Exploring the Sand Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses

Finding Peace in Ponta Verde and the Lagoa Alaris

Today was a day of simple pleasures and quiet reflection. Leaving behind the more trodden paths of Lençóis Maranhenses, Greta and I ventured into the heart of the park to discover the tranquil beauty of Lagoa Alaris and the rustic charm of the Povoado de Ponta Verde. It was a day that reminded me why we travel: to find those hidden corners of the world where life slows down, and you can truly connect with the landscape and its people.

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, authentic Brazilian cuisine, but also for the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Eating here feels like joining a family meal, with everyone sharing stories and laughter. After fueling up, we set off to explore the Beira do Rio Ribeira.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Beira do Rio Ribeira in Primeira Cruz, Maranhão, a perfect spot for relaxation and cultural immersion.

The Beira do Rio Ribeira offered a serene start to our explorations. The riverbank was quiet, with only the sounds of the water and the occasional bird breaking the silence. I took the opportunity to practice some Portuguese with a local fisherman, learning about the different types of fish in the river and the challenges they face with the changing seasons. It's these small interactions that often leave the biggest impression on me. As an ESL teacher, I am naturally inclined to converse with people and learn about their lives. Greta, meanwhile, was busy capturing the scene with her camera, always on the lookout for that perfect shot.

From there, we made our way to the highlight of the day: Lagoa Alaris. The journey itself was an adventure, as the 'roads' here are really just sandy tracks that wind through the dunes. But when we finally arrived, the sight of the lagoon took our breath away. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky above, and the surrounding dunes were pristine and untouched. We spent hours swimming in the cool, refreshing water and simply basking in the sun. I even tried my hand at some landscape photography, inspired by Greta’s passion for capturing the beauty around us.


Discover the serene beauty of Lagoa Alaris in Barreirinhas, a hidden gem within the breathtaking Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature and the simple rhythms of life.

Lunch was, once again, at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. We enjoyed a leisurely meal of fresh seafood, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant is known for its authentic Brazilian cuisine, and it certainly didn't disappoint. It's amazing how food can taste so much better when you're surrounded by such natural beauty. After lunch, we decided to explore the Povoado itself. It's a small, unassuming village, but it has a certain charm that's hard to resist. The locals were incredibly friendly, and we spent some time chatting with them about their way of life. It's humbling to see how people can live so simply and happily, with so little material wealth.

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves drawn to the Kayak Bar. Though tempted by the promise of a refreshing drink, we opted instead to rent a couple of kayaks and explore the river. Paddling through the calm waters, surrounded by lush vegetation, was an incredibly peaceful experience. We even spotted a few local fishermen casting their nets, adding to the idyllic scene.


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

As the sun began to set, we returned to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for dinner. The sky was ablaze with color, painting a breathtaking backdrop to our meal. We sat there, hand in hand, watching the day come to an end, feeling grateful for the experiences we'd shared. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Reflecting on our day, I realized that sometimes the most memorable travel experiences are not about ticking off famous landmarks or engaging in adrenaline-fueled activities. Instead, they're about slowing down, connecting with nature, and immersing yourself in the local culture. Today, in Ponta Verde and at Lagoa Alaris, we did just that. It was a day of simple pleasures, quiet reflection, and genuine connection. And as an ESL teacher, I was particularly touched by the warmth and hospitality of the local people, who welcomed us into their community with open arms.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses and Lagoa da areia Barreirinhas. I’m excited to see what new adventures await us, but I know that today’s memories will stay with me long after we leave this magical place. And perhaps, we'll even find some time to visit Lençóis Fishing, I know Greta would love to see what local crafts and goods they have on offer.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. This trip to Lençóis Maranhenses has been everything I hoped for and more. It's a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new ways of life and connecting with the world around us. And as someone who has found a new home in Berlin, I am always reminded of the importance of cultural exchange and understanding. I am happy to share these experiences with Greta, as we continue our journey together.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the warmth and authenticity of its people. As we prepare for our next adventure, I carry with me the lessons learned and the memories created in this unique corner of Brazil. I am excited to see what tomorrow holds, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with you all.

Until next time, keep exploring and keep connecting. The world is waiting to be discovered.

And who knows, maybe one day I'll be able to share my travel stories with my ESL students, inspiring them to explore the world and embrace new cultures. After all, travel is one of the best forms of education.

I am grateful for this journey and look forward to sharing more stories with you all.

Boa noite from Brazil!