Exploring the Mesmerizing Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses

Finding Serenity Beyond the Dunes

Today was a day of unexpected discoveries and tranquil moments, a beautiful departure from the more strenuous dune trekking we've been doing. It's funny how sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan for, the detours that lead to hidden gems. Today, those gems were Lagoa do Cassó and Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses.


Discover Lagoa do Cassó: Maranhão's hidden paradise with crystal-clear waters, tranquil beaches, and unforgettable natural beauty.

Our day began, as it has every day here, with a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The simple, yet nourishing, meals have become a comforting ritual, fueling us for whatever adventures the day holds. After breakfast, we set off towards Lagoa do Cassó, a place I'd heard whispered about but hadn't fully appreciated until today. The journey itself was an experience, the landscape transforming from the familiar dunes to lush, green vegetation.

Lagoa do Cassó is often called the 'Jericoacoara of Maranhão' by tourists, and the 'Pearl of Lençóis Maranhenses' by locals. As we arrived, the comparison became clear. The tranquil, crystal-clear waters were framed by vibrant greenery, a stark contrast to the white dunes we've become accustomed to. The atmosphere was serene, inviting us to relax and soak in the natural beauty. I couldn't help but think how much Jan would have enjoyed this peaceful setting; he always appreciates a quiet spot to read and reflect. Perhaps on our next adventure, I'll convince him to join me in Brazil.

We spent a blissful few hours by the lagoon. Some of us swam in the refreshing water, while others chose to lounge in the hammocks strung between the trees, gently swaying in the breeze. I opted for a bit of both, alternating between cooling dips in the water and relaxing with a book under the shade of a nearby tree. It was the perfect antidote to the physical challenges of the past few days, a chance to recharge and reconnect with nature. I even tried my hand at canoeing, a surprisingly calming activity that allowed me to explore the lagoon at my own pace.

The beauty of Lençóis isn't just in its vast dunes, but also in these pockets of serenity, where water and life flourish in unexpected harmony.

After a leisurely lunch back at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, we decided to explore Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses. This area, as the name suggests, is a smaller version of the main park, a miniature landscape of dunes and lagoons that offers a unique charm all its own. The landscape was mesmerizing, and the scale made it feel more intimate and accessible than the vast expanse of Lençóis Maranhenses itself. We wandered through the dunes, marveling at the intricate patterns the wind had carved into the sand. The lagoons, though smaller, were just as inviting, their waters reflecting the clear blue sky.


Discover the serene beauty of Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses: a stunning landscape of dunes and lagoons in Maranhão, Brazil. An unforgettable escape.

One of the highlights of Pequenos Lençóis was the opportunity to interact with local artisans. We stopped by Lençóis Fishing, a small shop where local fishermen sell their handmade crafts. I purchased a beautiful woven basket, a perfect souvenir to remind me of this incredible journey. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and it felt good to contribute to the community in this small way.


Discover top-notch fishing gear and expert advice at Lençóis Fishing in Barreirinhas, a must-visit for every fishing enthusiast.

As the sun began to set, we found a perfect spot on one of the dunes to watch the spectacle unfold. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the landscape. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the simple joys in life. We sat in comfortable silence, simply enjoying the view and each other's company. It was moments like these that made this trip so special, the shared experiences that strengthened our bonds of friendship.

Dinner, once again, was at our reliable spot in Ponta Verde. I relished the familiar flavors, the taste of home-cooked goodness that nourished both body and soul. We talked and laughed, reminiscing about the day's adventures and sharing stories from our lives back home. It's amazing how travel can bring people closer, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore São José dos Sacos and Beira do Rio Ribeira, and perhaps even unwind at Charloso Bar in the evening. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, what hidden corners of this incredible landscape we'll discover. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the serenity of Lagoa do Cassó and the enchantment of Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses. It was a day that reminded me that sometimes the best journeys are the ones that take you off the beaten path, the unexpected detours that lead to the most beautiful destinations.

As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, a famous Moroccan scholar and explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And indeed, this journey has left me speechless on many occasions, filling me with stories I can't wait to share. It's a privilege to experience such natural beauty, to witness the unique landscapes of Lençóis Maranhenses. And it's even more special to share these experiences with friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am grateful for this opportunity, for the chance to explore, discover, and connect with the world around me. And I look forward to the adventures that tomorrow will bring.

This trip to Lençóis Maranhenses has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of self-discovery, a chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate the simple things in life. It's a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places and that the best experiences are often the ones you don't plan. As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with gratitude for this incredible adventure and excitement for what lies ahead. Perhaps, one day, I'll bring Jan back here with me. I know he'd love it. Good night from Lençóis Maranhenses!

As a cultural liaison, I am always fascinated by how different cultures interact with their environment. Here in Lençóis Maranhenses, the local communities have a deep connection to the land, living in harmony with the dunes and lagoons. It's a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit, a reminder that we can coexist with nature in a sustainable way. I hope that my travels can inspire others to appreciate and protect our planet's natural treasures, ensuring that future generations can experience the same wonder and awe that I have felt on this journey. And maybe, just maybe, inspire a few more people to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world. After all, as I've learned, the best stories are often found off the beaten path.