Family Adventure to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

First Impressions: Lençóis Maranhenses Beckons

Today marked the beginning of our family adventure in Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses, and I can already tell this will be an experience we'll treasure forever. The sheer beauty of this place is overwhelming, a surreal landscape that feels like another planet. The excitement is palpable as we set out to explore this natural wonder.


Explore Brazil's surreal desert oasis: vast dunes, crystal lagoons, and breathtaking beauty in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

Our journey from Heidelberg to São Luís was long, but the anticipation kept us going. Aisha was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as we boarded the final leg of our flight. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure we had everything in order, from our documents to the all-important sunscreen. We landed in São Luís, the capital of Maranhão, and immediately felt the warmth of the Brazilian sun on our skin. The drive to Lençóis Maranhenses was an adventure in itself, with the landscape gradually transforming from bustling cityscapes to serene, untouched nature. The anticipation grew with every kilometer, and soon, the first glimpses of the park's iconic white dunes appeared on the horizon.

We arrived at the Portal de Lençóis Maranhenses, the official gateway to this stunning national park. The sight that greeted us was breathtaking: vast, undulating dunes stretching as far as the eye could see, interspersed with crystal-clear lagoons. It felt like stepping into a dream, a world of endless possibilities and natural beauty. Aisha was ecstatic, running ahead to feel the soft sand between her toes. Hans and I exchanged a look of shared excitement, knowing that this was the start of something truly special.


Discover the best access point to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, offering stunning dunes, lagoons, and unforgettable natural experiences in Santo Amaro.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses lies in its simplicity—endless sand dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, and oases appearing out of nowhere.

Our first stop was the Povoado de Ponta Verde, a charming village that would be our base for the day. We settled into a simple yet comfortable pousada, eager to immerse ourselves in the local culture. For breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we enjoyed the local cuisine at the Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The flavors were rich and authentic, a delightful introduction to Brazilian gastronomy. Aisha particularly loved the fresh fruit juices, while Hans savored the traditional rice and beans. I enjoyed the fresh seafood, a testament to the region's coastal location. The warmth of the local people made us feel instantly at home, their smiles as radiant as the Brazilian sun.


Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde in Santo Amaro do Maranhão—where every dish is a journey through local flavors.

After lunch, we ventured out to explore the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses. The sheer scale of the park is awe-inspiring, a testament to the power of nature. The sand dunes, formed over centuries by strong winds, create a surreal landscape that shifts with the light. We walked barefoot, feeling the soft, warm sand beneath our feet, a sensation that was both grounding and liberating. Aisha delighted in rolling down the dunes, her laughter echoing through the tranquil surroundings. Hans, with his keen eye for detail, captured the stunning scenery with his camera, preserving these precious moments for years to come.

As we explored, we discovered hidden lagoons, each one a unique oasis of crystal-clear water. The water was cool and refreshing, a welcome respite from the warm sun. Aisha couldn't resist taking a dip, splashing and playing with abandon. Hans and I joined her, relishing the joy of being together in such a magical place. The lagoons are filled with rainwater during the rainy season, creating these temporary pools of life amidst the desert landscape. It's a delicate ecosystem, a reminder of the resilience and beauty of nature.

In the late afternoon, we visited Casa Da Castanha E Artesanato, a local shop where we purchased some souvenirs to remind us of our trip. I bought a beautiful handcrafted bracelet, while Hans chose a traditional woven bag. Aisha picked out a small, colorful toy, a memento of her adventures in the dunes. Supporting local artisans is important to us, a way of giving back to the communities that welcome us with such warmth and hospitality. The shop was filled with unique treasures, each one telling a story of the region's culture and heritage. I was particularly drawn to the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the local crafts, a reflection of the spirit and creativity of the people of Maranhão.


Explore the charm of Barreirinhas at Casa Da Castanha E Artesanato, where local craftsmanship meets unique home goods in a delightful shopping experience.

As the sun began to set, we found a high dune to watch the spectacle. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. The dunes glowed in the fading light, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. We sat in silence, holding hands, as we watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape. It was a moment of pure magic, a perfect ending to our first day in Lençóis Maranhenses.

Back at the pousada, we enjoyed a simple yet delicious dinner, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. Aisha, tired from her day of adventures, fell asleep quickly, her face flushed with happiness. Hans and I sat on the porch, sipping caipirinhas and reflecting on the day's experiences. We talked about the beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the joy of being together as a family. We felt grateful for this opportunity to explore such a unique and special place, a chance to disconnect from our daily routines and connect with nature and each other.

The air was filled with the sounds of the night, the chirping of crickets and the distant murmur of voices. I felt a sense of peace and contentment, a feeling that I knew would stay with me long after we left Lençóis Maranhenses. As I looked up at the stars, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe at the vastness of the universe. It was a reminder of our place in the world, a small but significant part of something much larger than ourselves.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reviewed our plans for tomorrow. We will be venturing towards Dunas de Atins and Canto de Atins. I am particularly excited about visiting Charme Beach Bar | Atins. I think it will be a welcome respite after a day of exploring. I am also looking forward to seeing more of the local culture and perhaps trying some new dishes.

As I closed my eyes, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Lençóis Maranhenses had already captured my heart, and I knew that the days to come would be filled with even more adventures and unforgettable memories. I am so glad that we decided to come here, to experience this unique landscape and to create lasting memories with my family. It's a reminder of the importance of travel, of exploring new cultures and connecting with nature. And as I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of endless dunes, crystal-clear lagoons, and the warm, welcoming smiles of the people of Maranhão.

I'm especially glad I remembered to pack sunscreen, even though I forgot the mosquito repellent and travel pillow. Aisha will definitely remind me to pack the mosquito repellent next time. It is experiences like these that make travel so rewarding, a chance to learn, grow, and connect with the world around us. And as I prepare for another day of exploration, I know that Lençóis Maranhenses will continue to surprise and delight me, revealing its secrets one dune at a time.