Can you swim in Lençóis Maranhenses? | Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, located in northeastern Brazil, is a breathtaking landscape of vast sand dunes and sparkling freshwater lagoons. Among the many activities available to visitors, swimming in these pristine lagoons is a highlight. But what makes this experience so special? Let’s dive in and find out!
Yes, you can swim in Lençóis Maranhenses, and it’s one of the most popular activities in the park. The freshwater lagoons, which form between the dunes during the rainy season from May to September, offer a unique and refreshing experience. These lagoons are typically warm and clear, providing a perfect respite from the heat.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable swim, consider the following tips:
Be Aware of the Tides: The water levels in the lagoons can fluctuate depending on the tides. For the best experience, swim during high tide when the water is at its deepest.
Protect Yourself from the Sun: The sun in Lençóis Maranhenses can be very strong. Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
Stay hydrated: There is no shade or drinking water available at the lagoons, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Respect the environment: Lençóis Maranhenses is a delicate ecosystem. Be mindful not to litter or damage the environment to help preserve its beauty for future visitors.
The unique landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses is the result of an intricate interplay of wind, rain, and rivers: Prevailing winds from the northeast carry sand from the beaches inland, forming dunes that can reach heights of up to 40 meters (130 feet), while the Parnaíba and Preguiças rivers transport sand from the continent’s interior to the coast, where it is then picked up by the wind and deposited inland. Heavy rains during the rainy season fill the spaces between the dunes with freshwater, creating the picturesque lagoons that visitors love to swim in.
Other elements also contribute to the formation of this dynamic landscape, such as:
Vegetation: Plants in the region help stabilize the dunes, preventing them from blowing away entirely.
Sea level rise: Rising sea levels expose new areas of sand to the wind, contributing to the continuous formation of new dunes.
Swimming in the lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses is a truly unforgettable experience. The combination of crystal-clear water, towering sand dunes, and the ever-changing landscape makes it a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers. Remember to follow the tips above to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, and take the time to appreciate the unique beauty of this remarkable national park. Whenever you are ready, SouthQuest is ready to guide you through this surreal paradise on Earth!
Co-founder, Naturalist Guide & Tour Leader
Ricardo Casarin has been leading tours in Brazil since 1998 and is one of Brazil’s most respected naturalist guides. Specializing in Natural History, Birdwatching, and Nature Photography tours, his expertise covers biomes such as the Pantanal, the Amazon, the Atlantic Rainforest, the Caatinga, and the Cerrado (the Brazilian Savanna). Ricardo also coordinates and leads tours through Chilean and Argentine Patagonia. He is co-author of the book “Tourism Guide in Natural Areas.”
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