Family Adventure in the Sands: Exploring Lençóis Maranhenses

A Day of Serenity and Local Flavors

Today, on the tenth day of our Brazilian adventure, we ventured beyond the well-trodden paths of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. We sought a different kind of beauty, one that whispered tales of tranquility and authentic local life. Leaving behind the iconic dunes for a day, Fatima, the kids, and I set out to explore the hidden gems of Lagoa do Cassó and the riverside of Santo Amaro do Maranhão. It was a day filled with serene landscapes, genuine interactions, and a deeper connection to the heart of Maranhão.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. It's become our go-to spot, not just for the delicious food, but also for the warm, familiar smiles that greet us each morning. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we hopped into our rented 4x4 – a necessity for navigating the sandy paths that lead to Lagoa do Cassó. The drive itself was an experience, bumping along the rustic roads, passing through small villages where life seemed to move at a slower, more deliberate pace.

As we approached Lagoa do Cassó, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I had read about its tranquil waters and lush surroundings, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer beauty that unfolded before my eyes. Sheila and Nelson were immediately captivated, their eyes wide with wonder as they took in the scene. The lagoon, often referred to as the “Jericoacoara Maranhense” , stretched out before us, its waters a shimmering expanse of turquoise, framed by verdant vegetation. The kids were eager to jump in, and Fatima and I were just as excited to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

We spent the morning swimming in the warm, clear waters of Lagoa do Cassó. The kids splashed and played, their laughter echoing across the lagoon. Fatima and I took turns watching them, while also enjoying the opportunity to unwind and reconnect with each other. It was moments like these, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, that made our family trips so special. I even tried my hand at canoeing, paddling gently across the lagoon, taking in the stunning views from a different perspective.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world, where nature's beauty intertwines with the simplicity of local life.

For lunch, we returned to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, our appetites whetted by the morning's activities. We savored traditional Maranhense dishes, bursting with flavor and prepared with love. The kids, surprisingly, were quite adventurous, trying new things and declaring everything “muito gostoso!” After lunch, we decided to explore the Beira Rio de Santo Amaro do Maranhão, a riverside promenade that I had heard so much about.


Explore the tranquil riverside beauty and rich culture of Beira Rio de Santo Amaro do Maranhão, a hidden gem in Brazil's stunning Maranhão state.

The Beira Rio was a vibrant hub of activity, a place where locals gathered to socialize, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of the river. We strolled along the promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of this lively community space. Children played, couples strolled hand-in-hand, and fishermen cast their lines into the water. It was a slice of authentic Maranhense life, far removed from the tourist crowds of the national park. I was particularly impressed by the infrastructure, which included a covered stage and a walking area.

We stopped at the Bar da Amizade, a local watering hole, for a refreshing afternoon treat. I opted for a cold *cerveja*, while Fatima and the kids enjoyed *guaraná*, a popular Brazilian soda. We sat at a table overlooking the river, watching the world go by and soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. I struck up a conversation with a local fisherman, who shared stories of his life and his love for the river. It was these kinds of interactions, these genuine connections with the people of Maranhão, that made our trip so enriching.


Experience the warmth and charm of Bar da Amizade in Praia do Barreirinhas, the perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and local flavor.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the river, we made our way back to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for dinner. The evening was filled with laughter, good food, and a shared sense of contentment. We recounted our favorite moments of the day, each of us grateful for the opportunity to experience the hidden gems of Lençóis Maranhenses. The kids were already fast asleep when we arrived back at our *pousada*, their dreams filled with images of tranquil lagoons and riverside charm.

Tomorrow is our last day in Lençóis Maranhenses, and we plan to make the most of it. We're scheduled to visit Boogie dos Lençóis and Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses , hoping to soak up every last bit of this incredible landscape before we head back to Edmonton. I'm also planning a quick stop at O Boticário to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home. It's hard to believe our adventure is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime.

As I sit here, reflecting on our day, I am reminded of the importance of venturing off the beaten path, of seeking out the hidden gems that lie beyond the tourist hotspots. It is in these quiet corners of the world that we often find the most authentic and rewarding experiences, the moments that truly touch our hearts and broaden our understanding of the world. And as we prepare to bid farewell to Lençóis Maranhenses, I know that we will carry these memories with us, a reminder of the beauty, the serenity, and the warmth of this extraordinary place.

Until tomorrow, *adeus* from Santo Amaro!