Family Adventure to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Saying Goodbye to Paradise

As our incredible journey through Lençóis Maranhenses National Park draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the experiences that have shaped our adventure. Today, our last day, we explored the charming town of Santo Amaro, a place that encapsulates the serene beauty and simple life of this unique region. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing that our time here is ending, but I am filled with gratitude for the memories we've created.

The morning began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde, a local gem that has become our go-to spot. Aisha was particularly excited for the fresh fruit and pancakes, a welcome treat before our day's explorations. Hans and I enjoyed some strong Brazilian coffee, fortifying ourselves for a day of walking and soaking in the local atmosphere. The weather in November is wonderfully warm, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C, perfect for strolling through the town. There's a gentle breeze that makes the heat manageable, and the sky is mostly clear, allowing for some beautiful photographs.

After breakfast, we decided to take a leisurely walk through Santo Amaro, starting with a visit to Lar dos Brittos. This isn't just a place; it's a community, a family, living in the heart of the dunes. It's a reminder that even in the most isolated places, life finds a way to thrive. The people here are incredibly resilient, living off the land and welcoming visitors with open arms. As we walked, Aisha was fascinated by the free-roaming goats and cattle, a common sight in this area.


Experience the heart of Maranhão's rural traditions at Lar dos Brittos in Barreirinhas, a cultural gem near Lençóis Maranhenses.

The beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses isn't just in its landscape, but in the warmth and resilience of its people.

Next, we wandered towards Beco do Beijo, a quaint spot that offered a glimpse into the town's more intimate corners. It’s a narrow alleyway, rumored to be a lovers' lane, adding a touch of romance to our family adventure. Aisha, of course, was more interested in the colorful walls and the small details that caught her eye. Hans and I took a moment to appreciate the quiet charm, a stark contrast to the vastness of the dunes we had explored in previous days. I couldn't help but think of my birthplace, Koumpentoum, Senegal, and the similar sense of community and connection to the land that I feel in places like this.


Discover the romantic charm of Beco do Beijo, a hidden gem in Santo Amaro do Maranhão, near the stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.

For lunch, we returned to Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. We enjoyed some traditional Maranhense cuisine. The simplicity of the meal, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, was a perfect reflection of the region itself. As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments from the trip. Aisha recounted her excitement at seeing the Lagoa Azul, while Hans reminisced about the stunning sunsets over the dunes. For me, it was the sense of peace and connection I felt while photographing the landscape, capturing the essence of this magical place.

In the afternoon, we explored Praça Central, the heart of Santo Amaro. It’s a bustling hub where locals gather, children play, and vendors sell their wares. Aisha was immediately drawn to a small stall selling handmade dolls. We picked one out for her, a memento of our time here. I enjoyed browsing the local crafts, admiring the intricate work and the stories behind each piece. It was a chance to support the local economy and take home a piece of Lençóis Maranhenses with us.


Savor the exquisite flavors of artisanal ice cream at Praça Central, a must-visit destination in Santo Amaro do Maranhão for every dessert lover.

As the day drew to a close, we had dinner once more at our beloved Restaurante no Povoado de Ponta Verde. The owner, a kind woman named Maria, greeted us like old friends. We savored our final meal, sharing stories and laughter, feeling a sense of contentment and gratitude. The restaurant was alive with the chatter of locals and tourists alike, all drawn to the simple, authentic flavors of Maranhense cuisine.

Reflecting on our nine-day adventure, I am struck by the profound impact this journey has had on our family. We came to Lençóis Maranhenses seeking natural beauty and adventure, and we found so much more. We discovered a sense of connection to the land and its people, a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life, and a renewed sense of family.

As a translator, I am always fascinated by the nuances of language and culture. Here, in Lençóis Maranhenses, I found a culture that speaks through its landscape, its traditions, and its people. It’s a language of resilience, beauty, and connection, one that transcends words and touches the soul.

Hans, with his software engineering background, was impressed by the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the locals, finding sustainable ways to live in harmony with their environment. Aisha, with her boundless curiosity, soaked in every experience, asking questions, making friends, and expanding her understanding of the world.

Lençóis Maranhenses has a unique way of captivating the soul. It's a place where the landscape tells a story of resilience and beauty, where the people welcome you with open arms, and where the simple rhythms of life remind you of what truly matters.

Our journey may be ending, but the memories and lessons we've learned will stay with us forever. As we prepare to return to Heidelberg, I know that a part of my heart will always remain in Lençóis Maranhenses.

I am already dreaming of our next adventure, perhaps exploring the coastal towns of Brazil or venturing into the Amazon rainforest. Until then, I will continue to share my experiences and inspire others to embrace the beauty and diversity of our world.

Thank you, Lençóis Maranhenses, for the memories, the lessons, and the magic.

P.S. As we bid farewell to Lençóis Maranhenses, I am already looking forward to sharing more of our travel adventures. Stay tuned for future posts on Evendo, where I'll continue to share my experiences and insights from around the world.