Background

Preguiças Lighthouse: A Beacon Amidst Dunes

Ascend the Preguiças Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of dunes, river, and ocean in Maranhão's stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

4.4

The Preguiças Lighthouse, also known as Mandacaru Lighthouse, is a striking beacon in Maranhão, Brazil, offering panoramic views of the Preguiças River, the vast dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, and the Atlantic Ocean. Built in 1940, this operational lighthouse is a must-visit for its stunning scenery and historical significance.

A brief summary to Preguiças Lighthouse

  • Monday 8:30 am-11:30 am
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-11:30 am
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-11:30 am
  • Thursday 8:30 am-11:30 am
  • Friday 8:30 am-11:30 am
  • Saturday 8:30 am-11:30 am
  • Sunday 8:30 am-11:30 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the lighthouse and exploring the surrounding dunes.
  • Bring water and snacks, as amenities in the immediate area are limited.
  • Consider combining your visit with a boat tour on the Preguiças River for a comprehensive experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Boat

    The most common way to reach Preguiças Lighthouse is by boat from Barreirinhas. Several tour operators offer boat trips along the Preguiças River, which typically include stops at Vassouras, Mandacaru (where the lighthouse is located), and Caburé. The boat ride from Barreirinhas to Mandacaru takes approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour. Expect to pay around R$ 30 per person for the boat trip. Boat tours can cost between R$ 100-150 per person.

  • Public Transportation & Walking

    Alternatively, take a bus from Barreirinhas to Mandacaru village. Buses leave from the main bus station in Barreirinhas; the ride takes about 45 minutes. From Mandacaru, the lighthouse is about a 2 km walk or a short moto-taxi ride. Bus fare is approximately R$5-R$10. Moto-taxi from the village center to the lighthouse is approximately R$10-R$15.

Unlock the Best of Preguiças Lighthouse

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Preguiças Lighthouse

Rising from the village of Mandacaru, within the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, the Preguiças Lighthouse stands as a guiding light and a stunning viewpoint. Constructed in 1940, the 35-meter-high lighthouse, owned by the Brazilian Navy, provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. The lighthouse's structure is a white truncated conical concrete tower adorned with four black bands and four ribs, topped with a double gallery. A climb up the 160 steps to the top rewards visitors with unparalleled vistas. From this vantage point, you can see the meeting of the Preguiças River and the Atlantic Ocean, the expansive dunes of the Lençóis Maranhenses, and the village of Mandacaru itself. The area surrounding the lighthouse is rich in both natural beauty and local culture. Visitors can explore the nearby sandy paths that wind through the dunes or engage with the local community, who are known for their hospitality and traditional crafts. Boat tours along the Preguiças River often include a stop at the lighthouse, offering a unique perspective of this iconic structure. The lighthouse is not just a visual treat but also a gateway to understanding the maritime history and coastal communities of Maranhão.

Popular Experiences near Preguiças Lighthouse

Popular Hotels near Preguiças Lighthouse

Select Currency