Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada Diamantina with Family

A Day of Tranquility and Color

Today in Chapada Diamantina National Park was a blend of adventure and serenity, a true immersion into the natural wonders of this Brazilian paradise. From the challenging yet rewarding hike to Cachoeira do Sossego, to the mesmerizing colors of Salão das Areias Coloridas, every moment was a feast for the senses. It was a day where the beauty of nature reminded us of the simple joys of exploration and discovery.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Sabor da Serra. Fuelled up with local flavors, we set off for Cachoeira do Sossego. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape unfolding before us in all its September glory. The weather was warm and breezy, a perfect combination for a day of hiking. I made sure everyone applied sunscreen, remembering my promise to Fatoumata to keep us all protected from the strong Brazilian sun. The trailhead was buzzing with fellow adventurers, all eager to experience the famed waterfall. As we started our trek, the kids, Aminata and Ibrahim, were full of energy, scampering ahead with the enthusiasm only children can muster. The trail was indeed challenging, living up to its reputation. We hopped over rocks, navigated through narrow passages, and climbed small inclines. I was grateful for my hiking boots, a definite essential from our trip packing list. I chuckled, remembering the portable charger I had forgotten; thankfully, I charged my camera and phone last night, ready to capture the beauty around us.

The hike to Cachoeira do Sossego was more than just a physical challenge; it was an opportunity to connect with nature. The sounds of the forest, the scent of damp earth, and the sight of unique flora all contributed to an immersive experience. I made sure to take plenty of photos, capturing the vibrant greens of the vegetation and the unique rock formations along the way. Aminata was particularly fascinated by the different types of insects we encountered, while Ibrahim was more interested in climbing every rock he could find. Fatoumata and I shared knowing glances, marveling at our children's boundless curiosity.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that require a little effort; the tranquility of Cachoeira do Sossego was well worth the trek.

After a couple of hours, we finally reached Cachoeira do Sossego, and the sight was simply breathtaking. The waterfall cascaded down a multi-tiered rock face into a large, inviting pool. The water was cool and refreshing, a welcome reward after our strenuous hike. We spent a good hour swimming and relaxing in the pool, letting the cascading water massage our tired muscles. Even Ibrahim, who usually shies away from cold water, couldn't resist taking a dip. The joy on his face as he splashed around was priceless. As we relaxed by the waterfall, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that brought us here. From the bustling streets of Montreal to the serene landscapes of Chapada Diamantina, it was a world away from my software development work. Yet, in this moment, surrounded by my family and the beauty of nature, I felt a sense of peace and contentment that no amount of coding could ever provide.

Reluctantly, we started our trek back, knowing we had another destination to explore. The return journey was just as challenging, but the memory of the waterfall and the promise of more adventures kept us going. Back in Lençóis, we took a short break to freshen up before heading to our next destination: Salão das Areias Coloridas.


Discover the hidden paradise of Cachoeira do Sossego in Chapada Diamantina: a challenging hike to a rewarding waterfall oasis.

Salão das Areias Coloridas was a completely different experience. Unlike the natural formation of the waterfall, the colorful sands were a result of human intervention. Miners seeking diamonds had overturned the rocks, revealing layers of sand in various hues. The result was a mesmerizing display of colors – pink, white, red, green, yellow, and lilac – all spread across the floor of the cavern.
The kids were immediately captivated by the vibrant colors, running from one section to another, pointing out their favorite shades. It felt like stepping into an artist's palette, with nature as the canvas. I explained to them how the different colors were formed by various minerals in the soil, turning it into a mini-science lesson amidst our adventure. We learned that the extraction of the sands is now prohibited, preserving the site for future generations.
As we explored the Salão, I couldn't help but think of my home in Montreal. While I love the city's vibrant culture and modern amenities, there's something truly special about being in a place like Chapada Diamantina, where nature reigns supreme. It's a reminder that there's a whole world out there waiting to be explored, and that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that take us out of our comfort zones.


Discover the vibrant Salão das Areias Coloridas in Lençóis, Bahia: a natural masterpiece of multicolored sands and sculpted rock formations.

Before leaving, we stopped by Artesanatos da Elismoni, a local shop, to pick up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful piece of handcrafted jewelry for Fatoumata, a reminder of our Brazilian adventure. The kids chose small trinkets, tokens of their time exploring the colorful sands.
For dinner, we returned to Restaurante Sabor da Serra, where we enjoyed another delicious meal of local cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with fellow travelers sharing stories of their adventures. As we ate, we recounted our own experiences of the day, laughing and reminiscing about the challenges and triumphs of our hike and the beauty of the colorful sands.
As the day drew to a close, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared as a family. Chapada Diamantina had exceeded all my expectations, offering a unique blend of adventure, serenity, and natural beauty. The warm September weather had been perfect, and the memories we made would last a lifetime.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit Museu do Garimpeiro and Cachoeira Mixila. I'm particularly interested in learning more about the mining history of the region, and I know the kids will love another waterfall. Perhaps we'll even stop by Quinca's Botequim for a relaxing drink in the evening.
As I write this, I'm already looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery. Chapada Diamantina has a way of captivating the soul, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.
One thing I know for sure: this trip has been a reminder of the importance of disconnecting from the digital world and reconnecting with nature and family. It's a lesson I hope to carry with me long after we leave this Brazilian paradise. Perhaps I’ll even try to incorporate some of these natural color palettes into my software designs when I return to Montreal!