Exploring the Sand Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses

Whispers of the Lesser Dunes

Today was about venturing off the beaten path, seeking out the quieter corners of Lençóis Maranhenses. It's easy to get caught up in the grandeur of the main park, but I've learned that true adventure lies in the unexpected detours. Forget the bustling tourist spots; today, Greta and I chased serenity, and boy, did we find it!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. I have come to appreciate the simplicity of Brazilian breakfasts – strong coffee, fresh fruit, and a warm smile from the locals. It's the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. We knew that today would be full of quad tours, and seeing as the main park doesn't allow them, Pequenos Lençóis was our best bet.


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

After breakfast, we set off towards Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses. Pequenos Lençóis, meaning 'Little Lençóis,' promised a landscape of smaller, equally stunning dunes and lagoons, with the added bonus of fewer crowds. It's an area that stretches from Caburé to Tutóia, offering a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty. The journey itself was an adventure, navigating sandy tracks and crossing small streams. The anticipation grew with every bump in the road, eager to see what awaited us. As an ESL teacher, I often tell my students that the journey is just as important as the destination, and today was a perfect example of that.

We arrived at Pequenos Lençóis, and it was like stepping into a dream. The dunes were softer, more intimate, and the lagoons sparkled under the August sun. The temperature was around 31°C, a perfect day for swimming and sunbathing. Greta and I spent hours wandering through this landscape, feeling like the only people in the world. The heat was intense, but the occasional breeze offered a welcome respite. I couldn't help but think of my students back in Berlin, bundled up in their winter coats, while I was here, basking in the Brazilian sun. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the freedom and flexibility of being a travel blogger.

Sometimes, the greatest discoveries are made when you wander off the map.

Next on our itinerary was Lagoa da Areia, a hidden gem near Barreirinhas. This lagoon is surrounded by white sand dunes and lush vegetation, creating a tranquil oasis. We decided to rent a couple of stand-up paddleboards and explore the lagoon from a different perspective. Gliding across the calm waters, with the sun on my face and the sound of nature all around, was pure bliss. Greta, ever the bookworm, even managed to read a few pages while floating on her board. I, on the other hand, spent most of the time trying not to fall in – a task that proved more challenging than I anticipated.


Discover Lagoa da Areia in Barreirinhas: A serene freshwater lagoon perfect for swimming, relaxation, and enjoying the natural beauty of Maranhão.

After our aquatic adventures, we decided to indulge in some local shopping. We headed to Lençóis Fishing, a shop in the area, hoping to find some unique souvenirs [see location in search]. Though fishing isn't exactly my forte, I appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into creating handmade fishing gear. I ended up buying a small, intricately carved wooden fish as a memento of our time here. It will serve as a reminder of the peace and tranquility I found in Lençóis Maranhenses.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for dinner. The restaurant, as always, was buzzing with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered Moqueca de Camarão, a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, and toasted to another day of unforgettable experiences. The Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde seems to be the only place to eat around here, but the food is great, so I can't complain.

Before heading back to our pousada, we took a moment to reflect on the day. Pequenos Lençóis and Lagoa da Areia had exceeded all expectations, offering a glimpse into the untouched beauty of this region. It's a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are found far from the crowds, in the quiet corners of the world.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses itself [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I am excited to see what other wonders await us in this incredible landscape. Maybe we'll even stop by Rancho dos Lençois for a drink in the evening [see tomorrow's itinerary].

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore and share my experiences with you all. It's a privilege to be able to travel the world, immerse myself in different cultures, and connect with people from all walks of life. And as an ESL teacher, I hope that my stories inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and embark on their own adventures.

The trip to Pequenos Lencois was certainly a change of pace from the grand dunes of the main park. The lagoons were smaller but no less stunning, and the feeling of solitude was truly special. One of the highlights was definitely the ATV tour through the dunes. It's an exhilarating way to experience the landscape, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a bit of adventure. Just be prepared to get sandy!

The local cuisine is another aspect of this trip that has truly captivated me. The Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde offers a variety of traditional Maranhão dishes, each bursting with flavor and authenticity. From the Arroz de Cuxá to the Moqueca de Camarão, every meal has been a culinary adventure. I even tried my hand at cooking a few of these dishes myself, with varying degrees of success. Greta, of course, was the more accomplished chef, whipping up a delicious Feijoada that had us both craving more.

As the sun sets over Lençóis Maranhenses, casting a golden glow over the dunes, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. This journey has been more than just a vacation; it's been a transformative experience that has enriched my life in countless ways. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue to explore this magical corner of Brazil. I am particularly excited to see the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses [see tomorrow's itinerary]. It is said to be the jewel of the region, and I am eager to witness its beauty firsthand. Perhaps, we'll even find some time to relax at Rancho dos Lençois [see tomorrow's itinerary].

Before I sign off for the night, I want to share a little anecdote from today's adventure. As we were exploring Lagoa da Areia, I decided to try my hand at paddleboarding, despite having zero experience. Needless to say, it didn't go as planned. I spent more time in the water than on the board, much to Greta's amusement. But even though I was soaking wet and slightly embarrassed, I couldn't help but laugh. It's moments like these that make travel so special – the unexpected challenges, the silly mistakes, and the shared laughter that creates lasting memories. I suppose that's what makes it all worth it, and what makes me want to keep coming back for more.

The people of Lençóis Maranhenses have been incredibly welcoming and hospitable, making our experience even more memorable. Their warmth and generosity have touched our hearts, and we feel a deep connection to this community. I've always believed that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it's about connecting with people, learning from their experiences, and building bridges across cultures. And in that regard, Lençóis Maranhenses has exceeded all expectations. I am thankful to have had this experience.

I am eager to share more stories and insights from our journey. So stay tuned for more updates from Lençóis Maranhenses, as we continue to explore and uncover the hidden gems of this breathtaking region.

Until next time, keep exploring and keep dreaming!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention the mosquitoes! Despite forgetting to pack mosquito repellent, we managed to survive the day unscathed. However, I will definitely be investing in some before tomorrow's adventures. Lesson learned!

The weather in Lençóis Maranhenses in August is generally hot and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 33°C. It's important to pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. And don't forget the mosquito repellent!

We had breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. We highly recommend it. The food is delicious and authentic, and the service is excellent. If you're looking for a taste of local cuisine, this is the place to go.

There are several ways to get to Pequenos Lençóis, including 4x4 vehicles and ATV tours. We opted for a 4x4, as it allowed us to explore the area at our own pace. However, the ATV tours are also a great option for those seeking a more adventurous experience.

Lagoa da Areia is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can swim, paddleboard, or simply relax on the sandy shores. The lagoon is particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape. We visited in the afternoon and were not disappointed. The sunset was stunning.

There are several shops in Barreirinhas where you can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. Lençóis Fishing is just one of many options. Be sure to explore the town and discover the unique treasures it has to offer. You can also find local handicrafts in Mandacaru.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of a quote by the great travel writer, Pico Iyer:

We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next, to find ourselves.

And I believe that Lençóis Maranhenses has helped us do just that.