Written by Alexander Kopp, Maria Gaulto, Maria Vajello
06/08/2025
Renato Nascimento, Pexels
Barreirinhas serves as the primary gateway to the breathtaking Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a unique landscape of vast white sand dunes punctuated by seasonal turquoise lagoons. Beyond the iconic dunes, visitors can explore the scenic Preguiças River, venturing to charming riverside villages and encountering diverse wildlife.
For those looking to connect with other travelers, Barreirinhas offers a social atmosphere, particularly within its hostels which often feature inviting common areas and shared facilities. The town's main pedestrianized square can also be a lively hub, especially on weekend evenings, with street food, local music, and a vibrant local scene.
Top 3 Things to do in Barreirinhas
Exploring the vast white sand dunes and vibrant lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses, embarking on tranquil river excursions to charming riverside communities, and discovering beachside villages.
1. Explore Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (Lagoa Bonita or Lagoa Azul Circuit)
Venturing into the breathtaking Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is an unparalleled experience, characterized by immense white sand dunes punctuated by seasonal, crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. The most common circuits, Lagoa Bonita and Lagoa Azul, offer opportunities to trek over the vast sand dunes and cool off with a refreshing swim in the lagoons. From atop the dunes, panoramic views of this unique landscape unfold. It is important to note that lagoon depths vary with the season, with the best time to visit generally from May to September, after the rainy season, when they are at their fullest.
Cost: Guided 4x4 tours are mandatory for park access, typically ranging from R$110 to R$130 per person for a half-day tour. Options may include combined tours of multiple lagoons.
Transport: Access to the park is exclusively via organized 4x4 vehicles, which typically include hotel pick-up in Barreirinhas.
2. Boat Tour along Preguiças River (Vassouras, Mandacaru, Caburé)
Embarking on a speedboat tour along the tranquil Preguiças River provides a different perspective of the region's natural beauty. This journey includes stops at charming riverside villages. At Vassouras, one can explore the 'Pequenos Lençóis' (Little Lençóis) with smaller dunes and lagoons, and observe playful capuchin monkeys. The tour continues to Mandacaru, where climbing the Preguiças Lighthouse offers sweeping panoramic views of the river, sea, and surrounding landscapes. The final stop is Caburé, a picturesque sand peninsula separating the river from the ocean, offering a chance to relax on the beach or enjoy fresh seafood.
Cost: A full-day boat tour typically costs around R$80 to R$140 per person. Lunch at Caburé is usually not included in the tour price.
Transport: Tours depart from Barreirinhas Wharf, with hotel pick-up often included.
3. Day Trip to Atins Village and Lagoons
Visiting Atins offers a blend of adventure and tranquility, allowing one to experience a more secluded part of the Lençóis Maranhenses. A 4x4 journey takes you through sandy trails to Atins Beach, where the Preguiças River meets the Atlantic Ocean. The circuit explores beautiful lagoons unique to the Atins area, providing opportunities for swimming and relaxation amidst the dunes. The village itself is known for its kitesurfing conditions and local culinary delights, particularly grilled shrimp.
Cost: A full-day 4x4 tour to Atins can cost around R$200 to R$1000 per person. Some tours are priced around R$36. Lunch is typically not included.
Transport: Access is primarily via 4x4 vehicles from Barreirinhas, which often includes crossing the Preguiças River by raft. Boat transfers from Barreirinhas to Atins are also available.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
