and rich cultural heritage. São Luís is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. The historic center of the city, known as the “Historic Centre of São Luís,” is particularly noteworthy for its colorful tiles, narrow streets, and well-preserved buildings.
The city has a rich cultural heritage influenced by African, Indigenous, and European cultures. This is reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine.
São Luís is known for its vibrant cultural festivals. The most famous is the Bumba Meu Boi festival, a celebration of folklore and music that takes place every June. It features parades, music, dance, and elaborate costumes. Another popular festival is the Tambor de Crioula, a traditional Afro-Brazilian dance and music festival.
São Luís is located on an island, and it is surrounded by beautiful beaches, dunes, and mangroves. These natural attractions make it a popular destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
São Luís offers a unique and culturally rich experience for travelers interested in history, architecture, and vibrant festivals, as well as those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding region.

Barrerinhas


Barreirinhas is a small town located in the state of Maranhão in northeastern Brazil. It is known as the primary gateway and tourist hub for visitors exploring the nearby Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
Barreirinhas is situated on the Preguiças River, approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) from São Luís, the capital of Maranhão. It is the closest town to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, making it the starting point for most tourists’ visits to the park. Most tours to the national park originate from Barreirinhas. These tours typically involve taking 4×4 vehicles to the park’s entrance, where visitors can explore the stunning sand dunes, lagoons, and natural beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses.
Barreirinhas is located on the banks of the Preguiças River, which adds to its charm. Tourists can take boat trips on the river, which meanders through picturesque landscapes, mangroves, and small villages before eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean.

Brazilian North Beaches (BRA)

Lencois Maranhenses North Brazilian Beaches

Brazilian Northern beaches are known for their pristine natural beauty. Many of them are surrounded by lush rainforests, rivers, and unique ecosystems, creating a stunning backdrop for beachgoers.
Unlike some of the more popular tourist destinations in Brazil, the Northern beaches are often remote and less crowded. This remoteness allows for a quieter and more peaceful beach experience.
The Northern region enjoys a tropical climate, so the waters of these beaches are generally warm year-round. This makes them ideal for swimming and water activities.
The Amazon Rainforest, which extends into the Northern region, is home to a wide variety of unique wildlife. Visitors to these beaches may have the opportunity to see animals like pink dolphins, giant river otters, and exotic birds.
Many Northern beaches are located along rivers rather than the open ocean. This means that the water levels can vary significantly with the tides, creating interesting tidal pools and unique beachfront landscapes.
The Northern region is culturally diverse, with a mix of indigenous, Afro-Brazilian, and Portuguese influences. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, music, and traditions, making it a rich cultural experience for visitors.
The Northern beaches offer a range of adventure opportunities such as river tours, jungle treks, and water sports like kitesurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding. It’s a region where you can combine beach relaxation with outdoor adventures.

What to visit?

Fortaleza

Fortaleza is a coastal city located in the northeastern part of Brazil. It is the capital of the state of Ceará and is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history.
Fortaleza is famous for its stunning beaches. Some of the most popular ones include Praia do Futuro, Praia de Iracema, and Praia de Meireles. These beaches offer golden sands, warm waters, and a lively atmosphere with beachside bars and restaurants.
Fortaleza is known for its rich cultural heritage, influenced by Portuguese, African, and indigenous cultures. You can experience this cultural diversity through music, dance, cuisine, and art. The city hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Fortaleza has several historic sites worth exploring. The Forte de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, also known as Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, is a historic fortress that gave the city its name. The Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture is another important cultural and historical site in the city.
Fortaleza offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The neighborhoods of Praia de Iracema and Meireles are known for their nightlife, and they come alive after dark.

 

Jericoacoara

Jericoacoara, often simply referred to as Jeri, is a small and picturesque village located on the northern coast of Brazil in the state of Ceará. It is renowned for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere.
Jericoacoara is famous for its stunning beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Jericoacoara Beach, Preá Beach, and Malhada Beach. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.
The region surrounding Jericoacoara is characterized by extensive sand dune fields, particularly at locations like the Dune of Jericoacoara and the Dune of Tatajuba. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sandboarding and dune buggy rides to explore these unique landscapes.
One of the most iconic experiences in Jericoacoara is watching the sunset from the Sunset Dune (Duna do Pôr do Sol). It’s a popular gathering spot where people come to witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
The village is located within Jericoacoara National Park, which was established to protect the natural beauty and ecosystems of the region. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna while enjoying outdoor activities.
Jericoacoara is known for its laid-back and bohemian atmosphere. The village has no paved streets, and cars are not allowed in most parts, contributing to its peaceful ambiance.

