Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada Diamantina with Family

Farewell to the Falls

Today marked the end of our incredible journey through Chapada Diamantina National Park. As we prepared to leave this natural paradise, we decided to embark on one last adventure, a challenging yet rewarding hike to Cachoeira da Fumacinha. It was a day filled with stunning landscapes, a bit of physical exertion, and plenty of family bonding, making it a perfect farewell to this beautiful region of Brazil.

Our day began early at Restaurante Sabor da Serra, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast. The familiar flavors and warm atmosphere set a positive tone for the day ahead. Fuelling up was essential, as we knew the hike to Cachoeira da Fumacinha would be demanding. We packed our essentials – water, sunscreen, and of course, my camera – ensuring we were well-prepared for the trail.

The drive to the trailhead was scenic, passing through the charming landscapes surrounding Ibicoara. The anticipation grew as we got closer, the kids especially excited about the prospect of seeing one of Chapada Diamantina's most famous waterfalls. I always appreciate these moments of shared excitement; it reminds me why I love travelling with my family so much.

The trailhead at Baixão marked the official start of our adventure. The initial stretch was relatively gentle, allowing us to warm up our muscles and soak in the surroundings. The landscape was classic Chapada Diamantina – vast canyons, towering rock formations, and lush vegetation clinging to the cliffs.

As we ventured deeper, the trail became more challenging. There were rocky sections that required careful foot placement, and a few river crossings that added an element of fun (and a bit of coolness!) to the hike. Aminata and Ibrahim took it all in stride, their youthful energy seemingly boundless. Fatoumata and I kept a close watch, making sure they navigated the trickier parts safely. I even had to carry Ibrahim on my back for a particularly steep climb, which, I must admit, made me feel quite the Malian mountaineer!

Sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the most breathtaking destinations.

Along the way, we encountered fellow hikers, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement. It's always heartening to see others drawn to the same natural wonders, sharing the same sense of awe and appreciation. We even met a local guide who shared some interesting facts about the region's flora and fauna, enriching our experience even further.

The final stretch of the hike involved navigating through a narrow canyon, the walls rising dramatically on either side. The air grew cooler, and the sound of rushing water became increasingly prominent. It was clear we were getting close.

And then, there it was – Cachoeira da Fumacinha. The sight was truly breathtaking. A long cascade of water plunging down a towering rock face, surrounded by the dramatic, spectacular scenery of the region's canyons. The sheer scale of the waterfall was humbling, and the power of nature on full display.


Discover Cachoeira da Fumacinha: A stunning waterfall in Chapada Diamantina offering adventure and breathtaking natural beauty.

We spent a good hour simply taking in the view, snapping photos, and letting the mist from the waterfall cool our faces. The kids were mesmerized, their earlier fatigue forgotten in the face of such natural beauty. I felt a profound sense of satisfaction, knowing that we had conquered this challenging hike as a family, creating a memory that would last a lifetime.

After savoring the moment, we began the trek back. The return journey, while still demanding, felt easier, perhaps fueled by the satisfaction of reaching our destination. We took our time, enjoying the scenery from a different perspective and reflecting on the incredible experience we had just shared.

Back in Ibicoara, we stopped by Artesanato Natureza Criativa, a local shop showcasing the region's handicrafts. We picked up a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time in Chapada Diamantina. I was particularly drawn to a beautifully carved wooden sculpture, a piece that seemed to capture the essence of the park's raw beauty and artistic soul.


Discover unique handcrafted home goods at Artesanato Natureza Criativa, a hidden gem in Mucugê, Bahia that showcases the artistry of local artisans.

For our final dinner, we returned to Restaurante Sabor da Serra. The comforting atmosphere and delicious food were the perfect way to cap off our adventure. We recounted our favorite moments from the trip, laughing and reminiscing about the challenges we had overcome and the wonders we had witnessed.

As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I feel a mix of emotions. Gratitude for the incredible experiences we've had in Chapada Diamantina. A sense of accomplishment for conquering the Fumacinha hike. And a tinge of sadness that our journey is coming to an end. But most of all, I feel a deep sense of connection with my family, strengthened by the shared adventures and memories we've created.

Chapada Diamantina has truly been a special place, a natural paradise that has captured our hearts and souls. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have explored it with my loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to head back to Montreal, I know that a part of us will always remain in this beautiful corner of Brazil.

And who knows, perhaps one day we'll return to discover even more of its hidden treasures. Until then, I'll cherish the memories and share the stories of our Chapada Diamantina adventure with the world. Au revoir, Chapada Diamantina. Thank you for the adventure.