One of South America’s most exceptional off-road adventures is the coast-hugging 4×4 journey between Jericoacoara and Sao Luis in remote northeastern Brazil. Carving a route through dunes and backwaters, across rivers and along beaches, passing a succession of attractive low-key fishing villages and out-of-the-way colonial towns, it’s a rewarding adventure that brings something new each day. Connected by a string of exquisite off-grid lodges, private houses and tented camps, it undoubtedly makes for one of South America’s most stylish and memorable road trips.
Highlights of an off-road adventure in Brazil
"Along the way, there will be opportunities to explore on foot, from the back of a horse or from a light plane."
Best done between June and August, after the rains have recharged the thousands of lakes in the vast white-sand dune sea known as the Lençois Maranhenses, it’s an adventure that can be done in a few days but ideally over the course of a week to really let you soak up the uniqueness of the place.
We’ll set you up with a 4×4 vehicle, and you’ll be fully supported with a private guide to lead the way, and a mechanic and spares to bail you out if necessary. It would be perfect to slot into an adventurous honeymoon, or you could form a private group of friends to take on the challenge together.
![Scarlet ibis flying over Parnaiba Delta](https://www.explorationscompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/parnaiba-delta-scarlet-ibis-brazil.webp)
See flocks of scarlet ibis in flight.
Along the way, there will be opportunities to explore on foot, from the back of a horse or from a light plane. Take advantage of the world’s most reliable kiteboarding conditions with a top pro to teach you. Head out with an expert naturalist guide to look for anacondas, silky anteaters and scarlet ibis in the Parnaiba Delta. Stop for a surprise gourmet lunch set up for you in the middle of the dunes, on a beach, or on a river island. And, at the end of each day, after a long and sometimes bumpy drive, the promise of cold beers, a comfortable bed and a delicious dinner beneath the stars.
Ready to take the road less travelled?