The region has surpassed Fernando de Noronha, according to the 2025 Luxury Trends Yearbook, produced by consulting and research firms in the luxury travel market.
Lençóis Maranhenses has dethroned Fernando de Noronha, which traditionally topped the preferences of high-income travelers. This title is yet another major achievement for the region, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July of this year.
The study surveyed more than 3,200 individuals with a monthly income exceeding 20 minimum wages, revealing that 8.5% of respondents plan to visit Maranhão in the coming months.
Experts say the rise of Lençóis Maranhenses in the luxury tourism segment is not only due to its breathtaking natural beauty but also improvements in local infrastructure, such as the construction of high-end hotels and resorts.
Some developments in the area received investments exceeding R$ 100 million, reflecting the growing interest from the private sector in meeting this demand and attracting the most discerning tourists.
Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism recently announced investments to improve mobility in the Park, including plans for better transportation systems, mapping trails for motorized and non-motorized use, such as trekking and cycling. The goal is to support sustainable tourism growth aligned with the environmental protection guidelines established by ICMBio, the agency responsible for the region.
This paradise, once considered a “hidden gem,” is now attracting visitors from Brazil and around the world who are captivated by its unique beauty.
Where is it?
The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is located in Maranhão state, in northeastern Brazil.
How to get there:
The closest airport is in São Luís (SLZ), about 250 km away. From there, travelers can take buses, private transfers, or flights to nearby towns like Barreirinhas, the main gateway to the park.
Best time to visit:
From May to August, when the lagoons are full from the rainy season, creating the park’s stunning landscape of clear-water pools and dunes.
What to do:
- Explore the dunes and lagoons on guided tours
- Go trekking or cycling on mapped trails
- Take boat rides along the Preguiças River
- Visit nearby villages like Atins and Santo Amaro
- Experience local cuisine and culture
Check out our Complete Guide to Lençóis Maranhenses!
In second place among Brazilians’ “dream destinations” is the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, with 8.1% of mentions, followed by Amazonas, Bonito (MS), Jalapão (TO), Natal (RN), Fortaleza (CE), and the Pantanal.
Overall, the report highlights a growing demand for exotic and less-explored destinations.
And you, what is your dream destination in Brazil?
