This Brazilian National Park Is Known for Its Stunning Sand Dunes and Lagoons-Here's How to Experience It

"We trekked a little over 9 miles into Lençóis Maranhenses, which took about six hours with stops to swim and take in the views. Our backpacks were light, carrying only the essentials, as a support vehicle discreetly transported our luggage. As the evening arrived, the sky split in two: sunset burning on one side, while the full moon quietly rose on the other."

"After a swim in a nearby lagoon and time to relax in a hammock, we ate a traditional regional lunch followed by fresh cocada, a coconut dessert. Only after lunch did we begin our second walk, a 6.2-mile trek from the quiet, untouched region of Rancharia leading us to Lagoa das Emendadas, one of the most stunning and secluded lagoons in the entire park. This area is known for its alternating white sands and vivid blue waters, creating a surreal topographical pattern."

Journey begins in Atins, a beach village with lagoon swims, seafood lunches, and local restaurants. On day three a 4x4 drive along the beach brings hikers to the park entrance. A roughly 9-mile trek through dunes takes about six hours with swim stops while a support vehicle carries luggage. Evening presents a sunset on one horizon and a rising full moon on the other. Arrival in Patacas includes homemade dinner and simple comfortable lodgings. Morning swims, hammock time, and a traditional regional lunch with fresh cocada follow. A 6.2-mile walk from Rancharia reaches Lagoa das Emendadas with alternating white sands and vivid blue waters. A short drive leads to OIÁ Casa Lençóis in Santo Amaro.

Read at Travel + Leisure