Family Adventure to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Whispers of the Dunes

Today, I embarked on a serene journey into the heart of Lençóis Maranhenses, a landscape that continues to surprise and enchant me. It was a day of gentle exploration, connecting with nature's artistry, and discovering the quiet beauty hidden within the smaller, often overlooked corners of this vast paradise. Every step was a reminder of the simple joys of travel and the profound peace found in nature's embrace.

Our sixth day in Lençóis Maranhenses began with the rising sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. After a hearty breakfast at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, Aisha, Hans, and I set out to explore the Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses. The anticipation was palpable as we drove towards this lesser-known part of the national park, a hidden gem promising a more intimate experience with the dunes. Unlike the expansive Grande Lençóis, Pequenos Lençóis offers a chance to wander through smaller, more manageable dunes, perfect for a family adventure.


Discover the serene beauty of Pequenos Lençóis Maranhenses: a stunning landscape of dunes and lagoons in Maranhão, Brazil. An unforgettable escape.
As we arrived, the landscape unfolded before us like a dream. Rolling sand dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, their pristine white surface contrasting sharply with the clear blue sky. The wind whispered secrets as it danced across the sand, creating ever-changing patterns that captivated Aisha's imagination. She ran ahead, her laughter echoing through the tranquil air, eager to conquer each new peak. Hans and I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the breathtaking views and capturing the moments with my camera. The November sun was warm, but a gentle breeze kept us comfortable as we traversed the dunes.

The beauty of Pequenos Lençóis lies in its simplicity. The dunes are smaller, but no less stunning, offering a more personal connection with the landscape. We spent hours exploring, climbing to the top of the dunes, and then sliding down, the soft sand cushioning our every move. Aisha discovered a particular joy in rolling down the slopes, her giggles infectious as she tumbled towards the bottom. Hans and I joined in, momentarily forgetting our adult responsibilities and embracing the carefree spirit of childhood.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After our playful escapades on the dunes, we made our way to the Piscinas naturais, natural pools nestled between the dunes. These pools, formed by the rainwater collected during the rainy season, offered a refreshing respite from the warm sun. The water was crystal clear, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its coolness. Aisha was the first to jump in, her squeals of delight echoing through the air. Hans and I soon followed, reveling in the invigorating water. We swam, splashed, and simply floated, allowing the gentle currents to carry us along.


Discover the serene beauty of Barreirinhas' Piscinas Naturais, a hidden paradise of crystal-clear pools nestled in Maranhão's stunning landscapes.
As we relaxed in the natural pools, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought us here. Leaving Koumpentoum, Senegal, and making a life in Heidelberg, Germany, had been a transformative experience. Yet, amidst the cultural shifts and new beginnings, my love for nature and exploration had remained constant. Sharing this passion with my family in a place as extraordinary as Lençóis Maranhenses felt incredibly fulfilling. It was a reminder that no matter where life takes us, the beauty of the natural world is a universal language that connects us all.

Lunch was another delightful experience at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, where we savored traditional Brazilian cuisine. The flavors were rich and satisfying, providing us with the energy we needed for the rest of our day's adventures. Aisha, always eager to try new things, surprised us by devouring a plate of Moqueca de Camarão, a flavorful shrimp stew that quickly became her favorite.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we decided to visit Bar do Seu Nita for a refreshing drink. This local bar, known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly service, was the perfect place to unwind and soak in the local culture. We sipped on ice-cold Guarana while chatting with the locals, learning more about their way of life and their connection to the land. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, making us feel like part of the community.


Discover the lively ambiance and authentic Brazilian drinks at Bar do Seu Nita, the heart of Santo Amaro do Maranhão's nightlife.
As the day drew to a close, we gathered on one of the dunes to watch the sunset. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, painting the landscape in hues of gold, orange, and purple. It was a breathtaking sight, one that filled us with a sense of awe and gratitude. Aisha snuggled between Hans and me, her eyes wide with wonder as she witnessed the spectacle. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the love of my family, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the simple yet profound beauty of Pequenos Lençóis and the natural pools. These hidden gems offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature on a more intimate level, away from the crowds and the noise. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and connection, one that will forever hold a special place in my heart. The memories we created today are treasures that we will carry with us long after we leave Lençóis Maranhenses.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Cabure and the Parque Eólico Caburé. I am excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue our journey through this remarkable national park. Until then, I will cherish the memories of today, the whispers of the dunes, and the refreshing embrace of the natural pools.

Back at our pousada, as Aisha drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. These moments, far removed from our daily routines in Heidelberg, are what truly matter. It's about connecting with nature, embracing new cultures, and creating lasting memories with my family. And as I look forward to tomorrow's adventures, I know that Lençóis Maranhenses will continue to surprise and inspire us in ways we never imagined.

As I prepare for our next adventure, I realize that I forgot to pack mosquito repellent, which is proving to be quite a nuisance in the evenings. I also wish I had brought a travel pillow for the long drives and a more comprehensive first aid kit. These are small oversights, but they serve as a reminder that even the most well-planned trips can have their hiccups. Nevertheless, these minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the joy and wonder that Lençóis Maranhenses has brought us.

Before heading to bed, I took a moment to browse through some local travel blogs to see what others had experienced in Lençóis Maranhenses. It's always interesting to read different perspectives and discover hidden gems that we might have missed. I also checked the weather forecast for tomorrow, ensuring that we are prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store for us. With that, I bid you goodnight, dear readers, and look forward to sharing more of our adventures with you tomorrow.

We ended the day with another delightful dinner at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, savoring the flavors of Brazil one last time before turning in for the night. The sounds of the evening were filled with music and laughter, a perfect end to a perfect day. I am so grateful for this experience and the opportunity to share it with all of you.

And with that, I bid you goodnight, dear readers. May your dreams be filled with the whispers of the dunes and the magic of Lençóis Maranhenses.