Exploring the Sand Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses

Adieu, Lençóis Maranhenses!

As our incredible journey through Lençóis Maranhenses National Park draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the kaleidoscope of experiences we've had. From the exhilarating jeep rides across the dunes to the serene moments spent floating in the crystal-clear lagoons, every moment has been a treasure. Today, our final day, was a perfect culmination of this adventure, filled with local charm and breathtaking views.

The morning started, as it often did here, with the promise of another beautiful day. We enjoyed breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The simple, hearty meal was a reminder of the authentic experiences we've sought throughout this trip. Fortified, we set out to explore the Feirinha Vila de Encantos.


Experience the vibrant culture of Maranhão at Feirinha Vila de Encantos in Santo Amaro, a treasure trove of local crafts and traditions.

This charming fair was a delightful immersion into local culture. Strolling through the stalls, we admired the handcrafted souvenirs and sampled regional treats. I picked up a small, intricately carved wooden bird, a memento to remind me of the vibrant wildlife that thrives even in this seemingly barren landscape. Greta, ever the bookworm, found a stall selling hand-bound notebooks made from recycled materials. She was thrilled with her find, envisioning filling it with sketches and reflections from our travels.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses isn't just in its landscapes, but in the warmth and resilience of its people.

Next on our itinerary was the Mirante dos Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses.


Discover panoramic views where dramatic dunes meet the lush Parnaíba River Delta in Maranhão, Brazil. A serene escape into nature's spectacle.

This viewpoint offered a stunning panorama of the Little Lençóis, a miniature version of the expansive park we'd come to adore. From our vantage point, the undulating dunes stretched out before us, dotted with shimmering lagoons that reflected the clear blue sky. The breeze was gentle, carrying the scent of the nearby ocean and the faint sound of distant laughter. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a perfect way to soak in the park's beauty one last time.

As the midday sun climbed higher, we returned to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for lunch. We decided to try the local fish, tambaqui, grilled to perfection and served with rice, beans, and a colorful salad. The flavors were simple yet satisfying, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the cook. Sharing a meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the past nine days.

With the afternoon stretching before us, we decided to indulge in a little sweetness at Açaí sabor encanto dos lençóis.


Discover the sweet flavors of Açaí Sabor Encanto dos Lençóis, a must-visit ice cream shop in Santo Amaro, Maranhão, perfect for cooling down after your adventures.

This local spot, recommended by several people we met, was a true gem. The açaí bowls were piled high with fresh fruit, granola, and a generous drizzle of honey. It was the perfect treat to cool us down in the August heat. As I savored each spoonful, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me.

As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the dunes, we found ourselves back at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde for our final dinner. We opted for a hearty feijoada, a traditional Brazilian stew of black beans and various cuts of pork. It was a comforting and flavorful meal, a fitting end to our culinary journey through Lençóis Maranhenses. Sharing stories and laughter, we raised our glasses in a toast to the incredible adventure we'd shared.

Looking back on our time here, I am struck by the sheer diversity of experiences we've had. From the adrenaline-pumping jeep rides to the peaceful moments of reflection, Lençóis Maranhenses has offered something for every facet of our adventurous spirits. The landscape itself is a marvel, a constantly shifting tapestry of sand and water that defies expectations at every turn. But beyond the scenery, it's the warmth and resilience of the local people that have truly touched our hearts. Their stories, their smiles, and their unwavering spirit have left an indelible mark on us.

As an ESL teacher, I'm always fascinated by the way language and culture intertwine. Here in Lençóis Maranhenses, I've been struck by the unique dialect and the rich oral traditions that have been passed down through generations. I've made a point of learning a few local phrases, much to the amusement (and sometimes bewilderment) of the locals. Greta, with her librarian's love of books, has been equally captivated by the stories and legends that are woven into the fabric of this place.

One evening, while sitting on the porch of our pousada, we met an elderly fisherman who shared tales of mythical creatures that roamed the dunes and lagoons. He spoke of shape-shifting dolphins and mischievous spirits that lured travelers off course. Whether these stories were true or not, they offered a glimpse into the rich imagination and the deep connection that the people here have with their environment. It reminded me of growing up in Micoud, Saint Lucia, listening to similar stories. These stories connect us to our past, to our ancestors, and to the land itself.

Our conversations with the locals have also highlighted the challenges that they face. The delicate ecosystem of Lençóis Maranhenses is under constant threat from climate change, irresponsible tourism, and unsustainable development. It's a reminder that we, as travelers, have a responsibility to minimize our impact and to support initiatives that promote conservation and sustainability. I plan to use my blog to raise awareness about these issues and to encourage others to travel responsibly.

As we prepare to leave this enchanting place, I know that a part of us will remain here, among the dunes and lagoons. We'll carry with us the memories of the breathtaking landscapes, the warmth of the local people, and the lessons we've learned about resilience, sustainability, and the importance of preserving our planet's natural wonders.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Berlin, our minds and hearts full of the magic of Lençóis Maranhenses. While this chapter of our adventure comes to an end, I know that there are many more waiting to be written. And who knows, perhaps someday we'll return to these shores, to once again wander among the dunes and lagoons of this extraordinary place.

Until then, adieu, Lençóis Maranhenses! Your beauty and spirit will forever be etched in our memories.

And to my readers, thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. I hope that our experiences have inspired you to explore the world, to embrace new cultures, and to travel with an open mind and a compassionate heart. Until next time, happy travels!

This trip, like all our travels, has added another layer to our lives back in Berlin. I can already envision sharing these stories with my ESL students, hoping to ignite their own wanderlust and broaden their understanding of the world. And Greta, I'm sure, will find ways to weave these experiences into her library programs, inspiring young readers to explore new horizons through the power of storytelling. Maybe we can even cook some Caribbean and Brazilian dishes for our friends, sharing the flavors of our adventure.

As I reflect on our journey, I realize that travel is more than just ticking off destinations on a list. It's about connecting with people, learning from different cultures, and challenging our own perspectives. It's about creating memories that will last a lifetime and returning home with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. And that, my friends, is the true magic of travel.