Arrival to Fortaleza airport. Transfer to accommodation. Free time to explore or rest!
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Best Time to Visit Lencois Maranhenses
Lencois Maranhenses can be visited all year round, but the experience changes a lot depending on the season.
May to September is the period we strongly recommend. The lagoons are normally full after the rainy season, offering the classic Lencois Maranhenses experience: endless white dunes with clear freshwater lagoons in between. Peak lagoon conditions are normally found between June and August.
From January to April, the rainy season gradually fills the lagoons. The landscape gets better as the season progresses, but rain can be expected and some lagoons may not yet be completely full.
From September/October to January, the weather is generally drier, but many of the lagoons gradually lose their water and some can dry out completely. The dunes are always there and the region can still be visited, but the experience can be quite different from the images normally associated with Lencois Maranhenses.
For the best combination of full lagoons, beautiful landscapes and good trekking conditions, we strongly recommend travelling between May and September, with June to August normally offering the best lagoon conditions.
Enjoy a full day at leisure to discover the vibrant capital of Ceará.
Start your day by relaxing at Praia de Iracema or Meireles Beach, where you can stroll along the lively oceanfront promenade lined with cafés, coconut vendors and local markets.
If you enjoy local culture, visit the Central Market, one of the best places to browse regional handicrafts, hammocks, leather goods and souvenirs. Nearby, the Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture offers museums, galleries and cultural exhibitions in one of Fortaleza's most iconic buildings.
As the afternoon cools down, walk along the famous Beira Mar Avenue, where locals gather to exercise, enjoy the sea breeze and browse the evening handicraft market.
For dinner, we recommend trying some of Ceará's traditional cuisine or enjoying fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants before preparing for your journey to Jericoacoara the following day.
Check out, go on your own to the bus station to take the bus to Jericoacoara. Arrival at about 3 to 4 pm after a 7 hours ride. Go on your own to your accommodation and check in. Get aquaited to the village, walk about the beach and investigate the places you are going to explore the following day.
Today is yours to enjoy Jericoacoara at your own pace.
We recommend spending the morning relaxing on the beautiful main beach, swimming in the warm waters or simply unwinding at one of the many beachfront cafés and bars. Take some time to explore the village, stroll through its charming sandy streets, browse the local handicraft shops and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere that has made Jerico one of Brazil's most beloved beach destinations.
In the late afternoon, don't miss the spectacular sunset from the famous Sunset Dune (Duna do Por do Sol). Watching the sun disappear into the Atlantic Ocean is a daily tradition in Jericoacoara and one of the highlights of any visit.
In the evening, choose from the many restaurants and bars offering fresh seafood, Brazilian cuisine and live music.
Enjoy another free day in paradise.
If the tide allows, we highly recommend walking along the beach to the iconic Pedra Furada, Jericoacoara's famous natural rock arch. The scenic walk takes around 40–50 minutes each way and offers beautiful coastal views.
Jerico is also internationally renowned for its ideal wind conditions, making it one of the world's top destinations for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Even if you don't practice these sports, it is fascinating to watch the colourful kites dancing across the sky from the beach.
Alternatively, simply relax, enjoy the slow pace of life, read a book under a palm tree, or treat yourself to another unforgettable sunset before continuing your journey through Northeast Brazil.
Check out, shuttle from Jericoacoara to Barreirinhas, at the gate of the Lencois Maranhenses. Departure at about 8.45 hs Arrival after a 7 hours and 30 minutes ride. Go on your own to your accommodation. Check in and rest
Note: departures Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays only.
Departure from Barreirinhas at 8:30 a.m. by boat to visit several lagoons, heading to the isolated village of Atins. Lunch in the village of Caburé.
Departure by 4x4 vehicle from Atins for a 20 km drive along the ocean to Rio Negro. Then an 8 km hike on foot through the dunes to the first oasis called Baixa Grande. Many natural pools along the way for swimming. Overnight in hammocks and meals included in Baixa Grande.
Before your departure, please read the following information carefully.
Registration Form
To confirm your participation, everyone must complete the registration and liability waiver form before departure:
https://forms.gle/mW2p2SWUz2zCjS9E8
Meeting Point
Meet at 8:00 AM at the reception of Em Boas Mãos Hostel. From there, you will walk together to the boat departure point.
Luggage
Please label any luggage left at the hostel with your name. Travel as light as possible. The hostel staff will explain the luggage storage procedure.
What to Bring
Bring only the essentials. Shoes are not necessary, as most of the trek is done barefoot. During the rainy season, a light rain jacket is recommended. Hammocks and bed linen are provided at the overnight oasis.
Facilities
The oasis houses have simple outdoor showers and toilets. Electricity is available to recharge electronic devices. Water, soft drinks and a few basic items can be purchased along the route.
Water
Drinking water is available during the trek, but it is cheaper to buy it in Barreirinhas before departure. We recommend taking two large bottles per person.
Evening Temperature
Evenings in the oases can be cooler than expected, especially after a full day of hiking. If you are sensitive to the cold, bring a light sweater.
Cash
Bring some cash for drinks and personal expenses. Around BRL 50–100 per person is usually enough.
*Recommended Gear for the Trek:*
● Swimsuit
● Towel
● Sunglasses
● Hat
● Flip-flops
● Sunscreen
● Insect repellent
● Shorts
● Long-sleeve t-shirt (for sun protection) or short-sleeve t-shirt
● Flashlight or phone
● 2x1.5L of water per person
*Optional Items:*
● Sarong
● Rain cape (rainy season)
● 1 pair of socks
● Cereal bars or snacks
Early wake-up at 5:00 a.m. to start walking around 6:00 a.m. at sunrise. A 12 km hike through the dunes to the second oasis, Queimadas dos Britos. Lunch and afternoon rest in the house, in hammocks. Sunset around the oasis. Many natural pools along the way for swimming. Overnight in hammocks and meals included in this second oasis.
Very early wake-up, around 3:30 a.m., to begin the final day under the stars! A 15 km hike through the dunes until reaching Betânia. Many lagoons along the way. Finally, a last 4x4 transfer from Betânia to Santo Amaro. Lunch in Santo Amaro. End of the trek before 1:00 p.m.
Transfer back to Barreirinhas for the last night in this wonderful region.
Check out, shuttle to Sao Luis Airport to continue your travels. End of adventure!
Barreirinhas → São Luís Timetable:
Departure times:
6:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (4 hours ride)
