Do you need to be fit to trek across the Lençóis?

This is the question that holds a lot of people back. The honest answer: it depends on the tour, and there's an option for almost everyone.

What makes this hike different

Walking on soft sand burns more energy than walking on pavement or a firm trail. Add to that the strong sun and the lack of shade. On the other hand, the terrain is flat: no mountain climbs, no scrambling, no exposure.

In practice, what wears you down is the time under the sun and the weight of your pack, not the technical difficulty.

The levels, in practice

Easy. Up to 16 km split over two days, with plenty of stops for a swim. Good for anyone who walks now and then and is willing to face the heat. That's the case with A Night in the Oasis and the camping version.

Moderate to intense. From 30 to 37 km over two or three days, with stretches of 12 to 14 km in a single day. Here it helps to already be in the habit of walking. That's the case with the Bonita Trail and the Classic Crossing.

Hard. From 55 to 65 km over five days, with long days and early morning starts. It requires fitness and some trekking experience. That's the case with the Traditional Crossing and Lençóis Radical, which also includes 15 km of kayaking on the last day.

How to prepare in the weeks before

You don't need a gym or an athlete's training. What works:

1. Walk. Two or three times a week, gradually building up until you can comfortably do about 10 km straight.
2. Walk with the backpack you'll bring, loaded with weight. Your body needs to know that beforehand.
3. Wear the shoes for the trip on those walks. A blister on the trek can ruin it.
4. Get used to the sun. If you can, walk during the hot part of the day at least once.

And what if I can't handle it?

The guide adjusts the pace to the group, and we stop whenever needed. But it's worth knowing: inside the park there's no road and no quick rescue. If someone gives up partway, a 4x4 pickup is possible at a few points and comes at a cost. That's why we insist on choosing the right tour instead of the prettiest one.

Tell us how your fitness is and we'll recommend the tour honestly. Talk to the team.