Speed boating through sand dunes

Relaxed and chill boat ride through the jungles, swimming in the sand lagoons, small villages, and local food. Honestly, it is nothing special per se; but speed rafting through the river is really fun; and the seafood cooked – just divine. The tour takes around 7 hours and includes quite a bunch of different things. On the boring side – detailed dive on the varieties of local fauna and history of the town’s lighthouse. On the exciting side – swimming in the sand lagoons and quads cycling on the isolated beach, with Atlantic ocean right at your footstep.

What to know: at the second stop, Mandacarú village, cut the time on shopping and lighthouse. Instead – head back to the peer to sample caipirinhas with locals. You can choose amongst the dozen of flavours (traditional lemon is the best), while listening to the music and chilling by the water. Amazing afternoon guaranteed.

When to go: generally any time is fine, although do bear in mind that swimming in lagoons is only possible in the rainy season (May to September).

How to book: search for Rio Preguicas tour. Use the local agency: foreign ones charge at least four times the price. Expect to spend around 20USD per person, and if the price is not an issue – pay slightly more for a private tour. The boats leave from Barreirinhas, and there are generally plenty of small tour providers in town – I’ve booked with these guys, and has a great experience. Do leave an extra few days to explore the Lencois park and surroundings – the place is absolutely stunning.