 

Pipa


Pipa is a charming beach town located in the northeastern state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. It is known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere.
Pipa boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. Praia da Pipa, also known as Pipa Beach, is the main beach and the most popular. It offers golden sands, clear waters, and excellent conditions for swimming and surfing. Other nearby beaches like Praia do Amor (Love Beach) and Praia do Madeiro are also worth visiting.
One of the unique attractions in Pipa is the opportunity to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. You can take boat tours from the town to spot dolphins swimming and playing in the ocean, particularly in the morning.
Pipa is surrounded by natural beauty, including cliffs, forests, and lagoons. It’s a great destination for ecotourism, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the region’s diverse flora and fauna.Despite its small size, Pipa has a vibrant nightlife scene. The town comes alive after dark with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs offering live music, dance, and entertainment.
Pipa is involved in sea turtle conservation efforts, and you can often witness nesting and hatching events on its beaches. Local organizations work to protect these endangered creatures.
Pipa is a hidden gem on the Brazilian coastline, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Lencois Maranhenses & Brazilian North Beaches

Dolphins, turquoise beaches, kitesurf and much, much more to see.

Why people loves nave tours

NMC
NMC
2023-04-15
A Special Travel Agent During our family's trip to Chile and Argentina from December 2022 to January 2023, Mario Mellado from Nave Tours provided exceptional service. Mario promptly responded to our requests and worked with us to create a customized itinerary that included excellent guides and hotel accommodations. Even when we faced an unexpected airline disruption that required several changes to our plans, Mario quickly responded and efficiently reworked our itinerary. He also ensured that we received eligible refunds for prepaid hotel costs. Mario went above and beyond to make our trip enjoyable, demonstrating a high level of care for our family's needs. Overall, we highly recommend Mario and Nave Tours for their excellent service.
Travelwag
Travelwag
2023-03-26
I highly recommend NAVE TOURS. I was struggling to book travel to Chile when I came across Chiara on a web search. I was reluctant to book with a company unknown to me, but after meeting face to face via WhatsApp with Chiara, my husband and I felt comfortable booking with her. She made excellent recommendations and saved us from spending time in undesirable locations. Chiara was exceptionally responsive and got back to me in a very timely manner as we worked to put an itinerary together. The 3 weeks went without a hitch. Incredibly all the tour guides and transfers arrived exactly as planned. The tours were all with English speaking guides and excellent. I can’t recommend this company enough. In regards to the payment, Nave suggested using WISE money transfer. This was a leap of faith for me as I was not familiar with this platform. The fees are exceptionally low for transfers. I took the plunge and hoped for the best and again, this payment method worked well. If we travel in South America again I will be booking with Nave Tours.
AHMED
AHMED
2023-01-02
Tailored trips by Mario(Nave Tours) Mario arranged everything in my trip from A to Z tailored on my requirements, and given attention to details based on previous trips which he arranged(like in what are my accommodation preferences, duration of stays, private transportation , etc.). In addition, the people who pick me up from airport are always English speakers, friendly and besides they are locals. So they explain detailed history of the places visiting and also offering any sort of support needed. I only rely on Mario for my Central/South American countries, highly recommended!!
Erin P
Erin P
2022-12-12
Definitely worth hiking Aguas de Ramon in Santiago We used nave tours to hike Aguas de Ramon outside of Santiago! He booked a guide for us that arranged communication, pick up, drop off, park fees, and info. Our guide was wonderful and very accommodating. He carried our extra water and let one of us use his hiking stick. It would have been a much less enjoyable hike without his presence!
Marian S
Marian S
2020-03-06
Made to feel special I travelled solo to Chile in February 2020. I booked an Antarctic Cruise leaving from Punta Arenas and wanted activities on either side of the cruise dates that would give me a fair view of what Chile is like. After months of exploring ideas, available tours and costs I despaired at finding anything suitable that did not involve paying a single supplement for accommodation or space on a tour. I Googled for travel agents with specialised knowledge of Chile and asked for help in securing single-priced accommodation in specific places. Only one agent responded - Nave Tours. Within no time Mario and I agreed on places and activities. He gave valuable input on my ideas and was accommodating in my wish to experience the Mapuche culture. His arrangements here exceeded my expectations.Two weeks before I was due to leave for Chile my Antarctic cruise was cancelled, leaving a gaping hole in my itinerary. Within three days of asking Mario to help fill the gap and expand the range of places to see, it was all finalised and paid for. He extended my scope to include the desert area around La Serena because he knew I'd be interested in indigenous culture. This was a superb idea.The logistics of travel went off without a hitch. Where travel time was long he ensured that my driver was English speaking so I could have conversations about Chile, its culture, history and current tensions. Every plane was met. Each hotel booked without complications on arrival or departure.Mario's email responses to my queries from the far side of the Atlantic at all hours made me feel he didn't sleep much and that I was the only client who mattered. I felt super safe in his hands. I could relax and enjoy my holiday.
Esther C
Esther C
2020-01-27
trip of a lifetime i was googling for agents who could plan a trip to patagonia that would cover 1) all the places i wanted and 2) for the dates that i could travel. loads of agencies out there but nothing that fit my bill or wallet. stumbled across Nanook, which is essentially a matchmaker between you and one of their agents local to the place you want to go, and that’s how i met Mario of Navetours. Mario’s emails may come across curt at first, but i realised that’s just how he phrases things. almost every email i sent was promptly replied to, and with the information i needed. as a solo female, i had loads of questions and concerns about my safety, but Mario was able to put me at ease. when the protests in santiago broke out, he also kept me updated and even offered to change hotels for me to a suburb that was safer and further away from the protests. the tours that he arranged for me were great. i enjoyed myself immensely travelling to south patagonia, tierra del fuego and atacama. the pace was just nice and the people i’ve met were great and friendly too! whatever activities and hikes i wanted to do, mario was able to recommend the right ones. if there’s one that was slightly economically unsound, Mario also made sure that i know before i make any commitment.we kept in constant contact throughout my trip using WhatsApp, which was great for when there’s any issue. the only qualm i had was with the Keoken Hostel; the staff was aloof and even grumpy when they realised i was right and had a reservation with them - when it was actually their staff who forgot to key it in after receiving payment months ago. i’m sure there’re way better accommodations in Punta Arenas. in any case, i would highly recommend Mario and Navetours if you’re heading to Patagonia!
Monika M
Monika M
2019-10-07
Great service and professional partner. Great service for our travel agency's client from Poland. Nave Tours organized a tailor made trip lasting over 3 weeks including Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. The cooperation was fantastic and very professional on each step - from planning till the end of guest's trip. Great people, very helpful and perfect organization. An unforgettable experience for our client. We are looking forward to working with you again.
Ida Elise T
Ida Elise T
2019-07-30
Peru and Bolivia Very good service and help to create the perfect in Peru and Boliva. Included all the highlights we wanted to see and made a program that was easy to understand and where all the details were included.
joeymantua
joeymantua
2019-06-05
Amazing tour guide and enriching cultural experience I went on a study abroad trip with my school visiting Santiago (Chile), Valparaiso (Chile), and Buenos Aires (Argentina). My group's tour guide Mario was personable, informative and great at planning activities. Not only did he take us to great restaurants and tourist attractions but he also provided us with recommendations for when we had nothing planned. Mario's dedication to our group was incredible and he definitely left a positive mark on me and my whole group.
Christina
Christina
2019-06-04
An unforgettable experience. For two weeks, I as well as 19 of my peers went on a study abroad trip to Santiago, Chile and Buenos Aires, Argentina with Mario as our tour guide. This was my first time ever traveling out of the United States and everything was EXCELLENT. Mario truly made it an unforgettable experience. He was always patient with our group, made sure everything was scheduled accordingly, and was able to bounce back and work quickly to resolve any bumps that came along. His outgoing and caring personality made the trip even more enjoyable, and I was genuinely sad to see him go when our trip was over.

