Lencois Maranhenses National Park

Lencois Maranhenses National Park is located along the coastline of northeastern Brazil. The national park encompasses an area of 593.75 square miles (1,537.8 sq km).  The park runs 43 miles (70 km) along the coastline.

The Itapecuru, Munim, Parnaiba, and Peria Rivers create the natural borders of the park along with the Sao Jose Basin.  The majority of the park is comprised of rolling coastal sand dunes with layers of impermeable rock located below the dunes and valleys.  This layer of impermeable rock prevents the low spots from drainage creating natural freshwater pools from the rainfall.

As the largest field of sand dunes in South America, the rolling dunes reach heights of 32 to 65.6 feet (10 to 20 m).  This field of dunes accounts for approximately two-thirds of the park.

The park features two separate oases, known locally as restingas, that represent a unique type of coastal forest.  They are comprised of acidic, sandy, and nutrient-deprived sandy foundations that result in medium-sized trees and various shrubs that have adjusted to this challenging environment.

Along with the oases, the mangrove and dune ecosystems serve as home to four endangered species which include the scarlet ibis, the neotropical otter, the oncilla, and the West Indian manatee.  Although the park features only 133 species of varied vegetation, it is home to over 110 species of birds that nest or migrate through the park as well as 42 species of reptiles.

Photos

Lencois Maranhenses National Park Photo Gallery

Highlights

The pristine white rolling sand dunes and intermittent freshwater lagoons are spectacular and certainly serve as one of the park's highlights. The pools display varied colors of blue.  The serenity of the landscape is mesmerizing and it is recognized as the largest field of sand dunes in South America.

The park is a great place for visitors to get outdoors and experience a different and unique facet of the world of nature.  Birdwatching is one of the highlights followed by outdoor activities like horseback riding and canoeing.

Lencois Maranhenses is one of the most striking destinations in Brazil.  Some argue that it is only bested by Iguacu Falls along the border of Brazil and Argentina.

Things To Do:

The park allows for hiking, swimming, canoeing, horseback riding, and surfing.  One of the favored activities is swimming and wading in the cool water after taking an active hike.

Lencois Maranhenses National Park Trails

Guided hikes are available traveling from Santo Amaro to Atins.  You can also take treks around the park with camping stops along the way.

Park Protection

Lencois Maranhenses National Park was created to protect the pristine white sand dunes, freshwater lagoons, and the ecosystem that serves as home to four different endangered species.