Barreirinhas Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and much more in Barreirinhas, Brazil. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Barreirinhas is a small town located in the state of Maranhão, on the North-Eastern coast of Brazil. This charming town has become a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, unique cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Barreirinhas has something to offer. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive travel guide to Barreirinhas, so you can plan your trip with ease.

Introduction to Barreirinhas

Barreirinhas is known as the gateway to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, which boasts miles of white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. The town itself has a population of just under 30,000 people and is located on the banks of the Preguiças River. During the high season, the town comes to life with an array of affordable restaurants, shops, and bars. It’s also a great opportunity to experience local culture and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Barreirinhas

There are plenty of places to visit when exploring Barreirinhas, from museums and natural attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic sights. Here are some of the must-see locations.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Barreirinhas is known for its rich cultural history and boasts several museums and historical attractions. One of the most famous is the Casa de Pedra, an old stone house that once served as a prison. Today, it’s a museum that provides visitors with a glimpse into the town’s fascinating history.

Other cultural attractions worth visiting include the Museu do Rio Preguiças, a museum that showcases local art, history, and culture. The Capela de Nossa Senhora das Dores, a quaint church located in the heart of the town, is also a must-visit destination for those interested in the local history and architecture.

Natural Attractions of Barreirinhas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

When it comes to natural attractions, Barreirinhas has plenty to offer. One of the most famous attractions is the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, home to miles of white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. Visitors can explore the park on foot, or take a guided tour to experience all the park has to offer.

Another natural attraction to visit is the Rio Preguiças, a beautiful river that flows through the town. Visitors can take a boat tour down the river, which includes stops at nearby villages and natural attractions such as Vassouras and Mandacaru.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barreirinhas

The area surrounding Barreirinhas provides ample opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes through the dunes. Visitors can also rent bikes and explore the surrounding countryside on their own.

Best Things to Do in Barreirinhas: Activities and Tours

In addition to exploring the natural and cultural attractions of Barreirinhas, visitors can also partake in a range of activities and tours. Some of the most popular include:

  • Kayaking down the Rio Preguiças
  • Sandboarding in the dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
  • Horseback riding through the beautiful countryside surrounding Barreirinhas
  • Day trips to Santo Amaro, a nearby town that also features sand dunes and lagoons
  • Stargazing in the park’s camping area

Week-Long Itinerary for Barreirinhas

If you’re planning to spend a week in Barreirinhas, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the town of Barreirinhas and visit cultural attractions
  • Day 2: Take a guided tour of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
  • Day 3: Rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside
  • Day 4: Take a boat tour down the Rio Preguiças and explore nearby villages
  • Day 5: Experience outdoor activities such as sandboarding or kayaking
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to Santo Amaro
  • Day 7: Relax and stargaze in the camping area of the park

Food and Drink Scene of Barreirinhas

Barreirinhas is renowned for its delicious food and drink scene, which features both local and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arroz de cuxá, a traditional Maranhão dish made with rice, onions, garlic, dried shrimp, and a paste made from the local vinagreira plant.
  • Tapioca, a delicious breakfast dish made with cassava starch and filled with cheese, meat, or sweet toppings.
  • Peixe grelhado, grilled fish served with a variety of sides such as rice, beans, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça, a popular Brazilian spirit that is often added to cocktails.
  • Guaraná, a soft drink made from the native Guaraná berry.
  • Caipirinha, a refreshing cocktail made with cachaça, sugar, and lime juice.

Where to Stay in Barreirinhas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Barreirinhas offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. The town is home to several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that offer comfortable and affordable rooms. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Pousada Encantes do Nordeste
  • Pousada Portas da Amazônia
  • Pousada Só Alegria

What to Buy in Barreirinhas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Barreirinhas has a range of local products and souvenirs to bring back home. Some of the best items to purchase include:

  • Handicrafts made by local artisans, such as embroidered towels and hammocks.
  • Local spices and condiments, such as the tucupi sauce.
  • Brazilian swimwear and beachwear at affordable prices.

Local Culture and Customs of Barreirinhas

Barreirinhas is a town with a rich cultural heritage that visitors should seek to understand and appreciate. They are known for their vibrant music and dance scene, and their cuisine that showcases a variety of flavors unique to Maranhão.

Best Time to Visit Barreirinhas

The best time to visit Barreirinhas is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, visitors can access more areas of the park, and the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barreirinhas

Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when visiting Barreirinhas:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture
  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for outdoor activities
  • Apply sunscreen regularly to protect from the strong sun rays

Don’t:

  • Litter in the park or surrounding areas
  • Ignore park rules and regulations
  • Swim in the lagoons if you have any open wounds, to avoid infections

Safety and Health

When traveling to Barreirinhas, visitors should prioritize their safety and health. Here are some tips to help keep you safe and healthy:

Safety in Barreirinhas

  • Avoid walking alone, especially at night
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place and out of sight
  • Follow park rules and regulations

Health in Barreirinhas

  • Drink bottled water or use a good quality water filter
  • Use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito bites
  • Seek medical attention if required

Getting to Barreirinhas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Barreirinhas is accessible by air, bus, and car. Visitors can fly into the São Luís International Airport and travel the remaining 260 kilometers by car or bus. There are also several bus routes that connect the town with the surrounding cities, including São Luís, Teresina, and Fortaleza.

Airports Near Barreirinhas

  • São Luís International Airport (SLZ), located approximately 262 km from Barreirinhas

Bus Stations Near Barreirinhas

  • São Luís Rodoviária, located approximately 250 km from Barreirinhas

Other Options

  • Private transfer: hire a private car or van from São Luís to Barreirinhas.

How to Get Around in Barreirinhas

The town of Barreirinhas is small and easy to navigate on foot. However, for those who prefer greater comfort or are exploring the surrounding areas, there are several options available such as car rental or hiring a buggy or quad bike.

Where to Go Next from Barreirinhas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Barreirinhas is a great base from which to explore other nearby destinations and excursions. Some of the most popular places to visit include Atins Beach and Santo Amaro, both of which offer spectacular landscapes that are unique to the region.

Conclusion

Barreirinhas is a charming town that offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. Whether you are exploring the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, relaxing on Atins beach, or learning about the local culture in the town itself, there is something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Barreirinhas with ease and make the most out of your visit.

Preguiças Lighthouse Preguiças Lighthouse