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Things not to miss when visiting Lençois Maranhenses

Unique landscape of vast, white sand dunes interrupted by turquoise lagoons.

"Rota das Emoções" (Emotions Route)

This is a popular tourist route in northeastern Brazil that connects three stunning destinations: Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Maranhão, Jericoacoara in Ceará, and Delta do Parnaíba in Piauí. This route is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and unique landscapes.

The Rota das Emocoes Emotions Route

Walking Tour

São Luís boasts a well-preserved historic city center that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can take a guided walking tour to explore the colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and visit landmarks like the São Luís Cathedral and the Mercado Central.

Walking Tour

Alcântara Day Trip

Alcântara is a nearby historic town known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. You can take a boat trip from São Luís to Alcântara and explore the town’s historic streets, churches, and forts.

Alcantara Day Trip

Culinary Tours

Maranhão cuisine is famous for its unique flavors and dishes like “cuxá” and “arroz de cuxá.” Consider taking a culinary tour to taste the local specialties and visit local markets.

Culinary Tours

Reggae Nightclubs

São Luís is known as the “Brazilian Jamaica” due to its strong reggae music scene. Explore the city’s reggae-themed nightclubs and bars to experience the local music culture.

Reggae Nightclubs

Boat Tours

Consider taking a boat tour along the Preguiças River to explore the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, known for its surreal sand dunes and freshwater lagoons.

