Caburé – Boat tour on the Rio Preguiças

Caburé – Boat tour on the Rio Preguiças offers a balanced and captivating way to explore some of Brazil’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. For around $55 per person, you’ll spend 7 hours cruising on a speedboat through the calm waters of the Rio Preguiças, visiting charming small settlements, lush mangroves, and the iconic lighthouse of Mandacaru.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the stunning scenery—think rivers lined with towering mangroves and views of Atlantic beaches from the lighthouse. Second, the authentic local interaction—stopping at tiny villages like Vassouras and Mandacaru gives you a glimpse into daily life away from tourist crowds.

One possible consideration? The tour is entirely in Portuguese, so non-Portuguese speakers might find the guide’s commentary less accessible unless they book a guide in their language. Still, many travelers find the visuals alone worth the trip.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, local culture, and a mix of relaxation and light adventure. If you want a laid-back yet immersive way to see the Riverscape and coastline of Maranhão, this is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit small villages and see local life away from tourist-heavy spots.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Mandacaru lighthouse and riverside scenery.
• Flexible Options: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
• Value for Money: For $55, you get a full day of scenic cruising, snacks, water, and a guide.
• Limited English Support: Guides are in Portuguese; additional guides in other languages can be booked.
• Relaxing Day: Opportunities to swim or relax in hammocks at Caburé.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Caburé Boat Tour

Setting the Scene: Where and When

This 7-hour boat excursion begins early, with departure around 8:00 AM from the town of Barreirinhas. The fact that pickup is included—either directly from your hotel or a nearby river dock—means you can avoid the hassle of organizing transportation to the boat launch. The trip is operated by LencoisPrime EcoTour, a provider with solid reviews and a reputation for organized, attentive service.

The tour’s core appeal is its combination of scenic waterways, small settlements, and the ocean, making it a versatile outing for nature lovers, culture seekers, and those wanting a relaxing day on the water. The cost is moderate, especially considering the length and inclusions, but it’s important to note that lunch, drinks, and guides in languages other than Portuguese are extra.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The day kicks off with a speedboat ride along the Rio Preguiças, a tranquil waterway flanked by dense mangroves and small communities. The first stop is Vassouras, a tiny settlement where you get a peek into local life—what the reviews call a “small Lencois,” a quiet glimpse into rural Maranhão.

Next, the boat heads to Mandacaru, a fishing village famous for its lighthouse. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the beaches of Caburé, Atins, and the surrounding coastline. The lighthouse visit is a highlight for its sweeping vistas—perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

From Mandacaru, the boat proceeds to Caburé, a narrow strip of beach and riverfront. Here, you have some free time for lunch. You can relax in a hammock, swim in the Atlantic Ocean on one side, or wade in the river on the other. It’s a laid-back spot, ideal for unwinding after the morning’s explorations.

The return trip follows the same route, offering more views of mangroves, small villages, and the coastline. The tour ends back in Barreirinhas in the late afternoon.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What we love about this tour is how it offers more than just sightseeing. Many travelers comment on the knowledgeable guides—though they speak mainly in Portuguese, their attentiveness and local insights add depth to the experience. Julia notes, “Great service from Lencois Prime Ecotour,” highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of the crew.

The small villages like Vassouras and Mandacaru are real places, not tourist traps. As Rita points out, “The landscapes of the places we passed through were sensational,” and she appreciated the delightful town of Caburé along with the tasty lunch.

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The Experience of the Scenery

Expect to see lush mangroves, which are vital ecosystems teeming with birdlife and offering a peaceful ambiance. The lighthouse at Mandacaru is a true standout—climbing it provides a sweeping view of the coastline, making it a perfect photo stop and a tangible reminder of the area’s rugged beauty.

The beaches of Caburé and Atins are also worth noting. The Atlantic Ocean on one side and the river on the other create contrasting environments—ideal for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking up the scenery. Many reviews mention the tasty lunch and the relaxing environment as a highlight, with Julia emphasizing the “good lunch break” and Rita mentioning the “sensational landscapes.”

Practical Aspects: Cost, Duration, and Inclusions

Considering the $55 price tag, the tour offers generous value. It includes hotel pickup, a local guide, 1 liter of water, and a small snack—all of which help make the long day comfortable. You’ll want to bring your sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, and beachwear, as well as some cash for optional extras.

The duration—around 7 hours—means you get plenty of time on the water and ashore without overdoing it. The group size is not specified but tends to be moderate, allowing for a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour is a fantastic way to explore the region, keep in mind that guides speak only in Portuguese. If language is a concern, you might find it helpful to bring a translation app or seek an additional guide in your language. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

The fact that lunch and drinks are extra means you’ll want to budget a little more if you’re planning to dine at Caburé. However, the freedom to choose your lunch spot and enjoy a leisurely break is part of what makes this experience special.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for nature lovers who want to see the mangroves, villages, and coastline from a different perspective. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic small communities and panoramic views from the lighthouse. If you’re seeking a relaxed day with a mix of scenic cruising and leisure, this tour hits the spot.

Travelers who enjoy informal, off-the-beaten-path experiences will appreciate the genuine atmosphere and the opportunity to see local life up close. However, those who prefer guided commentary in languages other than Portuguese may need to prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at around 8:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup, boat trip, a local guide, 1 liter of water, and a small snack.

Can I book a guide in my language?
Guides in languages other than Portuguese can be booked additionally, but the default is Portuguese.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time to buy or enjoy a meal at Caburé.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, beachwear, and cash for extra expenses. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and may be better suited for those comfortable with a boat ride and walking on uneven surfaces.

What are the main highlights?
Visiting small villages, climbing the Mandacaru lighthouse, enjoying scenic views of mangroves and beaches, and relaxing at Caburé.

How scenic is the boat ride?
Expect gorgeous views of mangroves, river channels, and coastline—many travelers mention the “sensational landscapes” and “beautiful scenery.”

Is there a restroom on board?
The provided information doesn’t specify, so it’s safest to assume facilities are limited; plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Caburé boat tour on the Rio Preguiças offers a lovely mix of natural beauty, small-scale local culture, and relaxed leisure. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a scenic, authentic, and peaceful experience away from crowded tourist spots. The fact that many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views confirms that this is a worthwhile way to explore Maranhão’s coast.

While language might be a barrier for some, the visuals and laid-back atmosphere make up for it. It’s a good fit for those looking to connect with nature, enjoy calm waters, and see the coastal ecosystems up close. Just plan to bring your beach gear, some cash, and an open mind, and you’ll likely leave with memorable photos and stories from this scenic river cruise.

In summary, if you’re after a peaceful day immersed in natural landscapes, local villages, and panoramic views from a historic lighthouse, this tour delivers. It’s a straightforward, value-packed way to experience the best of Maranhão’s rivers and coast, ideal for travelers seeking authentic, scenic, and relaxing adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby