Trekking 3 days and 2 nights

Exploring the 3-Day Trekking Adventure in Lençóis Maranhenses

Imagine a place where vast, shifting sand dunes meet shimmering, multicolored lagoons — a landscape that feels more like a surreal painting than reality. This 3-day, 2-night trekking tour in Barreirinhas, Brazil, offers just that. At a price of around $719 per person, this adventure is for those eager for a physically demanding journey through one of the most unique regions on Earth.

Our guides, often named Rickson by travelers, are praised for their knowledge, making every step informative and engaging. We loved how the tour combines stunning scenery with authentic local culture, giving us a true taste of life in the “desert” where nature rules supreme.

One standout feature is the diverse itinerary, taking us from boat rides along the coast, through towering dunes, to peaceful lagoons that change colors with the sun. Another highlight is the chance to meet native communities, experiencing their way of life that has persisted for generations.

A possible drawback? The tour is high in difficulty, requiring good physical fitness. The long walks, often over sand dunes, can be tiring but incredibly rewarding. This experience is ideal for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want a challenging journey that tests both body and mind.

If you’re someone who loves authentic landscapes and is prepared for some physical effort, this trip could be your perfect adventure. It’s especially suitable for those willing to start early, hike in the heat, and appreciate the untouched beauty of nature.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes of dunes and lagoons make this a bucket-list experience.
• Authentic cultural encounters with local communities deepen the journey.
• The high level of physical activity means it’s best suited for fit travelers.
• Private transportation and included meals add convenience for a hassle-free trip.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with their knowledge and attentiveness.
• The 3-day itinerary balances adventure, scenery, and culture.

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Trekking Tour

Day 1: From Barreirinhas to Baixa Grande

The adventure begins with a boat ride from Barreirinhas to Atins, passing by the Island of the Monkeys (Vassouras) and the iconic Caburé beach, where land meets sea and rivers. These stops set a relaxed tone, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch our legs.

Lunch at a local restaurant on the beach is a highlight — fresh seafood with a view. After lunch, we switch to a 4×4 vehicle that takes us across dunes and lagoons. This part of the journey feels like traveling through a painting — endless rolling dunes interrupted by crystalline lakes. We reached Baixa Grande late in the evening, just in time for a spectacular sunset over the sands — a moment many reviews describe as unforgettable.

The journey emphasizes the remote beauty of the region, with the dunes seemingly endless and the lagoons inviting us for a quick dip before settling into our campsite or lodge for the night.

Day 2: Trekking Through the Heart of Lençóis Maranhenses

This is the most physically demanding day, with a 14 km trek to the region of Rancharia. The guide will coordinate stops to bathe in lagoons and snap photos of the best views — a good reminder that nature’s best moments often come with a bit of effort.

The landscape here is stunningly varied — shimmering lagoons of different colors, giant dunes, and silent, untouched rivers. The guides often share stories about the native inhabitants, enriching the experience with local culture.

A lunch included in the itinerary provides a welcome break, giving us time to recover from the morning’s hike. The afternoon offers free time to explore local culture or simply relax, soaking in the scenery and observing the native way of life, which remains largely unchanged.

Day 3: The Final Highlights — Lagoa do Cajueiro and Lagoa Santo Amaro

The last day begins with a visit to the famous Lagoa do Cajueiro, known for its vibrant colors and curves. The lagoon’s shape and hue tend to captivate visitors, and many reviews mention it as a highlight. The walk up to the lagoon, with its staircase view, gives an incredible perspective on the landscape.

After enjoying the lagoon, the tour transfers us to Lagoa Santo Amaro, completing the circuit of some of the region’s most iconic lagoons. Expect around 4 hours of travel and sightseeing on this final day before heading back to Barreirinhas.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package offers private transportation, so you won’t be sharing a crowded bus with strangers—a huge plus for comfort and flexibility. It also covers all fees and taxes, ensuring no surprises. Meals include three dinners and two lunches, giving you fuel for the adventures but leaving breakfast unsupplied, so plan accordingly.

The air-conditioned vehicle makes the transfers more comfortable, especially during the hotter parts of the day. Since the tour is only for your group, it feels more personalized, with guides attentive to your needs.

However, breakfasts are not included, so you’ll want to prepare for early mornings and plan for snacks or your own breakfast supplies. The price of about $718.98 per person may seem steep, but considering the full itinerary, included meals, transport, and expert guides**, many find it offers good value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Considerations for Travelers

The tour’s high difficulty level is an important factor. Expect long walks over sand, exposure to hot sun, and demands on your physical endurance. The reviews highlight how some find it exhausting but worth the effort: “Since the first contact that was on a Sunday night, I already got a reply. Staff very demanding and responsible.”

This experience suits active travelers who enjoy challenging outdoor activities and are ready for a full-body workout. If you love off-the-beaten-path adventures and want to connect deeply with nature and local culture, this tour will be a highlight.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. One reviewer described Rickson as “very helpful and attentive,” which really makes a difference when navigating such a demanding landscape.

Many travelers mention the stunning scenery — lagoons of deep blue, multicolored waters, and immense dunes. One said, “Enjoy the mancha of the Beautiful Lagoon with its arrival by the staircase and view of immense, walking to its beauty.” This suggests that the scenery truly lives up to its reputation.

The service quality also shines through reviewer comments — from punctual transfers to attentive staff, making the logistics smooth despite the physical intensity of the trip.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This trekking tour in Lençóis Maranhenses is a rare experience that rewards those who seek more than just sightseeing. It’s perfect for adventurous, fit travelers eager for a challenging journey through one of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. The combination of stunning scenery, cultural encounters, and expert guides makes it a worthwhile investment for those prepared to put in the effort.

While the tour’s cost reflects the comprehensive nature and quality of the experience, it’s essential to consider the physical demands. If you’re not used to long hikes or exposure to the sun, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider more relaxed options.

For those who love authentic adventure and want to witness the unspoiled beauty of Brazil’s desert-like dunes and lagoons, this trek offers an unmatched experience. Expect memories that last a lifetime and stories that will surely impress your friends back home.

FAQ

How many days does the tour last?
The tour spans 3 days and 2 nights, packed with sightseeing, trekking, and cultural experiences.

What is included in the price?
The package covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, three dinners, and two lunches. The boat ride, 4×4 transfers, and guided hikes are part of the package.

Are meals provided?
Yes, dinners (3) and lunches (2) are included. Breakfast is not included, so plan to bring snacks or arrange your own.

Is this tour suitable for children or less active travelers?
Given the high physical difficulty, it’s best suited for active, fit individuals. Less energetic or young children may find it too demanding.

What should I bring?
Prepare for long hikes over sand, sun exposure, and varying weather. Essentials include comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, plenty of water, and a hat.

Will I see lagoons of different colors?
Yes, especially on the final day at Lagoa do Cajueiro and Lagoa Santo Amaro, known for their vibrant hues and curving shapes.

How do I get to the starting point?
Your trip begins at Hotel Pousada do Buriti in Barreirinhas, with pickup included. The tour ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, ensuring flexibility if needed.

What makes this trip special?
The combination of stunning landscapes, cultural encounters, and expert guidance creates an authentic, memorable adventure for those ready to embrace the challenge.

To sum it up, this trekking adventure in Lençóis Maranhenses offers a rare glimpse into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. It’s a great choice for travelers who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and physical challenge. If you’re prepared to put in some effort, this tour promises memorable vistas, meaningful cultural insights, and a true sense of achievement.