The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, in Maranhão, has been highlighted as Brazil’s top ecotourism destination to visit in 2026. This recognition reinforces the country’s position as a powerhouse in nature tourism and underscores the leading role of areas that combine environmental preservation, authentic experiences, and benefits for local communities.
The information comes from the Ministry of Tourism, based on a survey by the PlanetaEXO platform, which specializes in sustainable experiences and trips. The curation placed Lençóis Maranhenses at the top of a list featuring 15 destinations spread across different Brazilian biomes.
Following in the ranking are the Amazon, with highlights for the states of Amazonas and Pará, and the municipality of Barra do Garças, in Mato Grosso. The trio leads the preferences of travelers interested in nature, adventure, and responsible tourism practices, according to the platform’s analysis.
Considered the largest dune field in South America, the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park draws attention for its unique landscape formed by vast stretches of white sand and thousands of crystal-clear lagoons that emerge and renew according to the rainfall regime. The setting offers ideal conditions for hikes, 
crossings, and contemplative walks, providing visitors with deep immersion in nature and an experience marked by tranquility.
The PlanetaEXO selection values outdoor experiences such as trails, wildlife observation, and immersive encounters in natural territories. The approach encourages longer trips, greater connection with destinations, and positive impacts for local populations, consolidating ecotourism as a driver of sustainable development in the country.
The announcement comes at a strategic moment for Brazil’s tourism sector. In 2025, Brazil welcomed 9.2 million foreign tourists, the highest number ever recorded, which bolsters the country’s international visibility and expands the role of natural destinations in tourism growth.
The prestige of Lençóis Maranhenses was further reinforced in July 2024, when the park received the title of Natural World Heritage Site from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Among the criteria considered are the area’s exceptional beauty and its status as a unique natural phenomenon in the world.
In addition to Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil boasts seven other areas recognized as Natural World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: the Pantanal (MT/MS), Central Amazon (AM), Discovery Coast (BA/ES), Atlantic Islands complex (Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas), Iguaçu National Park (PR), Ribeira Valley (PR/SP), and the ensemble of Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Park (GO).
The full list compiled by PlanetaEXO also includes destinations such as Chapada Diamantina (BA), Jalapão and Serras Gerais (TO), Cambará do Sul (RS), Serra da Capivara (PI), Abrolhos (BA), and Fernando de Noronha (PE), reinforcing the diversity of landscapes and biomes that underpin Brazilian ecotourism.
Source: brasil247.com