Family Adventure to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

A Day of Dunes and Delights

Today was nothing short of magical. The kind of day where the landscape feels like it’s been plucked straight from a dream, and the memories made will be cherished for a lifetime. It’s amazing how a place so different from my home in Heidelberg can feel so welcoming and invigorating all at once.

Our day began, as it has each morning here, with breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The simplicity of the meals here is part of their charm, offering a genuine taste of local life. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the famed Lagoa Bonita - Rota.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Lagoa Bonita - Rota, where breathtaking lagoons and stunning dunes await adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The journey itself was an adventure. Bouncing along the sandy tracks in a 4x4, Aisha giggled with every bump, her excitement mirroring my own. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure our camera gear was secure, but even he couldn't hide his awe as the landscape unfolded before us. The ride to Lagoa Bonita involved crossing the Preguiças River by ferry, followed by a trail through the vegetation. It took about an hour, and then we began our ascent up one of the dunes. It was a steep climb, and Aisha needed a little help from both Hans and myself, but the view from the top? Absolutely worth it.

From the summit, the vista was breathtaking. Lagoa Bonita stretched out before us, an oasis of crystal-clear waters nestled between the undulating white dunes. The effort of the climb seemed to melt away as we took in the panoramic view. Aisha was desperate to get into the water, so we quickly made our way down to the lagoon's edge. The water was cool and refreshing, a welcome contrast to the warm sun. We spent hours swimming, splashing, and simply floating, letting the tranquility of the surroundings wash over us.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses isn't just in its landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel connected to nature and to each other.

After our swim, we decided to explore the dunes surrounding the lagoon. Aisha, with her boundless energy, ran ahead, her laughter echoing across the sands. Hans and I followed at a more leisurely pace, snapping photos and marveling at the sheer scale of the landscape. It felt like we were the only people in the world, lost in our own private paradise. The dunes here are shaped by the wind into crescent shapes.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Vista Mar. While perhaps not as famous as Lagoa Bonita, it offered its own unique charm. The views from Vista Mar were stunning, providing a different perspective on the park's vastness. We found a quiet spot to sit and watch the sun begin its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a perfect moment of serenity, a reminder of the simple beauty that exists in the world.


Discover Vista Mar in Barreirinhas: Where coastal beauty meets the gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

Before heading back to our lodgings, we made a stop at Açaí sabor encanto dos lençóis. I had heard so much about this place, and I was eager to try their açaí bowls. We all ordered one, and it was a delightful treat. The açaí was rich and flavorful, topped with fresh fruits, granola, and honey. Aisha devoured hers in minutes, while Hans and I savored every spoonful. It was the perfect way to cool down and refuel after a day of exploring.


Discover the sweet flavors of Açaí Sabor Encanto dos Lençóis, a must-visit ice cream shop in Santo Amaro, Maranhão, perfect for cooling down after your adventures.

Dinner, once again, was at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. We enjoyed another simple but satisfying meal, sharing stories of our day's adventures. Aisha regaled us with tales of her daring dune runs, while Hans and I recounted our favorite photo moments. As we ate, we watched the locals gather, their laughter and chatter filling the air. It was a reminder that we were not just tourists here, but temporary members of a vibrant community.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and beautiful place, gratitude for the chance to share it with my family, and gratitude for the simple moments of joy that made it so special. I am also grateful that we decided to visit in November, as the rainy season has filled the lagoons, making the landscape even more spectacular.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Queimada dos Britos and Mirante das dunas de Vassouras. I’ve heard that Queimada dos Britos offers a fascinating glimpse into the local culture, and I'm eager to learn more about the history of this area. And, if time permits, we might just stop by Kayak Bar in the evening for a refreshing drink.

But for now, I'm content to sit here, listening to the sounds of the night, and dreaming of the dunes and lagoons that await us tomorrow. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, why I love to explore, and why I love to share my experiences with you all. Goodnight from Lençóis Maranhenses. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As an anthropologist, I am constantly seeking to understand the relationship between people and their environment. Here in Lençóis Maranhenses, that relationship is palpable. The local communities have adapted to this unique landscape in remarkable ways, and their traditions and way of life are deeply intertwined with the natural world.

Traveling with family adds another layer to the experience. Seeing Aisha's eyes light up as she discovers new things, sharing meals and stories with Hans – these are the moments that make travel so enriching. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about creating shared memories that will last a lifetime.

And of course, as a travel blogger, I am always on the lookout for those hidden gems, those off-the-beaten-path experiences that make a destination truly special. Açaí sabor encanto dos lençóis is definitely one of those gems. It's more than just an ice cream shop; it's a place where you can taste the flavors of Brazil and connect with the local culture.

So, if you're planning a trip to Lençóis Maranhenses, be sure to add these experiences to your itinerary. You won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe I'll see you on the dunes!

I am also reminded of the importance of sustainable tourism. It's crucial that we travel in a way that respects the environment and supports local communities. Here in Lençóis Maranhenses, there are many opportunities to do just that, from staying in locally owned guesthouses to purchasing handicrafts from local artisans.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I am filled with a sense of anticipation. I know that Lençóis Maranhenses has many more wonders to reveal, and I am eager to discover them all. And I promise to share every moment with you, my dear readers. So stay tuned, and let's continue this journey together.