Family Adventure in Chapada Diamantina National Park

Echoes of the Past, Hues of the Earth

Today, Francisca, Nilton, and I embarked on a journey that felt like stepping back in time, interwoven with the vibrant colors of the earth. It was a day of exploration that touched both our historical curiosity and our love for natural beauty. Chapada Diamantina National Park continues to surprise and enchant us with its hidden gems.

Our day began, as most do here in the park, with a simple breakfast amidst the sounds of nature at our campsite within Chapada Diamantina National Park. The August air was crisp, a pleasant contrast to the warmer days we’ve been experiencing. After packing our essentials, we set off to explore Serra das Paridas, an archaeological site known for its ancient rock paintings.


Explore ancient rock art and stunning landscapes at Serra das Paridas, a hidden gem in Bahia's Chapada Diamantina.

Serra das Paridas: A Journey Through Time

The drive to Serra das Paridas from our campsite was scenic, offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that define Chapada Diamantina. The final stretch was a bit bumpy, but the anticipation of seeing the rock art kept our spirits high. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our guide, who shared fascinating insights into the history and significance of the site.

As we walked along the trails, surrounded by towering rock formations, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The paintings, estimated to be over 8,000 years old, depicted animals, people, and geometric figures. It was incredible to think that these images were created by the ancient inhabitants of this region, offering a glimpse into their lives and beliefs. Nilton was particularly intrigued, asking endless questions about the artists and their world.

Francisca, ever the observer, noticed the intricate details in the artwork. She pointed out the use of mineral pigments, such as manganese and iron oxide, which gave the paintings their distinctive colors. Our guide explained that the Serra das Paridas got its name from one of the figures depicted – a squatting woman, symbolizing birth. It was a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between humanity and nature.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

I found myself reflecting on my work as a tour guide in Lisbon, where I often share stories of the city's African influences. Here, in Chapada Diamantina, I was connecting with a different kind of history, one that spoke of the deep roots of human presence in this land. It reinforced my belief that history is not just about dates and events, but about the stories of people and their relationship with the world around them. We spent a good part of the morning exploring the various sites within Serra das Paridas, each offering a unique perspective on the ancient art. The well-maintained trails made it easy to navigate, and the reception area provided a welcome respite with complimentary coffee. It’s clear that the owners of this private park are committed to preserving this invaluable heritage.

Lunch at Restaurante Sabor da Serra

Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Sabor da Serra in Lençóis - where every dish tells a story.

After immersing ourselves in history, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We drove to Restaurante Sabor da Serra, a local eatery known for its traditional Bahian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered moqueca, a seafood stew cooked in coconut milk, and feijão tropeiro, a bean dish with sausage and collard greens. The flavors were rich and satisfying, providing the perfect energy boost for our afternoon adventure.

As we ate, we chatted about our impressions of Serra das Paridas. Nilton was particularly excited about the idea of ancient artists, imagining them painting on the rocks under the starry sky. Francisca was moved by the sense of connection to the past, feeling a kinship with the people who had lived here so long ago. For me, it was a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and sharing it with future generations.

Salão das Areias Coloridas: A Palette of Nature

Discover the vibrant Salão das Areias Coloridas in Lençóis, Bahia: a natural masterpiece of multicolored sands and sculpted rock formations.

With our bellies full and our spirits renewed, we set off to our next destination: Salão das Areias Coloridas, or the Hall of Colored Sands. This unique geological formation is located near the natural pools of Parque Municipal do Serrano. The Salão is a testament to the power of nature to create art. As we approached, we were greeted by a landscape of vibrant hues – pink, white, red, green, yellow, and lilac sands spread across the ground.

The origin of these colored sands is quite fascinating. Our guide explained that the area was once mined for diamonds, and the miners' activities inadvertently created the caverns and tunnels that now make up the Salão. As they dug into the rocks, they exposed different layers of minerals, which, through erosion, resulted in the colorful sands we see today.

Walking through the Salão das Areias Coloridas felt like stepping into a painting. The light filtering through the tunnels created a mesmerizing effect, highlighting the different shades of the sands. Nilton was thrilled, running his hands through the soft grains and marveling at the colors. Francisca, with her keen eye for detail, noticed the intricate patterns formed by the sands, resembling abstract art.

I learned that the colored sands were once used by local artisans to create crafts and souvenirs. However, extraction is now prohibited to preserve the site's natural beauty. Today, the only souvenirs we could take were photographs, but the memories of this vibrant landscape would stay with us forever.

According to local legend, the Salão is also haunted by a ghost called Mama Vicente. Our guide told us the story with a playful tone, warning us to be cautious as we explored the tunnels. Nilton, of course, was both scared and excited by the tale, adding an extra layer of adventure to our visit. The Salão das Areias Coloridas is a place where nature, history, and legend intertwine, creating a truly unique experience.

Budha Bar: A Relaxing End to the Day

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Budha Bar in Chapada Diamantina, where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind at Budha Bar in Vale do Capão [DayNumber]. This restaurant and bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Chapada Diamantina landscape. We ordered some local snacks and drinks, and sat back to enjoy the sunset. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, creating a festive ambiance. Reflecting on the day, I felt grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Chapada Diamantina has a way of bringing us closer, connecting us to nature and to each other. As we sipped our drinks, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We'll be visiting Cachoeira Ferro Doido and Cachoeira Da California, two more of the park's stunning waterfalls [DayNumber+1]. I'm particularly excited to see Cachoeira Ferro Doido, as I've heard it's one of the most impressive falls in the region. Before heading back to our campsite, we made a quick stop at a local store to pick up some essentials. I realized I had forgotten to buy extra memory cards for my camera, a rookie mistake for a travel blogger like myself! Thankfully, the store had what I needed, and I was able to capture all the memories of the day without worrying about running out of space.

Back at our campsite, as we prepared dinner under the starry sky, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure, showcasing the diverse beauty of Chapada Diamantina. I am looking forward to sharing more of our experiences with you as our journey continues.

The temperature tonight is expected to be around 59°F (15°C), so we’ll make sure to bundle up. August in Chapada Diamantina offers pleasant temperatures, but it can get cool in the evenings. As I write this, Nilton is already asleep in his tent, dreaming of ancient artists and colorful sands. Francisca is reading a book by the light of our lantern, her face illuminated by the warm glow. I feel grateful for these moments, for the chance to explore the world with my loved ones and share our stories with you. Tomorrow, we chase waterfalls!