On the northern coast is this remarkable and little-visited expanse of huge white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons.
The remote Lencois do Maranhao is a unique expanse of sand dunes, freshwater lagoons, rivers, mangroves and isolated communities. What makes Maranhao so special is the way the landscape evolves from one day to the next, as white sand is whipped to and fro by strong coastal winds, re-sculpting the magical landscape. After the rainy season between April and July, small lagoons form in sand, some linking together to provide new waters to explore for fishes. Others are perfect for taking a quick dip in. Maranhao is one of the most interesting, yet little visited natural wonders of Brazil.
The painstakingly restored architecture of the nearby coastal state capital of Sao Luis, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, reflects the influences of both the French and the Portuguese during its long history and makes a perfect accompaniment to a visit to see Maranhao.
Need some help with your trip? Our advisors have travelled extensively and using their firsthand knowledge & experience can help craft your perfect holiday.
Choose your perfect holiday Maranhao Lencois
Find inspiration from our selection of itinerary suggestions, a great starting point for your next trip
Rio de Janeiro - (Iguassu Falls optional) - Salvador da Bahia - Praia do Forte Beach Resort
Ideal for Honeymooners - the romance of Rio, the Iguassu Falls, colonial Salvador and an idyllic Brazilian beach resort
Route
Rio de Janeiro - (Iguassu Falls optional) - Salvador da Bahia - Praia do Forte Beach Resort
Brazil
Costa Verde Tour
10 Nights from
£2,360
Rio de Janeiro - Parati - Ilha Grande
Explore Rio de Janeiro in-depth then journey to Parati colonial village with its pedestrian, cobbled streets, old houses and nearby Ilha Grande.
Route
Rio de Janeiro - Parati - Ilha Grande
Brazil
Rio City Break Tour
6 Nights from
£1,542
Rio de Janeiro
Explore this vibrant exotic City in a stunningly beautiful setting. Enjoy Copacabana beach, visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and discover Rio's Roy…
Route
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
Varzea Tour
13 Nights from
£4,445
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Amazon Expedition Cruise - Salvador
Experience Brazil's most vibrant cities, admire the stunning Iguassu Falls and venture deep into the pristine Amazon Rainforest on a four night expedition cruise
Route
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Amazon Expedition Cruise - Salvador
Brazil
Diamante Tour
13 Nights from
£2,833
Salvador - Chapada Diamantina (Lençois) - Salvador - Morro Sao Paulo
Discover the unique character of blending African and Portuguese heritage in Salvador, forming the roots of Brasilian identity, hike the inland rivers and canyons of Chapada D…
Route
Salvador - Chapada Diamantina (Lençois) - Salvador - Morro Sao Paulo
Brazil
Caiman Nature & Wildlife Tour
14 Nights from
£3,921
Rio de Janeiro - Pantanal - Manaus - Amazon - Salvador - Praia do Forte
Our nature and wildlife Tour of Brazil focuses on the prolific birdlife of the Pantanal wetlands and the exuberant vegetation of the Amazon rainforest
Route
Rio de Janeiro - Pantanal - Manaus - Amazon - Salvador - Praia do Forte
Brazil
Salvador City Break Tour
6 Nights from
£1,358
Salvador da Bahia
Explore the fascinating essence of Brazilian identity; a blend of Portuguese and African heritage, visible in the colonial architecture, Orixas, Capoeira, paintings and music
Route
Salvador da Bahia
Brazil
Carioca Carnival Tour
6 Nights from
£1,577
Rio de Janeiro
Experience the Rio de Janeiro carnival on a week long city break to the Marvellous City. Enjoy an in-depth tour and privileged Sambadrome seats for the best views of the world…
Route
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
Ninos Amazonas Family Tour
14 Nights from
£3,570
Rio - Manaus - Amazon - Salvador - Praia do Forte
Ideal for families, discover the exciting city of Rio, venture deep into the Amazon jungle and relax on the golden beaches of Praia do Forte.
Route
Rio - Manaus - Amazon - Salvador - Praia do Forte
Brazil
Tucano Tour
13 Nights from
£4,538
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Manaus - Tucano Amazon River Cruise - Salvador
Discover the wonders of Brazil - Rio de Janeiro, the awesome Iguassu Falls, colonial Salvador and enjoy a 4-night Amazon River cruise
Route
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Manaus - Tucano Amazon River Cruise - Salvador
Brazil
Tamboril Tour
12 Nights from
£3,348
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Manaus - Amazon Lodge - Salvador
An introduction to the Highlights of Brazil on a journey to modern, cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro, the magnificent Iguassu Waterfalls, the Amazon rainforest and Salvador colonia…
Route
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Manaus - Amazon Lodge - Salvador