Exploring the Sand Dunes and Lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses

Finding Paradise in Ponta Verde

After six days of marveling at the ever-shifting dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses, today promised a deeper dive into the heart of this natural wonder. We planned to spend the day exploring the area around Povoado de Ponta Verde, a small community nestled within the park itself. I was eager to experience the local culture and witness firsthand how life thrives in this unique environment.


Explore Brazil's surreal desert oasis: vast dunes, crystal lagoons, and breathtaking beauty in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

The day began as most do here, with the sun blazing in the sky. August in Lençóis Maranhenses is hot, with temperatures usually around 32°C, but the breeze keeps it bearable. After a quick breakfast, Greta and I set off to explore the area. The plan was simple: immerse ourselves in the landscape, connect with the locals, and savor every moment.

Our first stop was a small, family-run restaurant in Povoado de Ponta Verde, where we enjoyed a hearty Brazilian breakfast. I always appreciate how food can connect you to a place, and this morning was no different. The flavors were simple, honest, and delicious. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. The restaurant was simple, yet authentic, offering a taste of local life that I always seek when traveling. It was a reminder that the best experiences often come from the simplest of places. I was so happy to share this with Greta.


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.

The morning was spent wandering through the dunes, marveling at the seemingly endless expanse of white sand. The lagoons, still full from the rainy season, sparkled like jewels scattered across the landscape. We took our time, snapping photos and simply soaking in the tranquility. It’s amazing how quickly you can lose yourself in a place like this, where the only sounds are the wind and the occasional call of a bird. The remoteness of Lençóis Maranhenses is part of its charm. There are no roads within the park itself, so getting around requires a 4x4 vehicle or, like us, a willingness to explore on foot.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses isn't just in its landscape, but in the way it makes you feel – small, yet connected, to something much larger than yourself.

For lunch, we returned to the same restaurant where we had breakfast. We were looking forward to another taste of authentic Maranhenses cuisine. I decided to try the Camarão da Malásia (Malaysian Prawns) which was recommended to me, while Greta opted for the Moqueca de Siri (Crab Stew). Both dishes were incredible, bursting with flavor and cooked with love. It’s these simple, genuine experiences that make traveling so rewarding. Sharing a meal with Greta, surrounded by the stunning scenery of Lençóis Maranhenses, is a memory I will cherish forever.

After lunch, we continued our exploration, venturing deeper into the park. We visited Lagoa do Reflexo, one of the largest and deepest lagoons in the area. The water was crystal clear and perfect for swimming. We spent a blissful hour floating in the cool water, gazing up at the bright blue sky. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. As I floated there, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and beautiful place. I thought about my students back in Berlin, many of whom come from countries where such experiences are only a distant dream. It reinforced my commitment to sharing these stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Rancho dos Lençóis, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of ice-cold Brazilian beers while chatting with some of the locals. It was a great way to learn more about the culture and way of life in Lençóis Maranhenses. I always find that connecting with people is one of the most enriching aspects of travel. Hearing their stories, sharing their laughter, and gaining insight into their perspectives broadens my understanding of the world.


Experience the authentic flavors of Maranhão at Rancho dos Lençóis, a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking culinary adventure.

The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across the dunes. We found a high vantage point and watched in awe as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. Sunsets in Lençóis Maranhenses are truly magical, and tonight’s was no exception. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. As the last rays of sunlight faded away, we made our way back to our pousada, our hearts full of gratitude and wonder. We had spent the day immersed in the beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses, connecting with the land and its people. It was an experience that will stay with us long after we leave.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Caburé and Parque Eólico Caburé. I've heard wonderful things about the beaches and the unique landscape. I am particularly interested in the Parque Eólico Caburé, as I've always been fascinated by sustainable energy. I am also looking forward to visiting Bar da Vaca in the evening. I heard they make a great Caipirinha.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures, connecting with people, and discovering something new about myself. Lençóis Maranhenses has a way of stripping away the superficial and revealing the raw, authentic beauty of the world. It's a place that nourishes the soul and inspires the heart. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it with my wonderful wife, Greta. Every moment spent here is a treasure, a memory etched in my heart forever. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine