Northeast Coast

Luxury Lençóis Maranhenses & Jericoacoara Travel

Situated in remote northeastern Brazil, UNESCO-designated Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a broad swath of sand dunes hemmed by the Atlantic Ocean, attracting travelers with its otherworldly beauty. With the arrival of winter rains (June through September), water pools in the depressions, creating a vast span of gem-colored lagoons that stretch across an endless horizon. The contrast between the powder-white sand and crystal-clear freshwater creates a sublime, dreamlike setting. Take a dip in the lagoons, explore the area on guided quad tours, go hiking, and point your camera in any direction to snap mesmerizing photos. Add an optional scenic flight to fully appreciate the dazzling expanse of the dunes.

Given Lençóis Maranhense’s far-flung locale, travelers often continue east along the dune-strewn northeastern coast, onward to remote Jericoacoara. The journey is an adventurous few days that involves a speed boat ride up the snaking Preguicas River, visits to local fishing communities, swimming in the Parnaiba Delta, and learning about seahorse conservation.

An Epic Northeastern Brazil trip ends in Jericoacoara, a small fishing village ensconced by national park, “Jeri’s” flawless beaches attract kitesurfers, windsurfers, and sunseekers. A laid-back vibe is felt underfoot, where the streets are paved with sand. The town eschews street lighting giving it a distinct coastal castaway feel. Explore the area on a joyful buggy tour, calling on Pedra Furada (a hulking, oceanfront stone arch) and then visiting Blue and Paradise Lagoons. Adventurous travelers might take an introductory kite surfing lesson. Be sure to dedicate one evening to Sunset Dune to admire a dusky sky painted in broad strokes of orange and pink, and then catch capoeira on the beach.