Family Adventure in the Sands: Exploring Lençóis Maranhenses

Whispers of the Dunes

Today marked the beginning of our family's adventure in Lençóis Maranhenses, and what a start it has been! Leaving behind the familiar streets of Edmonton for this otherworldly landscape felt like stepping into a dream. The sheer scale of the dunes is breathtaking, and the anticipation of exploring this unique corner of Brazil with Fatima, Nelson, and Sheila has filled me with a sense of excitement and wonder. It's a journey into the unknown, a chance to connect with nature, and a promise of memories we'll cherish forever.

Our day began early, fueled by excitement and a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The temperature was already climbing, hinting at the hot day ahead. I made sure everyone had a generous layer of sunscreen; I wasn't about to let us get burned on day one. We had remembered the sunscreen, thankfully, but I was kicking myself for forgetting the portable charger; relying on outlets in the guesthouse might be tricky. After breakfast, we set off to explore the Portal de Lençóis Maranhenses.


Discover the best access point to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, offering stunning dunes, lagoons, and unforgettable natural experiences in Santo Amaro.

The journey to the park's entrance was an adventure in itself. The landscape transformed from small villages to increasingly sandy tracks. As we approached the Portal, the immensity of the dunes began to reveal itself. It felt like arriving at the edge of a vast, white desert. Sheila was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she pointed out the 'mountains of sand'. Nelson, ever the pragmatist, wanted to know how high they were and if we could slide down them.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses lies not just in its landscape, but in the feeling of being utterly transported to another world.

Our first official stop was Queimada dos Britos, a small oasis settlement nestled within the dunes. This remote community offered a glimpse into a different way of life, one intimately connected with the rhythms of the desert. The village felt like a mirage, a splash of green and brown amidst the stark white landscape. We met some of the locals, who were incredibly welcoming, sharing stories of their lives in this isolated paradise. I was struck by their resilience and resourcefulness, living in harmony with such a challenging environment. It reminded me of stories my grandmother used to tell me about growing up in rural Mozambique, where resourcefulness was a way of life.


Discover Queimada dos Britos, a remote oasis village in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, offering stunning landscapes and a unique cultural experience.

Lunch, once again at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, was a simple but delicious affair. The local cuisine is hearty and flavorful, providing the perfect fuel for our explorations. Fatima was particularly impressed with the fresh fish, declaring it the best she'd had in a long time. Nelson, predictably, devoured his meal, while Sheila cautiously tried a bit of everything.

After lunch, we took some time to visit Casa Da Castanha E Artesanato, a local shop offering handicrafts and regional products. I was keen to support the local economy and find a few souvenirs to take back home. Fatima found a beautiful handmade bracelet, while the kids were drawn to the colorful kites. I picked up a bag of locally sourced cashews, eager to taste the flavors of Lençóis Maranhenses. The shop was a treasure trove of local artistry, each piece telling a story of the region and its people.


Explore the charm of Barreirinhas at Casa Da Castanha E Artesanato, where local craftsmanship meets unique home goods in a delightful shopping experience.

As the day drew to a close, we returned to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for dinner, exhausted but exhilarated. The sunset over the dunes was a sight to behold, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day. As we ate, we discussed our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting the Dunas de Atins and Lagoa Bonita. I'm particularly excited about Lagoa Bonita, having seen pictures of its crystal-clear waters. We might even check out the Charme Beach Bar in Atins for a relaxing evening drink.

Back at our guesthouse, I reflected on the day's adventures. Lençóis Maranhenses is unlike any place I've ever been. The vastness of the dunes, the clarity of the lagoons, and the warmth of the local people have already left a lasting impression. It's a place that challenges your perception of what a desert can be, a place where life thrives against all odds. I am so glad I get to share this with my family. It makes me appreciate the simple things in life, things I sometimes take for granted back in Edmonton. I am reminded of a Mozambican saying my father used to repeat: 'Ukhala ngopfu a nga ha weli', meaning 'He who travels too fast misses the best views'.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and anticipation. Lençóis Maranhenses has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am also grateful that we are traveling during November. I read that the temperatures range between 26°C and 32°C, which is warm but manageable, and the winds help keep things cool. Plus, the low rainfall means we should have plenty of sunshine.

Tomorrow, we venture further into this mesmerizing landscape, ready to embrace whatever wonders await us. Good night from Lençóis Maranhenses!

I cannot wait to share the next chapter of our journey with you all. Boa noite!