Thousand Lakes Desert Travel Guide | Departing from San Luis Airport, Brazil 🏜️
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The Lençóis Maranhenses Desert (Lençóis Maranhenses), located in the Brazilian state of Maranhão, is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world with its unique white sand dunes and blue-green lakes. Every year from June to September, rainwater lakes form in the desert, attracting countless tourists to visit. The following is a detailed guide to traveling to the Thousand Lakes Desert from St. Louis Airport.
✈️ Departing from St. Louis Airport
1. Arrival in São Luís:
San Luis is the capital of the Brazilian state of Maranhão and is the only place to go to the Thousand Lakes Desert. You can arrive at Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport by international or domestic flights.
2. Transportation from the airport to the city:
• Taxi/Uber: It takes about 20-30 minutes from the airport to downtown San Luis and costs about R$50-70.
• Airport bus: There are public buses that can go from the airport to the city. The journey is longer, but the price is cheap, about 5 reais.
🚍 From San Luis to Barreirinhas
Barreirinhas is the gateway city to the Thousand Lakes Desert. Most visitors travel from San Luis to Barreirinhas and then to the Thousand Lakes Desert via local 4x4 or small boat. Here's how to get from San Luis to Barreirinhas:
1. Bus (recommended):
• Buses from San Luis to Barreirinhas are provided by companies such as Cisne Branco, with several departures per day.
• Driving time: about 4-5 hours.
• Ticket price: approximately R$ 70-90.
• Departure point: Main bus station in downtown São Luís (Rodoviária de São Luís).
2. Minivan:
• Some travel companies provide small van pick-up and drop-off services, with more flexible schedules. The journey takes about 4 hours and costs between 100-150 reais. You can book in advance at your hotel or travel agency.
3. Rent a car and drive yourself:
• The road condition from San Luis to Barreirinhas is good. Self-driving is a good option. The cost of renting a car is about 150-250 reais/day. On the way you can enjoy the rural scenery of northern Brazil.
🏖 Travel arrangements in Barreirinhas
Barreirinhas is the main base for entry into the Thousand Lakes Desert and offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels and B&Bs.
Recommended itinerary:
1. Qianhu Desert 4WD Adventure:
• This is the most classic itinerary, taking a four-wheel drive into the desert and exploring the dunes and lakes. Most tour operators offer half-day tours (approximately 4 hours) or full-day tours (approximately 8 hours).
• Tour content: Cross the rolling white sand dunes, swim in the lake during the rainy season, and fully experience the magic of nature.
• Price: Approximately 150-250 reais/person, depending on the duration of the trip and the services provided.
2. Speed boat trip to Rio Preguiças:
• Take a speedboat ride along the Preguisas River to Atins or Caburé, admiring the dense mangroves and natural scenery along the river, as well as spotting wildlife.
• Price: about 100-150 reais/person, the journey takes about 4 hours.
• Highlights: The beach by the river, experience the intersection of the river and the sea.
3. Watch the sunset:
• The sunset in Qianhu Desert is a sight that cannot be missed. When visiting the sand dunes, it is recommended to choose a high point with a wide view and watch the unpredictable colors of the dunes under the sunset.
🌟 Tips for visiting Qianhu Desert
1. Best travel season:
• June to September is the best time to visit Thousand Lakes Desert as this is the season when the rainwater lakes are full. The dry season is from November to March, and lakes may dry up.
2. Sun protection and equipment:
• The sun in the Qianhu Desert is very strong, so remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and wear light clothing. The temperature of the sand is relatively high, so it is recommended to wear sandals or beach shoes.
3. Drinking water and food:
• There are no shops in the desert, so it is recommended to bring plenty of water and some snacks in case of emergencies.
4. Accommodation options:
• Barreirinhas: There are many hotels and hostels to choose from, with prices ranging from 50-300 reais, suitable for tourists with different budgets.
• Atins: It is a small fishing village near the desert. The accommodation environment is relatively primitive, but it provides a unique desert experience and is very suitable for tourists who like natural scenery.
🌟 Travel cost overview
1. Transportation from San Luis to Barreirinhas: 100-150 reals.
2. Four-wheel drive desert adventure: 150-250 reais.
3. Speed boat tour on the Preguisas River: 100-150 reais.
4. Accommodation: 50-300 reais/night, depending on the type of accommodation.
Summarize
The unique beauty of the Thousand Lakes Desert makes it a must-visit destination in northern Brazil. After a few hours' drive from the St. Louis Airport, you'll arrive at this dreamlike natural wonder. Whether it’s desert lakes, white sand dunes, or close contact with nature, every moment in Qianhu Desert will add color to your trip.
Come and start this adventure of deserts and lakes!