Boat Tours 1 1

São Luís Carnival

If you visit during Carnival season, São Luís hosts vibrant and unique Carnival celebrations, with traditional dance groups and parades.

Sao Luis Carnival

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park Tour

This is the main attraction in the area. You can take guided tours to explore the unique landscape of the Lençóis Maranhenses, which features vast sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. Tours often include visits to popular lagoons like Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita.

Lencois Maranhenses National Park Tour

Preguiças River Boat Tour

Take a boat trip along the Preguiças River, which runs through the Lençóis Maranhenses region. During the tour, you can visit small villages like Vassouras, where you can see monkeys and enjoy the river’s scenic beauty.

Preguicas River Boat Tour

Atins

Consider a day trip to Atins, a charming village known for its pristine beaches and proximity to the Lençóis Maranhenses. You can explore Atins by buggy, relax on its sandy shores, or enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Atins

Caburé Beach

Caburé is another beautiful beach in the region, situated between the Preguiças River and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s accessible by boat, and you can enjoy its tranquility and natural beauty.

Cabure Beach

Sunset Dune Tour

Experience the breathtaking sunset over the sand dunes by taking a late afternoon dune buggy tour. The changing colors of the dunes as the sun sets are a sight to behold.

Sunset Dune Tour

Kiteboarding

Barreirinhas is a great spot for kiteboarding due to its favorable wind conditions. If you’re an experienced kiteboarder or want to learn, you can arrange lessons and equipment rental.

Kiteboarding

Bird Watching

The region around Barreirinhas is home to various bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Bird Watching

Stargazing

The night skies in this remote area are incredibly clear. Consider joining a stargazing tour to appreciate the beauty of the stars and constellations.

Stargazing

Beach Hopping

Fortaleza is famous for its stunning beaches. You can explore Praia de Iracema, Meireles, and Mucuripe, each with its unique charm. Consider taking a beach buggy tour to visit multiple beaches in one day.

Beach Hopping 1 1

Cumbuco Beach

Located just outside Fortaleza, Cumbuco is a popular destination for water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. You can also take a dune buggy tour in the surrounding sand dunes.

Cumbuco Beach

Nightlife

Fortaleza has a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to the Praia de Iracema area for bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Nightlife

Fortaleza City Tour

Take a guided city tour to see the main landmarks and learn about the city’s history and culture.

Fortaleza City Tour

Dune Buggy Tour

Explore the mesmerizing sand dunes surrounding Jericoacoara by taking a dune buggy tour. You can visit iconic spots like the Sunset Dune (Duna do Pôr do Sol) to witness breathtaking sunsets.

Dune Buggy Tour

Lagoa do Paraíso

This stunning lagoon, known as “Lagoon of Paradise,” is a must-visit. You can relax in hammocks over the clear waters, swim, paddleboard, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Lagoa do Paraiso

Lagoa Azul

Another beautiful lagoon, Lagoa Azul, is known for its crystal-clear waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming and taking in the serene surroundings.

Lagoa Azul

Pedra Furada

Hike or take a guided tour to Pedra Furada, a natural rock formation with a hole in the center. It’s an iconic spot for photos, especially during sunset.

Pedra Furada

Jericoacoara National Park

Explore the natural wonders within the Jericoacoara National Park, which includes sand dunes, beaches, and unique landscapes. You can take guided tours to explore the park’s beauty.

Jericoacoara National Park

Mangue Seco

Take a day trip to Mangue Seco, a nearby village known for its stunning beaches and mangrove ecosystems. It’s a great place for a peaceful getaway.

Mangue Seco

Nightlife

Jericoacoara has a vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy live music, dance the night away at beachfront bars, or simply relax with a drink and watch the stars.

Nightlife

Stargazing

Due to its remote location, Jericoacoara offers excellent stargazing opportunities. Consider taking a stargazing tour to marvel at the night sky.

Stargazing

Dolphin Watching

Pipa is famous for its dolphin-watching tours. You can take a boat trip to see the dolphins in their natural habitat, and some tours even allow you to swim with them.

Dolphin Watching

Praia do Amor

Visit Praia do Amor, the most famous beach in Pipa, known for its stunning cliffs, clear waters, and great surfing conditions. You can also hike to the top of the cliffs for panoramic views.

Praia do Amor

Chapadao Hill

Hike to the top of Chapadao Hill for breathtaking views of the coastline and sunsets. It’s a popular spot for photographers.

Praia do Amor

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Explore the underwater world by snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters off the Pipa coast. There are several dive shops in the area.

Chapadao Hill

Kitesurfing and Windsurfing

Pipa is a popular destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its windy conditions. You can take lessons or rent equipment if you’re experienced.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving