Things To Do
in Barreirinhas
Barreirinhas is a small town located in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, known for its proximity to the stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. The town serves as a gateway for visitors looking to explore the unique landscape of rolling sand dunes and freshwater lagoons within the national park. Barreirinhas has a laid-back and charming atmosphere, with colorful buildings, a bustling market selling local crafts, and delicious seafood restaurants along the riverfront.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as dune buggying, boat rides along the Preguiças River, and experiencing the breathtaking sunsets over the sand dunes.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with an early visit to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons.
Explore the park further and take a refreshing dip in one of the scenic lagoons. Don’t forget to bring your lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
Return to Barreirinhas and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Sample some delicious Brazilian cuisine while reminiscing about the day's adventure.
Begin your day with an early visit to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons.
Indulge in beach activities like beach volleyball or simply enjoy a good book. Grab a fresh seafood lunch from a nearby beachside stall.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachfront dinner with a view. Savor the local seafood delicacies as you watch the sky change colors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park with its unique sand dunes and lagoons.
- Rich cultural experiences, showcasing local traditions, cuisine, and music.
- Adventure activities such as sandboarding, ATV rides, and boat tours.
- Friendly and welcoming local community with numerous opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Ideal destination for relaxing and enjoying picturesque sunsets.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to more developed tourist destinations.
- Accessibility can be challenging, as it may require multiple modes of transport to reach.
- Seasonal weather conditions can affect travel plans and accessibility to certain areas.
- Increased tourism can lead to environmental concerns and strain on local resources.
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers may complicate communication.
Best Activities in Barreirinhas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning sand dunes and pristine lagoons in this unique natural attraction.
Enjoy a scenic boat tour along the river, passing by mangroves, dunes, and small fishing villages.
Experience an adventurous ride through the vast sand dunes of the region on a quad bike.
Witness the breathtaking sunset over the Lagoa Bonita lagoon for a memorable outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Barreirinhas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Barreirinhas
Visit one of these nice places.
This national park is famous for its stunning landscapes of white sand dunes and lagoons, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The river offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great spot for capturing the natural beauty of Barreirinhas.
Food in Barreirinhas
Barreirinhas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made with rice, shrimp, and a flavorful sauce of cuxá, a tangy herb native to the region.
Must-Try!
This dish features freshly caught fish cooked over an open flame, seasoned with local spices, and served with cassava and rice.
A unique pink soda with a sweet, fruity flavor that has become an iconic beverage in the Maranhão region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Barreirinhas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The municipal market is a treasure trove of local produce, fresh seafood, and a variety of street food stalls offering delicacies like grilled meats, tapioca crepes, and acarajé.
In the evening, Rua das Preguiças comes alive with a vibrant night market showcasing an array of street food options, from grilled skewers to traditional sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Barreirinhas, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others, especially during conversations or greetings.
It is customary to acknowledge social hierarchy and show respect to elders or individuals in positions of authority. This may include using formal titles or gestures of respect.
Polite greetings and gestures, such as handshakes, are important in Barreirinhas as they indicate respect and friendliness. It's also common to use greetings like 'Bom dia' (good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (good afternoon) as a sign of courtesy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Barreirinhas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Barreirinhas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in Barreirinhas, Brazil. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or tour, it is appreciated to leave a small tip, usually around 10% of the total bill.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Barreirinhas. Some places may accept credit or debit cards, but it's always best to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller establishments and street vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Barreirinhas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season, from May to September, is considered the best time to visit Barreirinhas. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and lower chances of rain. This is also the ideal time to explore the famous Lencois Maranhenses National Park, as the lagoons inside the park are at their most stunning with crystal-clear waters.
The rainy season, from October to April, brings higher temperatures and frequent rainfall. While the landscape becomes greener, the heavy rains can cause some areas to be inaccessible. However, this season is suitable for those interested in bird watching and witnessing the blooming flora.
Barreirinhas at Night
Hiking in Barreirinhas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park known for its vast sand dunes and seasonal freshwater lagoons, perfect for hiking and exploring the unique landscape.
A charming fishing village close to Barreirinhas, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and trails leading to both dunes and lagoons.
A scenic trail that follows the Preguiças River, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
An area within the Lençóis Maranhenses that features trails through dunes and lagoons, providing breathtaking views and a unique hiking experience.
A trail leading to the serene Caburé Beach, known for its picturesque scenery and the opportunity to connect with nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Barreirinhas through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Barreirinhas by plane.
Located approximately 216 km from Barreirinhas, this is the nearest major international airport, servicing flights to various destinations within Brazil and abroad.
Situated around 300 km from Barreirinhas, this international airport in Salvador offers a range of international and domestic flights.
Approximately 570 km from Barreirinhas, this international airport operates numerous flights throughout Brazil and to other countries.
Located about 615 km from Barreirinhas, this airport provides various domestic and limited international flights.
Situated roughly 830 km from Barreirinhas, this is a major hub in the northeastern region of Brazil, with numerous domestic and international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Pardo, which includes individuals of mixed European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
A smaller segment of the population identifies as White, primarily those of European descent.
The Black demographic includes individuals of African descent, contributing to the cultural heritage of the area.
A smaller percentage of the population comprises Indigenous peoples, with distinct cultural and historical significance.
This group is very small in Barreirinhas, consisting of individuals from Asian backgrounds.
The Soul of Barreirinhas
Discover the essence of Barreirinhas through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport played on the sandy beaches of Barreirinhas, often enjoyed both recreationally and competitively.
Soccer is a beloved sport in Barreirinhas, with many local teams and community events centered around the game.
This Afro-Brazilian martial art combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music and is popular among the local community.
Exploring the dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, sandboarding is an adventurous sport that attracts both locals and tourists.
With access to rivers and the coastline, fishing is a popular activity for both recreation and sustenance among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barreirinhas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often center around fish and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Barreirinhas offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as vegetable stews, fried plantains, and tapioca-based snacks.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like fresh seafood, rice-based meals, and tapioca-based treats, which are widely available and naturally gluten-free.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Barreirinhas with these cultural adventures.
