Exploring the Natural Wonders of Chapada Diamantina with Family

A Day of Enchantment and Panoramic Views

Today was nothing short of magical, a true immersion into the heart of Bahia's natural wonders. After nearly two weeks in Chapada Diamantina National Park, I thought I had seen it all, but today proved me wonderfully wrong. The family and I set out early, eager to explore the famed Poço Encantado and the rugged landscapes of Toca da Onça.

Our day began, as most days here do, with a simple breakfast amidst the sounds of the park. We savored fresh fruits and strong Brazilian coffee, fueling up for the adventures that awaited us. Aminata and Ibrahim were especially excited, their curiosity about the enchanted well bubbling over as we packed our essentials – sunscreen, water, and of course, my trusty camera. It’s moments like these, sharing the beauty of the world with my family, that make all the travel worthwhile. I can't help but think of my childhood in Goundam, Mali, and how much I would have loved to experience something like this back then. Now, seeing my children's faces light up with every new discovery fills me with immense joy.

The drive to Poço Encantado was an experience in itself. The landscape transformed from the familiar trails of the park to a more secluded, almost mystical setting. As we approached, the anticipation grew. We parked the car and walked the short distance to the cave entrance. The air was cool and damp, a welcome contrast to the Bahia sunshine. Stepping inside, we were immediately greeted by the breathtaking sight of Poço Encantado.


Discover Poço Encantado: A mesmerizing natural wonder in Bahia with crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning sunbeam displays.
The pool, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, was mesmerizing. Sunlight streamed through a narrow opening, casting an ethereal glow that illuminated the depths of the cave. It felt like stepping into another world. The kids were speechless, their eyes wide with wonder. Even Fatoumata, who usually prefers the comfort of a good book, was captivated by the scene. I busied myself with my camera, trying to capture the magic of the moment, the way the light danced on the water, the reflections on the cave walls. While swimming isn’t allowed in Poço Encantado, the sheer beauty of the place was enough to leave us spellbound. The depth of the well, ranging from 20 to 60 meters, allowed us to clearly see everything below the surface.

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

After spending a good hour soaking in the beauty of Poço Encantado, we headed towards our next destination: Toca da Onça. The drive took us through winding roads and offered stunning views of the Chapada Diamantina landscape. Toca da Onça, known as a natural balcony in Lençóis, promised panoramic vistas of the Capivara and Capivari rivers. The name itself, meaning Jaguar's Lair, added an element of intrigue to our adventure.


Discover breathtaking panoramic views of the Capivara and Capivari rivers from this natural lookout in Lençóis, Bahia. A must-see in Chapada Diamantina.
Upon arriving at Toca da Onça, we were greeted by a short but invigorating hike to the viewpoint. The trail was surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing the region's rich biodiversity. Aminata and Ibrahim, always eager to explore, led the way, pointing out various plants and insects. It was a great opportunity to teach them about the local flora and fauna, connecting them even more deeply with nature. The hike reminded me of the vibrant landscapes of Mali, although the vegetation here was distinctly Brazilian.

Reaching the top, we were rewarded with a breathtaking view. The Capivara and Capivari rivers snaked through the valleys below, framed by dramatic cliffs and rolling hills. The vastness of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of the immense power and beauty of nature. I set up my camera and took several shots, trying to capture the panoramic vista. Fatoumata and the kids found a comfortable spot to sit and simply take in the view. We spent a long time there, just enjoying the serenity and the stunning scenery.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Lençóis, stopping briefly at Paraibar for a refreshing end-of-day drink. The bar was lively, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. We sipped on caipirinhas, sharing stories and laughter, the perfect end to a perfect day. The kids, tired but happy, were already fast asleep by the time we got back to our accommodation.


Discover the enchanting blend of dining and dancing at Paraibar, the ultimate nightlife destination in Lençóis, Bahia.
Sitting here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Poço Encantado and Toca da Onça were both incredible in their own unique ways, offering a glimpse into the natural wonders of Chapada Diamantina. It’s experiences like these that reinforce why I started this blog in the first place – to share the beauty of the world with others and inspire them to explore and appreciate the diversity of our planet.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our family adventure in Chapada Diamantina National Park. We plan to visit Cachoeira da Fumacinha, a waterfall I've heard is absolutely stunning. We'll also stop by Artesanato Natureza Criativa to pick up some souvenirs before we head back to Salvador.

As I reflect on our journey, I realize how much this trip has meant to us. It's not just about seeing beautiful places; it's about creating memories, strengthening bonds, and connecting with nature. It’s about teaching my children to appreciate the world around them and to embrace new experiences with open hearts. These are the lessons I hope they will carry with them throughout their lives, a reminder of the incredible adventures we shared in Chapada Diamantina. And who knows, maybe one day, they'll be writing their own travel blogs, sharing their own stories with the world.