dune · Paulino Neves, MA
Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses
A field of dunes and seasonal lagoons protected by a state environmental protection area created in 1991. It differs from the neighboring national park in its coarser, more yellowish sand, a more indented coastline and more abundant vegetation.
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 Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses
The Pequenos Lençóis are a field of dunes and freshwater lagoons on the eastern coast of Maranhão, around Paulino Neves. The scenery resembles that of the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses, just to the west, but the area gets far fewer visitors and the lagoons are usually less crowded.
The region lies outside the national park. It's protected by a state environmental protection area created in 1991, which covers dunes, restingas (coastal scrub), mangroves and lagoons between the mouth of the Rio Preguiças and the neighboring lagoon area.
The lagoons form from rainwater that collects between the dunes. That's why the scenery changes throughout the year: there are times of full, blue lagoons and times when many of them dry up. Besides sand and water, the tour reveals coconut palms, restinga vegetation and, in some spots, the turbines of the region's wind farms.
The most common way to explore is the circuit by 4x4 or ATV, with swimming stops at the lagoons and climbs up dunes that serve as viewpoints. Some routes cross the Pequenos Lençóis to Vassouras and Caburé, on the banks of the Rio Preguiças. Walking on soft sand and climbing dunes takes some effort, and there's no shade or facilities along the way.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
The 4x4 circuit usually takes half a day; if you continue to Vassouras and Caburé, it can take the whole day.
Best time
From mid-year to September, when the lagoons are usually fullest after the rainy season. Head out early or in the late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun on the sand.
How to get there
The Pequenos Lençóis are around Paulino Neves, between Barreirinhas and Tutóia, on the Maranhão stretch of the Rota das Emoções. The town is reached by road from São Luís or from Parnaíba (Piauí), and the dunes can only be reached by 4x4 or ATV, with local agencies and drivers.
Tip
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat and light clothing, and keep your valuables protected from the sand. Check with the agency whether the route includes a swimming stop at the lagoons, since the water level changes with the season.
A look at the place
Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses 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 Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses
Are the Pequenos Lençóis part of the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses?
No. They lie outside the national park, in a state environmental protection area created in 1991, around Paulino Neves.
When is the best time to see the lagoons full in the Pequenos Lençóis?
From mid-year to September, after the rainy season. After that, many lagoons drop or dry up.
Can I visit the Pequenos Lençóis in a regular car?
No. The dunes are reached by 4x4 or ATV, usually with agencies and drivers from Paulino Neves or Barreirinhas.
How long does the Pequenos Lençóis tour take?
The circuit usually takes half a day. Routes that continue to Vassouras and Caburé can take the whole day.
Can I swim in the lagoons of the Pequenos Lençóis?
Yes, the lagoons are freshwater and swimming is part of the tours when they're full.