Exploring the Mesmerizing Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses

Whispers of the Dunes

Today was a day of quiet exploration, a gentle dance with the landscape that defines Lençóis Maranhenses. It’s funny, isn’t it? How a place so vast can feel so intimate, so personal. After several days of traversing this unique terrain, I found myself yearning for a deeper connection, a moment to simply breathe in the essence of this natural wonder. I sought a slower pace, a chance to absorb the details often missed in the grand sweep of the scenery.

Our day began, as many have, with a simple yet satisfying breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The flavors here are honest and comforting, a perfect start before venturing out into the park's embrace. Jan always appreciates a good, strong coffee to get him going, while I prefer something a little lighter, a herbal tea perhaps. It’s these small differences that make our travels together so interesting, a constant negotiation of preferences that somehow always leads to the perfect compromise. Today, that compromise was a shared plate of fresh fruit, a sweet and tangy reminder of the Brazilian sun.


Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde in Santo Amaro do Maranhão—where every dish is a journey through local flavors.

With our appetites sated, we set off to explore the Mirante das dunas de Vassouras. The journey there was an adventure in itself, the familiar rumble of the bus a comforting rhythm against the backdrop of the park's ever-changing scenery. As we approached, the landscape began to shift, the dunes rising like gentle giants, their peaks softened by the constant caress of the wind. It was from this vantage point that I truly understood the scale of Lençóis Maranhenses, the seemingly endless expanse of sand stretching out to meet the horizon.


Discover golden dunes, refreshing lagoons, and playful monkeys at Mirante das Dunas de Vassouras, a unique oasis within Lençóis Maranhenses.

I must admit, I felt a pang of guilt for forgetting my portable charger. It’s a small thing, I know, but in this digital age, the fear of a dead battery feels almost crippling. Jan, ever the prepared one, chuckled and offered to share his. It’s moments like these that remind me how well we complement each other, his pragmatism balancing my occasional forgetfulness. Layla would have reminded me, I am sure. She is always on top of these things.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses lies not just in its grand vistas, but in the quiet moments of connection it fosters – with nature, with each other, and with oneself.

The view from the Mirante was nothing short of breathtaking. The lagoons, scattered like jewels across the landscape, shimmered under the September sun, their waters reflecting the clear blue sky above. It was a scene that demanded to be captured, not just with a camera, but with the heart. I closed my eyes for a moment, letting the wind whisper its secrets, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin, and committing the image to memory. It is experiences like these that I hope to share with Layla one day.

From the heights of Vassouras, we descended into the heart of the park, drawn by the allure of the Piscinas naturais. These natural pools, nestled between the dunes, offered a welcome respite from the heat, their cool waters inviting us to immerse ourselves in their tranquility. As I slipped into the refreshing embrace of the lagoon, I felt a sense of rejuvenation, a cleansing of both body and mind. The water was so clear, so pure, that I could see the grains of sand swirling beneath my feet, each one a tiny testament to the relentless forces that have shaped this landscape over millennia. I floated on my back, gazing up at the sky, feeling utterly weightless, utterly free.


Discover the serene beauty of Barreirinhas' Piscinas Naturais, a hidden paradise of crystal-clear pools nestled in Maranhão's stunning landscapes.

Jan, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the way the lagoons formed, the intricate interplay of rainwater and sand creating these ephemeral oases. He peppered our guide with questions, his curiosity insatiable. I, on the other hand, was content to simply soak it all in, letting the beauty of the moment wash over me. We spent hours swimming, laughing, and exploring the different pools, each one offering a unique perspective on this surreal landscape. It was a perfect afternoon, a reminder of the simple joys of life.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes, we made our way to Kayak Bar, a local establishment known for its riverside charm. I am not a big drinker, but I do enjoy a cocktail from time to time. The bar was alive with the murmur of conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the gentle strumming of a guitar. We found a spot by the water, ordered a couple of caipirinhas, and watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The atmosphere was convivial, the air filled with a sense of shared appreciation for the beauty that surrounded us. I chatted with some of the locals, learning about their lives, their traditions, and their deep connection to this land. It is these interactions that truly enrich my travel experiences, reminding me that the world is full of fascinating people with stories to tell.


Experience the vibrant culture and relaxing atmosphere at Kayak Bar, a must-visit riverside gem in Barreirinhas, Maranhão.

We reminisced about our time in Delft, a place so different, yet so familiar. Jan spoke of his students, his research, his unwavering dedication to his craft. I spoke of my work with the NGO, the challenges and rewards of bridging cultural divides. We talked about Layla, her ambitions, her dreams, her unwavering spirit. It was a moment of quiet intimacy, a reminder of the bonds that tie us together, no matter where we are in the world.

As the evening drew to a close, we made our way back to our campsite, the stars twinkling above us like diamonds scattered across a velvet cloth. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of the nearby ocean. I felt a sense of contentment, a deep satisfaction with the day's adventures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Lagoa do Cassó and Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses. I am looking forward to seeing what new wonders await us.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflected on the day's experiences, the quiet beauty of the dunes, the refreshing embrace of the lagoons, the convivial atmosphere of the Kayak Bar. It was a day of simple pleasures, a reminder that the most profound experiences are often found in the most unexpected places. Lençóis Maranhenses had once again worked its magic, weaving its spell of serenity and wonder. And as I closed my eyes, I whispered a silent thank you to this extraordinary landscape, for reminding me of the beauty that exists in the world, and the importance of taking the time to appreciate it.

Tomorrow, we’re off to explore Lagoa do Cassó and Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses. I’m also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Lençóis Fishing. I am looking forward to seeing what new wonders await us. Good night from Lençóis Maranhenses. May your dreams be as vast and beautiful as the dunes that surround me.