Discover the Preguiças River on a boat tour to the charming village of Bar da Hora
Sailing along the Preguiças River in Barreirinhas is an immersion into the natural beauty of Maranhão and a journey through the resilience and way of life of local communities.
The Rota das Emoções stands out as one of Brazil’s most breathtaking and diverse itineraries. Stretching across Maranhão, Piauí, and Ceará, it offers not only stunning natural landscapes but also a deep dive into northeastern culture, fostering meaningful connections with people living in harmony with nature and preserving traditional knowledge.
In Maranhão, the town of Barreirinhas serves as the gateway to the Lençóis Maranhenses, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Yet, the region offers much more, inviting visitors to relax and discover its wonders. From Barreirinhas, boats depart to navigate the Preguiças River, heading to the village of Bar da Hora. Along the way, mesmerizing landscapes and riverside communities showcase a simple and authentic way of life.
EXPLORING THE PREGUIÇAS RIVER
The tour begins early, around 8 AM, with a speedboat departing from Barreirinhas. As you cruise along the calm waters of the Preguiças River, you’ll be surrounded by lush scenery, with palm trees and mangroves lining the banks. Your guide will share fascinating facts about the region’s flora and fauna.
Along the route, riverside villages like Vassouras, Espadarte, and Morro do Boi come into view, revealing the beaches and dunes of the Pequenos Lençóis. These small fishing communities are a testament to the coexistence of simplicity and the grandeur of nature.The first stop is the village of Mandacaru, where the iconic Preguiças Lighthouse awaits. After climbing its 160 steps, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of mangroves, rivers, and lagoons stretching to the horizon.
Next, the tour continues to the delightful Bar da Hora Village, a community known for its hospitality and sustainability practices. At Casa Novo Horizonte, visitors are introduced to the community’s biodigester systems, which transform organic waste into fertilizer. A brief visit to homes that produce organic food and raise free-range chickens, along with a tour of the women-led community garden, highlights the village’s dedication to eco-friendly living.
TIME FOR LUNCH
Lunch is a feast of Maranhão’s traditional seafood dishes. Freshly prepared delicacies like shrimp, sururu, and crab are served on a communal table, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This serene setting turns a meal into an unforgettable cultural experience. Take some time to relax and recharge!
ARTISANAL FISHING
After lunch, hop into a traditional Maranhão canoe for the next leg of the journey. This segment takes you from Bar da Hora to Prainha da Pipoca, opposite Atins beach. Along the way, you’ll observe artisanal fishing areas while the guide demonstrates traditional techniques. It’s a rich cultural moment amid stunning scenery.
BONUS EXPERIENCE: THE SCARLET IBIS FLOCKING
For an extra touch of wonder, you can extend the trip to witness the Scarlet Ibis Flocking near Atins. As the sun sets, these bright red birds fill the sky in a dazzling display—a perfect conclusion to a day full of discovery.
With this additional experience, the return to Barreirinhas is expected by late afternoon
HOW TO GET THERE
São Luís International Airport or Barreirinhas Airport.
By Bus: Cisne Branco Turismo and Expresso Guanabara offer services between São Luís and Barreirinhas.
By Car: From São Luís, take BR-135, BR-402, and MA-225 to Barreirinhas.
Caetés Expedições
Since 2010, Caetés Expedições has been curating experience and adventure tourism itineraries in the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. The aim is to highlight local traditions and showcase the unique natural beauty that can only be found in Maranhão. Visit caetesexpedicoes.com.br/ and add this unforgettable Barreirinhas experience to your itinerary today!