Lençóis Maranhenses: Lagoa Bonita 4x4 Circuit & River Ferry

Summary

Barreirinhas 4x4 journey to Lençóis dunes and Lagoa Bonita swim

You’ll cross the Preguiças River by ferry from Barreirinhas before bouncing through sandy tracks in a 4x4 with your local guide. Climb barefoot up warm dunes to reach Lagoa Bonita’s clear waters — then float or swim as long as you want while sunlight shifts across endless sand. It’s a day where silence feels like part of the landscape.

What’s the experience like?

First thing you notice is the dust — Barreirinhas has this sleepy air in the morning, but once we piled into the 4x4, everything felt awake. Our driver, Paulo, had this habit of humming old forró songs under his breath. We bumped along for about an hour (maybe less? I lost track), passing little houses with painted doors. Then suddenly we were at the Preguiças River, waiting for the ferry. The water smelled faintly brackish and someone was selling coconut water from a cooler. I almost bought one just to have something cold in my hands.

After we crossed, it got quieter except for the engine and the wind. The park is huge — like 155 thousand hectares or something wild like that — but it’s not empty. At the edge of the dunes there were a few other cars, some locals chatting in that soft Maranhão accent. Our guide Ana pointed at the sand and said, “It’s only twenty meters up,” which sounded easy until I actually started climbing. My shoes filled with sand in seconds; I gave up and went barefoot halfway. At the top: Lagoa Bonita just sitting there, blue-green and weirdly calm. I didn’t expect to feel so small looking out over those ripples.

I waded in right away — water cool on my skin, sun already hot but not burning yet. There was this moment when everyone got quiet at once; just wind on water and our own breathing. Ana laughed at how long I floated there without saying anything (she called me ‘peixe’). It’s funny what sticks with you — not just the view but how it felt to be weightless for a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 4x4 ride and Lagoa Bonita visit

• Depart Barreirinhas by 4x4
• Cross Preguiças River by ferry
• Drive to dunes parking area
• Climb 20m to Lagoa Bonita
• Free time for sunbathing and swimming

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Barreirinhas to Lagoa Bonita?

The drive from Barreirinhas takes about one hour by 4x4 before reaching the dunes near Lagoa Bonita.

Is transport included on this tour?

Yes, transport by 4x4 vehicle is included from Barreirinhas.

Do you have to climb dunes to reach Lagoa Bonita?

Yes, there is a short climb of about 20 meters up sandy dunes before reaching Lagoa Bonita.

Is there time to swim in Lagoa Bonita?

Yes, after arriving you’ll have free time for swimming and relaxing at Lagoa Bonita.

Are guides provided during the tour?

A local guide accompanies you throughout the circuit and dune walk.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is this suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The dune climb may be challenging for those with poor cardiovascular health or limited mobility.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Barreirinhas by 4x4 vehicle, all river crossings by ferry, guidance from a local expert throughout the journey, and plenty of time to swim or relax at Lagoa Bonita before returning home sandy and sun-warmed.