Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada Diamantina with Family

A Day of Subterranean Wonders and Local Festivities

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of the serene darkness of caves and the vibrant energy of a local festival. Chapada Diamantina continues to surprise and enchant us, revealing different facets of its beauty and culture. It's moments like these that make our family trips so memorable, creating stories we'll share for years to come.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Sabor da Serra. This place has quickly become a family favorite, with its simple yet delicious fare that fuels us up perfectly for our adventures. After breakfast, we set off for Lapa Doce Cave.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lapa Doce Cave in Chapada Diamantina, Brazil, with its stunning rock formations and rich geological history.
The drive there was beautiful, winding through the park's stunning landscapes. The anticipation was building, especially for the kids, who were excited to explore a real cave.

Arriving at Lapa Doce, I was immediately struck by the sheer size of the entrance. It felt like stepping into another world. The cave is part of a larger cave system, and it's known for its impressive geological formations. We met our guide, who was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the cave's history and geology. As we ventured inside, the temperature dropped noticeably, and the sunlight faded, replaced by the soft glow of our headlamps. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional drip of water and our hushed voices.

The cave was breathtaking. Stalactites hung from the ceiling like frozen waterfalls, and stalagmites rose from the ground, creating a surreal landscape. The kids were fascinated, pointing out shapes and figures in the rock formations. Our guide explained how these formations were created over thousands of years, drop by drop, a testament to the slow, powerful forces of nature. Aminata, ever the curious one, kept asking questions about the different types of rocks and minerals. Ibrahim, on the other hand, was more interested in spotting bats, though we didn't see any during our visit.

One of the highlights of Lapa Doce was the 'salão,' a large chamber with towering ceilings and intricate rock formations. It felt like being inside a cathedral, a natural sanctuary carved out by time and water. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, but some scenes are simply too grand to be captured in a photograph. You have to be there, to feel the coolness of the air, to hear the silence, to truly appreciate the scale and wonder of it all.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After our subterranean adventure, we emerged from Lapa Doce, blinking in the bright sunlight. It was quite a contrast to the darkness of the cave, and it took a few moments for our eyes to adjust. We decided to have a picnic lunch right there at Chapada Diamantina National Park.


Discover the natural wonders of Chapada Diamantina National Park – a breathtaking blend of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and adventure.
Fatoumata had packed sandwiches, fruits, and some Malian snacks, which we enjoyed while sitting on a large rock, surrounded by the park's stunning scenery. It was a simple meal, but the setting made it feel like a feast.

In the afternoon, we decided to experience some local culture by attending the Corridas de Montanha.


Experience the thrill of trail running amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Chapada Diamantina. Join Corridas de Montanha for an unforgettable adventure!
It turned out to be quite an event. The atmosphere was electric, with music, food stalls, and crowds of people cheering on the runners. We watched as athletes of all ages and abilities tackled the challenging mountain trails. The energy was infectious, and even the kids got caught up in the excitement, waving flags and shouting encouragement. It was a great opportunity to see the community come together, celebrating sports and local traditions. I even managed to try some local delicacies from one of the food stalls – a savory pastry filled with cheese and spices that was absolutely delicious.

After the Corridas de Montanha, we stopped by CHAPADA STORE.


Explore the best of tobacco culture at Chapada Store - a unique destination for aficionados and casual shoppers in the heart of the region.
I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home. The store had a great selection of local crafts, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles. I ended up buying a beautiful woven tapestry depicting the landscapes of Chapada Diamantina. Fatoumata found a delicate silver necklace, and the kids picked out some colorful bracelets. It was nice to support the local artisans and find items that would remind us of our time here.

For dinner, we returned to Restaurante Sabor da Serra. After a day of exploring and excitement, we were all quite tired and hungry. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some local specialties. The food was comforting and satisfying, the perfect end to a busy day. As we ate, we shared our favorite moments from the day, laughing and reminiscing. It's these shared experiences that strengthen our bond as a family and create lasting memories.

As the day winds down, I'm reflecting on the diverse experiences we had today. From the depths of Lapa Doce Cave to the heights of the Corridas de Montanha, Chapada Diamantina has shown us its many faces. It's a place of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm, welcoming people. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Poço Encantado and Toca da Onça. Poço Encantado, or the Enchanted Well, is supposed to be an incredible underground lake with crystal-clear water. I’ve heard the sunlight creates an amazing spectacle inside the cave. Toca da Onça, or the Jaguar's Lair, is another cave known for its interesting rock formations and, as the name suggests, its history as a jaguar's habitat. We are also planning to have breakfast at Chapada Diamantina National Park, lunch at Restaurante Sabor da Serra and dinner at Chapada Diamantina National Park, to enjoy the nature around us.

I’m looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this amazing place. Goodnight from Chapada Diamantina!

This trip has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and each other, and I am already looking forward to the next adventure. As we prepare for our final days in Chapada Diamantina, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we have shared and the memories we have created. It's moments like these that make our family trips so special, and I know that we will cherish them for years to come.