Family Adventure in the Sands: Exploring Lençóis Maranhenses

Coastal Charms and Red Sands

Today marked the seventh day of our family adventure in Lençóis Maranhenses, and it was filled with coastal discoveries and delightful local experiences. Leaving the serene dunes behind for a day, we ventured towards the coastal side of Paulino Neves, eager to explore what this region had to offer. The change of scenery was refreshing, and the kids were particularly excited about the prospect of seeing the ocean.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. This charming spot has become our go-to for morning meals, and today was no exception. Fatima and I enjoyed some strong Brazilian coffee while Nelson devoured a plate of *pão de queijo*, and Sheila opted for fresh fruit. It's become a comforting routine, and the friendly staff always make us feel welcome.

After breakfast, we set off to our first destination: Sítio do Zeca. It was a short drive from Ponta Verde, and the anticipation was building as we approached. Sítio do Zeca turned out to be a delightful surprise. It wasn't just a place; it was an experience. The kids were immediately captivated by the animals roaming freely around the area. Nelson, ever the curious one, tried to befriend a stubborn donkey, while Sheila was fascinated by the chickens pecking at the ground. Fatima and I enjoyed the tranquility of the place, taking in the simple beauty of rural life.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Sítio do Zeca in Santo Amaro do Maranhão, a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet.

The owner of Sítio do Zeca, a kind and weathered man, shared stories about his life and the local culture. He spoke with such passion and pride that it was hard not to feel moved. He showed us how he makes *rapadura*, a traditional Brazilian sugar cane candy. Nelson and Sheila even got to try their hand at stirring the mixture, much to their delight. We learned so much about the local traditions and the importance of preserving them. It was a truly enriching experience, and one that reminded me of the importance of connecting with the local community when traveling.

The best journeys are those that allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with the people who call a place home.

Next on our itinerary was Praia do Barro Vermelho. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with sandy roads and lush vegetation lining the way. As we approached the beach, the landscape began to change dramatically. The towering red clay cliffs against the backdrop of the blue Atlantic Ocean were a sight to behold. The kids were awestruck, and even Fatima and I couldn't help but marvel at the natural beauty.


Discover the serene beauty of Praia do Barro Vermelho in Paulino Neves, Maranhão, with its striking red cliffs, tranquil waters, and abundant wildlife.

Praia do Barro Vermelho, living up to its name, boasts striking red sands and dramatic cliffs. The contrast between the reddish landscape and the blue sea created a picturesque scene that was perfect for some family photos. We spent a good part of the afternoon swimming in the calm waters and building sandcastles. Nelson and I even tried our hand at some body surfing, while Fatima and Sheila collected seashells along the shore.

The beach wasn't overly crowded, which allowed us to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. There were a few *barracas* (beach shacks) selling refreshments and snacks, which was convenient. We indulged in some fresh coconut water and *pastel*, a fried pastry filled with cheese and meat. It was the perfect beachside treat. The kids were in their element, running around, playing in the sand, and splashing in the water. It was a joy to watch them so carefree and happy.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach, hand in hand. The sky was painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a breathtaking sunset. It was one of those moments where time seemed to stand still, and we were all grateful to be sharing it together. It reminded me of the beautiful sunsets back in Chibuto, Mozambique, where the sky would explode with vibrant colors, painting the horizon with unforgettable scenes. Those memories of home always bring a sense of peace and nostalgia.

Before heading back to Ponta Verde, we made a quick stop at Lima mix sacolão. We needed to stock up on some essentials, like bottled water and snacks for the kids. It was a small, local shop, but it had everything we needed. The owner, a friendly woman with a warm smile, helped us find what we were looking for. It's these small interactions that make traveling so special. Supporting local businesses and connecting with the people who live here adds so much depth to the experience.


Experience the essence of Maranhão at Lima Mix Sacolão, where fresh produce and local flavors await every visitor.

For dinner, we returned to our familiar spot, Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The kids were tired but happy, and we were all looking forward to a relaxing evening. We ordered some *moqueca de camarão*, a traditional Brazilian shrimp stew, and *arroz com feijão*, rice and beans. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, and the perfect way to end our day of coastal exploration. As we ate, we reminisced about the highlights of the day, from the animals at Sítio do Zeca to the red sands of Praia do Barro Vermelho.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. It's days like these that make traveling with family so rewarding. Seeing the world through my children's eyes, experiencing new cultures, and creating lasting memories together – it's what life is all about. Even Fatima, who initially had reservations about the long journey from Edmonton, admitted that it was all worth it. I think she's starting to understand my obsession with travel.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the natural beauty around here, with a visit to Beira do Rio Ribeira and Mirante dos pequenos lençóis maranhenses. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all. And perhaps we'll stop by Bar Sol e Mar for a refreshing drink in the evening. Until then, *adeus*!

In reflecting on our day, I’m reminded of a Mozambican proverb my grandmother used to say: *“Ukhamba luyi lwandle lwakhelela tintsomba,”* which means, The pot is the sea that collects stories. Today, our pot overflowed with tales of red sands, friendly locals, and the simple joys of family travel. These are the stories we'll carry with us long after we leave Lençóis Maranhenses.

The journey continues, and with each passing day, I'm more convinced that this trip was exactly what our family needed. A chance to reconnect, to explore, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to Lençóis Maranhenses and relive these magical moments once again.