Exploring the Sand Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses

Whispers of the Dunes

Today was a day of exploration and wonder here in Lençóis Maranhenses. The landscape continues to amaze me, and I feel like I'm walking on another planet. The sheer scale of the dunes, combined with the refreshing lagoons, is something I'll never forget. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. It's become our go-to spot for meals, offering a real taste of local flavors. Greta especially enjoyed the fresh fruit, while I couldn't resist trying another traditional dish. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore!


Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde in Santo Amaro do Maranhão—where every dish is a journey through local flavors.

First on our list was the intriguing Beco do Beijo, or Kissing Alley. It’s a narrow passage in Santo Amaro do Maranhão, and while I couldn't find much information about its history, the name alone sparked our curiosity. It was a charming little spot, perfect for a quick photo and a stolen kiss with Greta. The alleyway was vibrant with local life, and I could imagine many romantic encounters happening there over the years.


Discover the romantic charm of Beco do Beijo, a hidden gem in Santo Amaro do Maranhão, near the stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

From the intimate corners of Beco do Beijo, we headed towards the vast expanse of Lagoa Bonita. The journey there was an adventure in itself, bumping along in a 4x4 vehicle. The anticipation built as we approached the dunes, knowing a breathtaking view awaited us. The climb up the dune to reach Lagoa Bonita was quite a workout, but the views from the top were more than worth it. The landscape unfolded before us: pristine white dunes meeting crystal-clear blue lagoons. It felt like stepping into a dream.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Lagoa Bonita - Rota, where breathtaking lagoons and stunning dunes await adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses isn't just in its landscape, but in the way it makes you feel – small yet connected, awestruck yet at peace.

We spent hours swimming in the refreshing waters of Lagoa Bonita, feeling the soft sand between our toes. The sun was high, but the water was cool and inviting. I took countless photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment. Greta, ever the bookworm, found a quiet spot to read, occasionally glancing up to admire the scenery. It was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

As the day wore on, we made our way back to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for lunch. We were both starving after our climb and swim. We enjoyed another delicious meal, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all sharing stories of their adventures in Lençóis Maranhenses. It’s amazing how food can bring people together, creating a sense of community even in a remote location.

In the late afternoon, with the sun beginning to dip towards the horizon, we decided to check out Bar Sol e Mar. It promised a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. We sipped on refreshing drinks, watching the sky change colors as the sun set over the dunes. The bar had a laid-back vibe, with locals strumming guitars and singing traditional songs. It was a perfect way to end the day.


Experience the essence of Barreirinhas at Bar Sol e Mar, your go-to spot for refreshing drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

As we sat there, reflecting on our adventures, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this experience. Lençóis Maranhenses is a truly special place, and I'm so glad we decided to come here. The unique landscape, the friendly locals, and the sense of adventure have all combined to create an unforgettable journey.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Vassouras and Mirante das dunas de Vassouras, and perhaps pick up a souvenir at Casa Da Castanha E Artesanato. I'm excited to see what new wonders await us. Until then, boa noite from Lençóis Maranhenses!

I'm finding that traveling without a set hotel, as we're doing on this trip, really allows us to connect with the place on a deeper level. We're relying on local knowledge and recommendations, which leads us to hidden gems we might otherwise miss. It also forces us to be more adaptable and open to new experiences, which is exactly what travel should be about.

Greta, with her librarian's curiosity, is always eager to learn about the local culture and history. She's been practicing her Portuguese with the locals, and it's been heartwarming to see her connect with them on a personal level. As for me, I've been indulging in my passion for photography, capturing the stunning landscapes and vibrant street scenes. It's a joy to share these images with you all, hoping to inspire your own adventures.

One thing I've learned on this trip is the importance of being prepared. I almost forgot the mosquito repellent, which would have been a disaster given the lagoons and vegetation [TripDetails]. Luckily, Greta reminded me just in time! It's the little things like that that can make or break a trip.

The local cuisine here is also worth mentioning. We've been trying all sorts of traditional dishes, from arroz de cuxá to carne de sol. The flavors are so unique and vibrant, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. I even tried my hand at cooking a Caribbean-inspired meal for some of the locals we met, which was a fun way to share my own culture.

As the sun sets, casting long shadows across the dunes, I realize how much this trip has already enriched our lives. It's not just about seeing new places, but about connecting with different cultures, challenging ourselves, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And with Greta by my side, every moment is even more special. After all these years together, we still discover new things about each other on every trip we take.

We are looking forward to tomorrow, where we are hoping to find some monkeys in the dunes! We will keep you all posted!