Paddle a 40 km stretch of the Preguiças River from Barreirinhas to Atins across two days and one night, moving between dunes, mangroves and riverside fishing villages. This self-guided kayak descent includes equipment delivery, rescue at Atins and optional GPS tracks for navigation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The river wakes slowly — glassy ribbon separating dunes from mangrove, fishermen guiding skiffs past sand teeth that push up from the shore. Launching from Barreirinhas, paddlers cut a steady wake down the Rio Preguiças, the dunes of the Pequenos Lençóis standing like pale cliffs to starboard while scattered riverine villages slide by to port.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness and upper-body endurance for sustained paddling; ability to carry a small overnight pack.
Wildlife
History
The Preguiças River corridor has long been a transport and subsistence route for riverside communities; Atins grew as a fishing and boatbuilding village tied to regional coastal trade.
Conservation
Stick to established campsites, pack out all waste and avoid disturbing mangrove roots; the dune and river ecosystem is sensitive to trampling and pollution.
Reserve your spot on the Kayaks in the Maranhenses Lençóis - Atins by Rio Preguiças today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start at first light
Wind tends to pick up mid-day; launch early to avoid headwinds and cover calmer water to reach your planned campsite,
Pack a dry change
Store spare clothes, electronics and food in a high-quality drybag; sand and spray will find open storage quickly,
Respect tides and sandbars
Observe tidal windows near the estuary and be prepared to ferry around shallow, shifting sandbars to avoid grounding,
Use local guidance
Coordinate with the outfitter for kayak delivery, luggage transfers and end-of-trip recovery in Atins to avoid being stranded,
Drybag (20–30L)
Keeps clothes, electronics and documents dry from spray and sand.
Lightweight camping sleep system
Compact sleeping pad and lightweight sleeping bag for sand-camp comfort during the night stop.
High SPF sunscreen & brimmed hat
Critical protection from prolonged sun exposure on open water and sand.
summer
Water purification (filter or tablets)
Useful if your water supply runs low and you need to top up from river or local sources.