When we think of Brazil, the first things that come to mind are its tropical beaches, its vibrant atmosphere and its people. But there’s a lesser-known and absolutely fascinating side: sand tourism. We’re talking about walking through dunes, exploring tropical deserts, sliding down the sand on a board, and discovering hidden lagoons between mountains of white grains.
Yes, Brazil is also that. And here at BrazilGreenTravel, we’ll tell you all about sand tourism in Brazil.
What is sand tourism?
It’s not just about going to the beach. Sand tourism includes landscapes dominated by Brazilian sand dunes, dry or semi-arid ecosystems, and outdoor activities built around these environments: from buggy rides to sandboarding, from hiking to swimming in rain-formed lagoons.
The best part? Brazil offers vastly different landscapes with sand as the main feature.
Lençóis Maranhenses: the desert that floods
Imagine flying over a sea of white dunes suddenly dotted with turquoise lagoons. It’s not a mirage: it’s the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, in the state of Maranhão.
Unlike typical deserts, it actually rains here. Between January and June, rainwater fills the valleys between dunes, creating thousands of natural pools. From June to September, they reach their peak beauty, shimmering under the sun. When the dry season returns between October and December, the lagoons gradually disappear, leaving behind a landscape of endless white sand.
The best time to visit is from June to September, when the pools are full and the contrast between white sand and blue water is simply out of this world. Walking barefoot across the soft dunes, swimming in warm lagoons like Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita, and watching the sunset over the sand are unforgettable moments. Around the park, cities like Barreirinhas and small communities like Atins and Santo Amaro offer local inns, fresh seafood, and the relaxed rhythm of life by the dunes.
The Route of Emotions connects Lençóis Maranhenses to the Parnaíba Delta and Jericoacoara, forming one of Brazil’s most scenic journeys across landscapes of sand and sea. To learn more about this unique itinerary, visit our guide to Lençóis Maranhenses and the Route of Emotions.
Adrenaline in the sand
For travelers who crave action, sand can be the stage for incredible adventures. The consistent winds that sweep across the coasts of Maranhão, Piauí and Ceará make places like Barra Grande, Jericoacoara, and Atins perfect for kitesurfing and wind sports between August and December. In the very same places, the dunes invite on-land thrills too, with guided treks and 4×4 routes across shifting sands. The mix of sand, shallow water and steady breeze creates a natural playground for every pace.
Among Brazil’s most iconic dunes adventures is Genipabu, in Rio Grande do Norte. Buggy rides across the sand are famous for two styles: “with emotion,” which means fast runs and steep drops, or “without emotion,” for a smoother circuit. Both deliver wide views of golden dunes meeting the ocean.
Further south, Joaquina Beach in Santa Catarina is a long-time hub for sandboarding. Local operators rent boards and maintain sliding areas where you can practice safely on sandy slopes.
Inland, the Jalapão region in Tocantins stands out for its orange dunes and the famous fervedouros, natural pools with strong upward water pressure where you float effortlessly. It is more remote than the coastal hubs and reveals another face of Brazil’s sandy landscapes.
Sand tourism destinations to unplug
Not everything in sand tourism is about action. In many of these destinations, the dunes invite you to slow down. Sunrise walks across cool sand, quiet swims in clear lagoons, or afternoons resting in hammocks are part of the rhythm of life here. It’s easy to trade a day of kitesurfing for a peaceful one watching the light shift over the dunes.
Boutique inns often offer spaces for relaxation, wellness treatments, and local gastronomy paired with the sound of the wind. Along the coast, smaller destinations like Trairi and Piaçabuçu also carry this same spirit of tranquility, ideal for travelers seeking rest and nature connection.
Tips for your sandy adventure
- Wear light clothing. On days of stronger sun exposure, choose long-sleeved pieces and fabrics with UV protection.
- Choose open hiking sandals (like Teva) and long socks made of synthetic materials such as polyamide to protect your feet and improve mobility on long dune walks. Polyamide socks dry quickly, reduce moisture, and prevent blisters better than cotton.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun on the Brazilian dunes can be intense. Choose a hat with a strap to keep it secure, since the wind can be strong.
- Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially during hikes.
Above all, respect nature. Dunes may seem endless, but they are fragile ecosystems that deserve care.
Sand tourism in Brazil offers a rare mix of energy and calm, an invitation to explore the country from a different perspective. Because Brazil isn’t just samba and caipirinhas. It’s also wind, silence, dunes, water and sun, sometimes all in one place.
Follow Brazil Green Travel
Ready to discover Brazil’s landscapes of sand and light? At Brazil Green Travel, we design tailor-made itineraries that combine comfort, authenticity, and expert local knowledge.
Contact us to start planning your next adventure at ct@brazilgreentravel.com, or follow us on Instagram. Your next journey begins where the dunes meet the horizon!
