Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada Diamantina with Family

Whispers of Water and Stone

Today was a symphony of water, stone, and sunlight, a day where Chapada Diamantina National Park revealed more of its enchanting secrets. With my family in tow, I set out to explore two of its most talked-about waterfalls: Waterfall Buracão and Cachoeira da Primavera. Each promised a unique experience, a different facet of Brazil's natural beauty, and I was eager to capture it all through my lens and share it with you.

Our day began early with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Sabor da Serra. The kids, Aminata and Ibrahim, were particularly excited, fueled by the anticipation of swimming in natural pools. Fatoumata and I shared a knowing glance, already picturing the day's adventures and the memories we would create. After breakfast, we packed our essentials – sunscreen, water bottles, and of course, my trusty camera – and set off towards our first destination: Waterfall Buracão.


Discover the majestic Waterfall Buracão in Bahia's Chapada Diamantina: hike through stunning canyons and swim in the refreshing waters of this natural wonder.
The drive to Ibicoara, where the entrance to the Espalhado Municipal Natural Park and the trail to Buracão is located, was an adventure in itself. The landscape transformed from quaint town streets to rugged dirt roads, flanked by towering mountains. It reminded me of the landscapes back home in Mali, the stark beauty of the Sahel, but with a Brazilian twist. The kids were captivated, pointing out different rock formations and the occasional wildlife darting across the road.

The trail to Buracão was a mix of hiking and wading through the river. The kids were in their element, splashing and laughing as we navigated the rocky terrain. Even Fatoumata, who usually prefers a leisurely stroll, was invigorated by the challenge. The anticipation grew with each step, the sound of rushing water becoming more and more prominent. Along the way, we took a refreshing break at Cachoeira do Recanto Verde, a smaller, gentler waterfall that offered a perfect spot to cool off before continuing our trek.

Finally, we arrived at Buracão. The sight was simply breathtaking. An 80-meter cascade of water thundering into a dark pool below, framed by towering canyon walls. The sheer power and majesty of the waterfall were humbling. We donned our life jackets and ventured into the pool, swimming towards the base of the falls. The water was cold, but the experience was exhilarating. Standing beneath the cascading water, feeling its force, was like receiving a baptism from nature itself. I tried to capture the moment with my camera, but no photograph could truly do it justice.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After spending a good amount of time at Buracão, soaking in its beauty and energy, we began our trek back. The return journey was filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We had faced the challenge, witnessed something extraordinary, and shared it as a family. Back in Ibicoara, we enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Bahia.

With the afternoon sun casting long shadows, we drove back towards Lençóis, our next stop being Cachoeira da Primavera. Located closer to town, in the Parque Municipal da Muritiba, Primavera offered a different, more serene experience. The walk to the waterfall was short and easy, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. The trail meandered through lush vegetation, the air filled with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers.


Escape to Cachoeira da Primavera, a serene waterfall near Lençóis, offering refreshing waters and stunning views in Chapada Diamantina National Park.
Cachoeira da Primavera, or Spring Waterfall, lived up to its name. It was a gentle cascade, its waters flowing over moss-covered rocks into a series of small pools. The atmosphere was tranquil, almost magical. The kids immediately took to the water, exploring the little grottoes and rock formations around the falls. Fatoumata and I sat on a nearby rock, enjoying the peace and quiet, watching the children play. The journalist Vanessa Brunt described it as resembling an enchanted world, and I couldn't agree more. The setting felt like something out of a fairy tale, a hidden oasis of calm and beauty.

As the day drew to a close, we made a quick stop at Miscelania, a local shop in Lençóis. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remember our time in Chapada Diamantina. We found some beautiful handmade crafts, each piece telling a story of the region and its people. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Explore the vibrant culture of Bahia at Miscelania, where local crafts and artisanal treasures come together in a unique shopping experience.
For dinner, we returned to Restaurante Sabor da Serra, where we enjoyed another delicious meal. We recounted the day's adventures, sharing our favorite moments and laughing at our little mishaps. Aminata and Ibrahim were already fast asleep by the time we got back to our lodging, their dreams filled with waterfalls and canyons.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a day of connection – connection with nature, with each other, and with ourselves. It was a reminder of the simple joys in life, the beauty that surrounds us, and the importance of sharing it with those we love. As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for this experience. Chapada Diamantina National Park has a way of touching your soul, of leaving an indelible mark on your heart.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Pedra do Diamante and Serra das Paridas. I'm excited to see what other wonders this park holds in store. And perhaps, if we have time, we'll stop by Roots Bar for a taste of local nightlife. Until then, goodnight from Chapada Diamantina.

My journey continues, and I invite you to join me as I uncover more of Brazil's hidden gems. Stay tuned for more tales from the trail!