viewpoint · Paulino Neves, MA
Morro da Mendanha
A tall dune used as a natural viewpoint, with a panoramic view over the white sand field, the beaches and the region's wind farms. It's most popular in the late afternoon, for watching the sunset.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Morro da Mendanha
Morro da Mendanha is one of the largest dunes in the Pequenos Lençóis, in Paulino Neves, on the eastern coast of Maranhão. About 60 meters high, it works as a natural viewpoint and is the best-known lookout in the municipality.
From the top, the view opens onto the dune field of the Pequenos Lençóis, the beaches of the region and the wind farms spread along the coast. The dune draws the most people in the late afternoon, to watch the sun set over the dunes.
You climb on foot, through soft sand, and it takes some stamina. There are no facilities or shade at the top. The outing is usually part of the 4x4 and ATV tours leaving from town and goes well with the other stops in the Pequenos Lençóis.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
An hour to an hour and a half is enough to climb at an easy pace, take in the scenery and wait for the sunset.
Best time
In the late afternoon, to watch the sunset from the top of the dune, with softer light and cooler sand. On very windy days, blowing sand makes the climb unpleasant.
How to get there
It's in the Pequenos Lençóis, the dune area around Paulino Neves. You get there on sand tracks, by 4x4 or ATV, on tours leaving from downtown; if you know the way, you can also walk.
Tip
Bring water, sunscreen and a flashlight if you're staying until dark, because walking back across the sand gets hard once the sun goes down.
A look at the place
Morro da Mendanha in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Morro da Mendanha
How tall is Morro da Mendanha?
The dune is about 60 meters high and is one of the largest in the Pequenos Lençóis, in Paulino Neves.
What's the best time to visit Morro da Mendanha?
Late afternoon, to watch the sunset from the top of the dune. It's the most popular time.
How do I get to Morro da Mendanha?
Along the sand tracks of the Pequenos Lençóis, on 4x4 or ATV tours leaving from Paulino Neves. You can also walk.
Is the climb difficult?
It takes some effort, because you climb on foot through soft sand. It's not recommended for people with limited mobility.
What can you see from the top of Morro da Mendanha?
The dune field of the Pequenos Lençóis, the region's beaches and the wind farms along the coast.