Located at the edge of the stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Atins is a small fishing village that has become one of the most fascinating gateways to explore Brazil’s natural wonders. Isolated between dunes, lagoons, and the Atlantic Ocean, Atins offers visitors a unique combination of serenity and adventure. Whether you’re planning a kitesurf trip or simply want to experience the raw beauty of northeast Brazil, this remote destination is worth the journey.
Reaching Atins, however, requires some planning. There are no direct roads leading to the village, and the trip involves a mix of car, boat, and sometimes 4×4 transfers through sandy paths and rivers. But it’s exactly this sense of remoteness that makes the place so special — every mile you travel brings you closer to an untouched corner of the Lençóis Maranhenses.
Read more: Atins Village, a hidden gem at Lençóis Maranhenses
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about how to get to Atins through Barreirinhas — the most common access point. From transportation options and travel times to essential tips for organizing your route, this guide will help you plan your visit with confidence and make the most of your experience in this remote paradise.
Where Is Atins Located?
Atins is located in the northeastern Brazilian state of Maranhão, at the mouth of the Preguiças River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. It lies within the protected area of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, about 290 kilometers from São Luís, the state capital. Because of its location surrounded by dunes and rivers, the village is only accessible by boat or 4×4 vehicles.
How to Get to Atins: A complete guide through Barreirinhas
Step One: Arriving in Barreirinhas
Most visitors start their journey to Atins in Barreirinhas, the main tourist base for exploring the Lençóis Maranhenses. To get there, you’ll first need to reach São Luís, which is served by Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (SLZ).
From São Luís, the road trip to Barreirinhas takes about four to four hours. You can travel by:
- Shared van or bus: Departing daily from the airport or city center, this is the most affordable option.
- Private transfer: Offers more comfort and flexibility, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or arriving at night.
- Rental car: Allows you to explore nearby attractions at your own pace, but keep in mind that you’ll have to leave it in Barreirinhas, as cars cannot reach Atins.
Once in Barreirinhas, you’ll find a good selection of hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies. Many travelers choose to spend a night here before continuing on to Atins early the next morning.
Traveller Tip: book everything in advance!
Step Two: The Journey from Barreirinhas to Atins
The second part of the trip — from Barreirinhas to Atins — is where the adventure truly begins. There are two main ways to make the journey: by boat along the Preguiças River or by 4×4 vehicle through the dunes and sand tracks.
1. By Boat (the Most Scenic and Confortable Option)
The boat trip from Barreirinhas to Atins is one of the most popular and scenic routes. Departing from the river port, small speedboats known as voadeiras take passengers along the winding Preguiças River. The journey lasts about one hour and offers beautiful views of mangroves, palm trees, and riverside villages such as Vassouras and Mandacaru.
Boats usually depart in the morning or early afternoon, depending on the tides. Many agencies combine this transfer with a half-day tour, stopping at local communities along the way before reaching Atins.
2. By 4×4 Vehicle (for Adventurous Travelers)
If you prefer a land route, it’s possible to go by 4×4. The trip takes roughly two hours and crosses sandy trails and small rivers, offering a different perspective of the Lençóis region. Only experienced drivers or local guides should attempt this route, as the terrain can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
When to Visit Atins
The best time to visit Atins depends on what you’re looking for. From July to September, the lagoons of the Lençóis Maranhenses are full and the weather is ideal for exploring. Between October and April, the winds attract kitesurfers from around the world, turning the village into a hub for the sport.
Essential Tips Before You Go
- Bring cash: There are no ATMs in Atins, and a bunch of establishments may not accept cards.
- Pack light: You’ll likely travel by boat or 4×4, so compact luggage is best.
- Book transfers in advance: Schedules depend on tides and weather conditions.
- Stay connected: Internet access is limited; download maps and key information beforehand.
Reaching Atins may take time and planning, but the effort pays off once you arrive. The combination of dunes, river, sea, and tranquility creates a rare atmosphere that few places in the world can offer. Whether you’re exploring the lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses, learning kitesurfing, or simply watching the sunset by the sea, Atins is a destination that rewards every traveler who makes the journey.
