From Barreirinhas: 3-Day Trekking Tour to Santo Amaro
Traveling through Brazil’s Northeast often conjures images of lively samba rhythms and sun-drenched beaches, but for a truly unique adventure, a journey into the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park offers something unlike any other. This 3-day trekking tour, starting from Barreirinhas, takes you deep into the largest humid desert in the world, where dunes meet lagoons in a landscape that’s both surreal and stunning.
For $679 per person, you’ll spend three days hiking through vast sands, crossing rivers by boat, and staying overnight in remote villages. What we love most? The chance to witness sunset over lagoons that seem to glow with warm colors, and the experience of walking through an almost otherworldly landscape. But be prepared for early mornings and uneven terrain — this isn’t a casual stroll. It’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
One potential drawback? The itinerary’s reliance on weather conditions—heavy rains or strong winds can shift plans. Still, the overall experience offers a rare glimpse into a hidden corner of Brazil, perfect for adventurous spirits and nature lovers seeking something beyond the typical beach holidays.
If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local culture, this tour is an excellent fit. It suits travelers eager to walk, explore lagoons, and stay in small villages, rather than those seeking luxury or a relaxed beach vibe.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Unique landscape: Traverses the world’s largest humid desert with spectacular dunes and lagoons.
- Authentic villages: Includes visits to local communities like Atins and Queimada dos Britos.
- Active itinerary: 3 days of trekking, with early mornings and substantial walking on uneven surfaces.
- Transport mix: Combines boat rides, 4×4 rides, and walking—offering varied perspectives of the landscape.
- Cultural experience: Opportunities to see local life and enjoy sunsets over pristine lagoons.
- Limited suitability: Not for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
Day 1: From Barreirinhas to Baixa Grande, via boat and dunes
We start with a boat tour along Rio Preguiças, which is a lovely way to see the lush riverbanks and small villages. The boat ride sets a relaxing tone before the adventure turns more rugged. Along the way, you’ll stop at Vassouras, a support point where you can admire Macaquinhos (small lagoons) and see the landscape unfold.
A highlight is the visit to the Farol Lençóis, where climbing 160 steps rewards you with panoramic views of the sea, the river, and the dunes—a perfect spot for photos and a moment of awe. The contrast of the beach of Caburé, with its narrow sand peninsula between water bodies on either side, is striking and offers a break for lunch (note: lunch is not included).
After lunch in Atins, you switch to a 4×4 vehicle for a short ride to the trek start. The first walk of about 8 kilometers takes you to Baixa Grande, where you’ll spend the night. The landscape here is an expansive sea of sand dunes and lagoons, a scene that feels almost surreal—like walking through a living painting.
Day 2: Long walk to Queimada dos Britos
Early mornings are part of the rhythm here, with a 13-kilometer walk from Baixa Grande to Queimada dos Britos. Along the route, you’ll encounter various lagoons, each with its own character and color, making every step visual feast. The walk is physically demanding but varied, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
Arriving in Queimada dos Britos, you settle in for the night, with time to explore more lagoons and catch the sunset—an experience many reviews describe as magical, with lagoons reflecting the changing light.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 3: The dawn trek to Santo Amaro
The final day begins at 2:30 AM with an 18-kilometer walk to Betânia—an early start that pays off with a spectacular sunrise over Lagoa do Junco. You’ll see the landscape light up in warm tones, a moment that often leaves travelers breathless.
You finish in Betânia for lunch, then move on to visit a lagoon and catch one last sunset before heading to Santo Amaro. This part of the journey encapsulates the raw beauty of the dunes and lagoons—so much so that many travelers find it well worth the early wake-up calls.
Transportation and Practical Details
Transportation is a key part of this tour. Expect boat rides along the river, 4×4 rides over the sands, and walking on uneven terrain. The mix of transport modes keeps the experience dynamic, while also allowing access to different parts of the park.
Staying overnight in small villages like Baixa Grande, Queimada dos Britos, and Betânia offers an authentic glimpse into local life—far from tourist hotspots. Accommodations are basic but functional, often in modest guesthouses, which adds to the charm and immersion.
Meals are included as specified, but you might want to bring snacks and water for the hikes, especially on the longer days. The tour provider emphasizes bringing essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a camera — all necessary for a comfortable adventure.
Considerations for travelers
The tour expects moderate physical fitness, as you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing dunes. Early starts mean you’ll need to be prepared for long days. Weather can influence the schedule—heavy rains might alter plans, but the scenery remains impressive regardless.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
Based on reviews, many travelers appreciate the balance of adventure and cultural insight. One noted, “We loved the way the lagoons reflected the sunset, and the walk through the dunes felt like stepping into a dream.” Others mention the guided support and local villages as highlights, providing a deeper connection to the landscape.
A few reviews highlight the physical challenge—”It’s not a walk in the park, but the views and sense of achievement make it worth every step.” The early mornings, while tiring, are often described as “magical moments that make the whole trip worthwhile.”
The Sum Up
This 3-day trekking tour from Barreirinhas to Santo Amaro offers a rare chance to see Brazil’s desert landscapes in their full splendor. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy hiking, exploring remote villages, and witnessing extraordinary sunsets by lagoons. The inclusion of boat rides, dune climbs, and overnight stays in local villages makes the experience well-rounded and authentic.
While not suited for those with mobility issues or seeking luxury, it rewards those willing to walk, get a little dusty, and embrace the unpredictability of weather and terrain. At a reasonable price, you’re paying for up-close encounters with nature and the chance to connect with a landscape few travelers ever see.
If you’re craving a deep, active immersion into Brazil’s lesser-known natural wonders—this tour will certainly deliver.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, mainly because of the physical demands and early mornings involved.
What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential. You’ll walk on uneven surfaces, so sturdy footwear is advised.
How physically demanding is the trek?
Moderate fitness is recommended. The days involve walking 8 to 18 kilometers on dunes and uneven terrain, with some climbing involved.
Are meals included during the tour?
Meals are included as mentioned in the itinerary, but bringing extra snacks and water for the hikes is a good idea.
What transport modes are used?
The tour combines boat rides along the river, 4×4 rides over the sand dunes, and walking on sand and dirt paths.
Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the physical nature and early starts.
What kind of accommodations are provided?
Overnights are in local villages, in modest guesthouses or similar accommodations, offering an authentic stay.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.
What weather conditions could affect the trip?
Heavy rains or strong winds may alter the itinerary, but the landscape remains impressive in all weather conditions.
In summary, this tour offers a genuine chance to see one of Brazil’s most extraordinary natural features—the dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses—on foot, by boat, and in local villages. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a more active, authentic experience of Brazil’s diverse landscapes, with the right mindset and physical readiness.
You can check availability for your dates here: