Ilha do Caju

Ila do Caju is a private nature reserve in Maranhão.

Ilha do Caju is a private ecological reserve and island located in the Delta do Parnaíba estuary system, belonging administratively to the municipality of Araioses in the state of Maranhão. Situated in northeastern Brazil, part of the Parnaíba Delta wetlands on the border of Maranhão and Piauí. Features a mix of white-sand dunes, mangroves, freshwater lagoons, and dry tropical forests. Operated largely as a private natural heritage reserve.

Easiest access from Parnaíba in the neighbouring state of Piauí, while Tutóia is an alternative. Both require the hiring of a motor launch with a crew at around R$ 400 (up to 5 people). Visits must often be scheduled as much as 5 days in advance, and can sometimes be easier done through a travel agent in Parnaíba than directly with the resort itself. As a rule, you will be denied access unless you book at least one night.

Mangrove, dunes, river arms, birds....

Horseback riding.

A restaurant by the lodgings.

Three different lodgings, all next to each other, at around R$ 200 a night (single or double).