Exploring the Sand Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses

Swinging into Serenity: A Day on Monkey Island

As an ESL teacher from Berlin, I'm always seeking new ways to connect with people and places. Today was one of those days where the connection felt effortless, almost magical. Leaving the familiar landscapes of Europe behind, I found myself immersed in a world where golden dunes met curious monkeys, and the rhythm of the river set the pace for a day of simple joys. It was a day of unexpected encounters and serene beauty, a perfect blend of nature and culture that reminded me why I love to travel.

Our fourth day in Lençóis Maranhenses began with the sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Greta and I enjoyed breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. Fuelled with local flavors, we set off to explore Vassouras, a charming village that promised a unique blend of dunes, river, and wildlife.


Discover Vassouras: A serene village with stunning dunes, refreshing lagoons, and playful monkeys on the Preguiças River.

The boat ride to Vassouras was an experience in itself. Gliding along the Preguiças River, we were surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil sounds of nature. The river, a vital waterway, teemed with life, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me. It's fascinating how different this landscape is from the bustling streets of Berlin; a welcome change of pace.

As we approached Vassouras, the landscape began to transform. The golden dunes of the Pequenos Lençóis came into view, a stunning contrast to the white sands we had explored earlier. These dunes, shaped by the relentless winds, had a unique charm, their yellowish hue setting them apart.

Stepping onto the shore, we were greeted by the playful inhabitants of Vassouras: the curious monkeys. These little guys were quite the characters, approaching visitors with a mix of boldness and caution. I remembered the advice we’d received – no candies or inappropriate food ! Fortunately, the local stalls offered bananas and coconuts, which seemed to be a hit with our new simian friends.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are the ones where you simply let go and allow yourself to be present in the moment.

Greta, with her gentle nature, was an instant hit with the monkeys. They clambered onto her shoulders, their tiny hands curiously exploring her hair. It was a heartwarming sight, and I couldn't resist capturing the moment with my camera, hoping to add another cherished photograph to our collection.

After our monkey encounter, we hiked to Mirante das dunas de Vassouras. The view from the top was breathtaking. The landscape stretched out before us, a mesmerizing mix of dunes, river, and sky. I took a moment to appreciate the sheer beauty of this place, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural wonders.


Discover golden dunes, refreshing lagoons, and playful monkeys at Mirante das Dunas de Vassouras, a unique oasis within Lençóis Maranhenses.

We spent the afternoon exploring the dunes, feeling the warm sand beneath our feet. The August sun was intense, but a refreshing dip in one of the bathing ponds near the riverbank provided the perfect respite. The water was cool and clear, a welcome contrast to the heat.

For lunch, we headed back to the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. This restaurant, nestled in the heart of the village, offered a taste of authentic Brazilian cuisine. We savored the flavors of local dishes, enjoying the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

Before leaving Vassouras, we stopped by Casa Da Castanha E Artesanato. I was keen to pick up a few souvenirs, and this shop seemed like the perfect place. The shop was filled with local crafts, each piece telling a story of the region's culture and traditions. I purchased a beautifully handcrafted item made from buriti, a palm tree that is abundant in this area. It was a small token of our time in Vassouras, a reminder of the monkeys, dunes, and river dreams that had filled our day.


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 boarded the boat back to our accommodation. The sunset over the Preguiças River was a sight to behold, the sky ablaze with vibrant colors. I leaned back, feeling content and grateful for the experiences of the day.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Beira do Rio Ribeira and Lagoa Alaris, hoping for more unforgettable moments in this incredible landscape. Perhaps we’ll even grab a drink at Kayak Bar.

Back at our pousada, I reflected on the day's adventures. Vassouras had been a delightful surprise, a place where nature and culture intertwined seamlessly. The monkeys had brought a sense of playfulness, the dunes a sense of wonder, and the river a sense of peace. It was a day that had touched my soul, reminding me of the simple joys of travel and the importance of connecting with the world around us. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, already looking forward to the next chapter of our Lençóis Maranhenses adventure.

And as I think about the people I've met, from fellow travelers to the locals who call this place home, I'm reminded of why I started this blog in the first place: to share stories, connect with others, and celebrate the beauty of our world. Each day here offers a new perspective, a new lesson, and a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of human experience. And that, my friends, is a gift beyond measure.