Discover the Beauty of Brazil’s North-Eastern Coastline
Discover the diverse ecosystems of northern Brazil on this memorable journey through rivers, dunes and coastal landscapes. From mangrove lined waterways to vast sand dune systems shaped by wind and water, this itinerary showcases a region where nature sets the pace and scenery changes dramatically from one day to the next.
Following the celebrated Route of Emotions, your journey begins in the historic city of São Luís, known for its colonial architecture and cultural heritage. Travel onwards through the waterways of the Rio Preguiças and the Delta do Parnaíba, where intricate channels, islands and mangroves support rich wildlife and traditional riverside communities. Along the way, explore the striking dunes and seasonal lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, climbing sweeping sands and cooling off in clear freshwater pools.
Your adventure concludes in Jericoacoara, a relaxed coastal town backed by dunes and wide beaches. Spend time unwinding by the sea, enjoying gentle walks, coastal views and a slower rhythm of life. Blending natural contrasts with cultural character, this journey offers a rewarding exploration of one of Brazil’s most distinctive regions.
Explore the gems of the North-Eastern Coastline
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
10 breakfasts
Tours and journeys included as below
What you'll experience
- Wander through the colourful and historic streets of São Luís: Explore tiled facades, colonial architecture and lively plazas shaped by a rich blend of Portuguese and Afro Brazilian heritage.
- Discover the vast mangrove forests of the Rio Preguiças: Travel along calm waterways bordered by dense mangroves, home to birdlife and traditional riverside communities.
- Explore the dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park: Walk across sweeping sandscapes dotted with seasonal freshwater lagoons that transform the landscape throughout the year.
- Weave through the many islands of the Delta do Parnaíba by speedboat: Navigate a maze of channels, islands and mangroves in one of the Americas’ largest river deltas.
- Unwind for three nights in the coastal town of Jericoacoara: Relax on wide beaches, watch the sun dip below the dunes and enjoy the easy going atmosphere of this much loved seaside escape.
What's Included
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International flights
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9 nights’ accommodation
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9 breakfasts
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Rio Preguiças speedboat river tour
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4 x 4 half-day tour of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
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Speedboat tour of the Delta do Parnaíba
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Transfers and ferry rides as per itinerary
Prices from £4,799 pp*
Excludes:
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Meals not indicated in your itinerary
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Local departure taxes payable locally
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Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc
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Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)
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Camera or video fees at any sites
Quick Itinerary
National Parks and Sand Dunes 13-Day Itinerary
Days 1 - 2 UK - São Luís
After your flight from the UK, arrive in São Luís and transfer to your centrally located hotel. We recommend you spend the rest of your day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed, with its cobbled streets and colourful colonial mansions.
Day 3 Santo Amaro
Today you will journey from São Luís to Santo Amaro, a sleepy town located on the edge of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. The 1500 sq km national park is simply stunning with countless dunes spreading almost impossibly across the landscape. At certain times of the year, crystal clear lagoons are formed in the basin of the dune-made valleys. You’ll have a later afternoon excursion into the park.
Days 4 - 5 Barreirinhas / Atins
On your way to Atins, you will stop off at Barreirinhas, scenically located on the banks of the Rio Preguiças, where you will embark on a speedboat adventure to explore the many sites along the river. Pass expansive vegetation of palm trees and mangrove forests and the hamlets of locals who live upon the riverbanks.
The boat ride will finish at the fishing village of Mandacaru, noted for its colonial lighthouse. After disembarking you will carry on to Atins where you will spend the next two nights.
After a morning at leisure in Atins, you will head out in a 4x4 to visit Lençóis Maranhenses National Park from the other side to Santo Amaro.
Days 6 - 7 Parnaíba
On day 6 you’ll transfer to Parnaíba. This small city is known for its colonial architecture, waterfront area with ruins and a Museum of the Sea, boutique shops and great restaurants.
On your second day head out by speedboat through the incredible Delta do Parnaíba, a complex ecosystem and web of islands, deserted beaches and high sand dunes which exemplify the extraordinary diversity of this part of the world. You will have time to stop and climb the dunes at Morro do Meio then as the sun starts to set, you’ll witness large flocks of bright scarlet ibis coming home to roost in the trees of one of the small islands in the delta.
Day 8 Camocim
Take the short drive to the small fishing and market town of Camocim further along the coastline. Your day here is free to relax and reflect on the natural beauty of the river and dune scenery.
Days 9 - 11 Jericoacoara
Your last three nights on Brazil’s northern coast are spent in Jericoacoara. The scenery here is second to none with a seemingly endless coast of white sand beach and tropical waters, bordered by verdant parkland and towered by impressive dunes.
Day 9 is largely a travelling day to get here but that is not to say there are no highlights. The journey is beautiful, passing by numerous dunes, fishing towns and pristine beaches and you will arrive well in time to watch the sunset over Jericoacoara.
The following day is an exciting one! Travel around by beach buggy to explore some of Jeri's stunning scenery and lagoons, with time for swimming and relaxing. Your final day has been left free for you to wander the sandy streets with their boutique shops and laid back restaurants, relax by the pool or why not try your hand at wind surfing.
Days 12 - 13 Jericoacoara/Fortaleza - UK
You will transfer to Jericoacoara or Fortaleza airport for your onward flight to the UK.
Speak to a Brazil Holiday Specialist
All our Brazil itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our National Parks and Sand Dunes holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
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