Skim mangrove-lined channels to village markets, climb the Preguiças Lighthouse for sweeping views, then relax where the river meets the Atlantic at Caburé Beach. This easy boat tour from Barreirinhas combines wildlife, lagoons and authentic coastal culture.
Skim mangrove-lined channels to village markets, climb the Preguiças Lighthouse for sweeping views, then relax where the river meets the Atlantic at Caburé Beach. This easy boat tour from Barreirinhas combines wildlife, lagoons and authentic coastal culture.
The boat slips away from the quay and the river takes the lead — mangrove roots blur into dunes, and the water glints like a moving road to the sea. On a typical Preguiças River tour from Barreirinhas you spend the morning skimming calm channels, disembarking at small riverside villages, and watching capuchin monkeys inspect the canopy while locals tend craft stalls.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by MOVE TOUR MARANHAO · Barreirinhas, Maranhão
The boat slips away from the quay and the river takes the lead — mangrove roots blur into dunes, and the water glints like a moving road to the sea. On a typical Preguiças River tour from Barreirinhas you spend the morning skimming calm channels, disembarking at small riverside villages, and watching capuchin monkeys inspect the canopy while locals tend craft stalls.
Geologically the river carves a contrast: soft coastal dunes from the Lençóis Maranhenses meet black, tannin-stained river water and saltier tidal flats where the Preguiças finally negotiates the Atlantic. The area’s lighthouse at Mandacaru—climbable for panoramic views—was built to guide fishermen and remains a cultural waypoint for communities whose livelihoods blend artisanal fishing and tourism.
Expect stops at Vassouras for wildlife and lagoon swims in the rainy months, a stroll through Mandacaru’s craft shops and lighthouse climb, and a final stretch to Caburé Beach where the river kisses the sea. Local flavors appear in caipirinhas and unusual ice-cream scoops sold by beachside vendors.
Practically: tours run about 2½–3 hours, most are family-friendly and require little physical exertion beyond boarding the boat and a short lighthouse ascent. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, cash for small purchases, and a quick-dry change of clothes. Follow guides’ instructions for swimming and docking — currents can shift near the river mouth. This is a low-impact, sensory-rich journey best enjoyed with respect for wildlife and local rhythms.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short walks and a climb up a lighthouse with steps.
The motorboat ride is about 40 minutes from the boarding point to Vassouras, with additional short legs between stops.
Yes — in the rainy season lagoons are fuller and suitable for swimming; follow the guide’s direction about safe spots and currents.
The Preguiças Lighthouse requires climbing a set of stairs; it’s a moderate effort but manageable for most visitors with basic mobility.
Lunch is not usually included; the tour stops at beachside restaurants where you can buy lunch, so bring cash or card for purchases.
The Preguiças River region has long supported small fishing and craft communities; the lighthouse at Mandacaru dates to coastal navigation needs from the late 19th–20th centuries.
The area sits adjacent to Lençóis Maranhenses ecosystems — avoid littering, don’t feed wildlife, and use reef-safe products to reduce impacts on mangroves and tidal flats.
MOVE TOUR MARANHAO operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The boat slips away from the quay and the river takes the lead — mangrove roots blur into dunes, and the water glints like a moving road to the sea. On a typical Preguiças River tour from Barreirinhas you spend the morning skimming calm channels, disembarking at small riverside villages, and watching capuchin monkeys inspect the canopy while locals tend craft stalls.
The boat slips away from the quay and the river takes the lead — mangrove roots blur into dunes, and the water glints like a moving road to the sea. On a typical Preguiças River tour from Barreirinhas you spend the morning skimming calm channels, disembarking at small riverside villages, and watching capuchin monkeys inspect the canopy while locals tend craft stalls.
Geologically the river carves a contrast: soft coastal dunes from the Lençóis Maranhenses meet black, tannin-stained river water and saltier tidal flats where the Preguiças finally negotiates the Atlantic. The area’s lighthouse at Mandacaru—climbable for panoramic views—was built to guide fishermen and remains a cultural waypoint for communities whose livelihoods blend artisanal fishing and tourism.
Expect stops at Vassouras for wildlife and lagoon swims in the rainy months, a stroll through Mandacaru’s craft shops and lighthouse climb, and a final stretch to Caburé Beach where the river kisses the sea. Local flavors appear in caipirinhas and unusual ice-cream scoops sold by beachside vendors.
Practically: tours run about 2½–3 hours, most are family-friendly and require little physical exertion beyond boarding the boat and a short lighthouse ascent. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, cash for small purchases, and a quick-dry change of clothes. Follow guides’ instructions for swimming and docking — currents can shift near the river mouth. This is a low-impact, sensory-rich journey best enjoyed with respect for wildlife and local rhythms.