Solo Adventure to Chapada Diamantina: A Nature Lover's Dream

A Day of Nature's Masterpieces

Today was nothing short of magical, a true testament to the raw beauty and hidden wonders of Chapada Diamantina National Park. From the thrilling descent into the Buracão Waterfall canyon to the mesmerizing hues of the Salão das Areias Coloridas, every moment felt like stepping into a living painting. I was reminded once again why I chose to embark on this solo adventure – to immerse myself in nature's grandeur and discover the unique landscapes that Brazil has to offer.

The day began, as most days here do, with a simple breakfast at my campsite within Chapada Diamantina National Park. There’s something incredibly grounding about starting the day surrounded by nature, the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of leaves. After packing my essentials – water, sunscreen (which I almost forgot to pack before this trip!), and my trusty camera – I set off for the first destination: the magnificent Buracão Waterfall.

The journey to Buracão involved a bit of a drive and a short hike, but the anticipation of what awaited kept my spirits high. The trail wound through the typical, stunning Chapada landscape, with views that stretched for miles. The closer I got, the more the air seemed to fill with a palpable sense of excitement and adventure. It's the rainy season here, which means the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. I was definitely prepared with the rain jacket I thankfully remembered to pack, after almost leaving it behind!

Reaching the canyon's edge, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale and beauty of the place. The Buracão Waterfall isn't just a waterfall; it's an experience. To get to the base, you have to swim through a narrow canyon, the towering rock walls on either side creating an almost surreal atmosphere. The water was refreshingly cool, a welcome contrast to the Bahia heat. Floating through the canyon, gazing up at the sliver of sky above, I felt a profound sense of peace and connection to nature.

As I rounded the final bend, the Buracão Waterfall revealed itself in all its glory. The force of the water cascading down was incredible, creating a misty spray that kissed my face. Swimming in the pool at the base of the falls, surrounded by the canyon walls, was an unforgettable experience. It felt like being in a secret world, a hidden sanctuary far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I spent a good hour simply soaking it all in, taking photos and letting the power of the falls wash over me.


Explore the stunning Waterfall Buracão in Ibicoara, Bahia – a breathtaking natural attraction perfect for hiking and adventure.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After reluctantly leaving the Buracão Waterfall, I made my way to the Salão das Areias Coloridas, or the Hall of Colored Sands. This was a completely different experience, a journey into an almost otherworldly landscape of vibrant hues and unique geological formations.

Located near the natural pools of the Parque Municipal do Serrano in Lençóis, the Salão das Areias Coloridas is a mesmerizing labyrinth of open caves with rocks and sandstones in a variety of colors. The different shades of sand – pink, white, red, green, yellow, and lilac – create a stunning visual tapestry that is both beautiful and surreal. Walking through the caves, I felt like I was exploring an alien planet, each turn revealing a new and fascinating display of colors and textures.

It was fascinating to learn that, in the past, the colored sands were used by local artisans to create souvenirs, filling small bottles with intricate patterns. Thankfully, that practice is no longer allowed, preserving the natural beauty of the Salão for future generations. I spent a considerable amount of time wandering through the caves, taking photos and simply marveling at the natural artistry on display. The play of light and shadow, the subtle variations in color, and the unique formations of the rocks and sand created a truly magical atmosphere.


Experience the breathtaking colors of Salão das Areias Coloridas, a natural gem in Lençóis, Bahia, perfect for photography and nature lovers.

For lunch, I stopped by Restaurante Sabor da Serra. The reviews I'd read mentioned their creative use of local ingredients, and I was eager to try some authentic Bahian cuisine. I opted for a dish featuring *licuri*, a type of local coconut, and *feijão andu*, a regional bean. It was a delightful explosion of flavors, a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, I decided to treat myself to a drink at Budha Bar in Vale do Capão. This bar and restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique decor, a blend of Brazilian and international influences. I ordered a *caipirinha*, Brazil's national cocktail, and settled in to watch the sunset. The combination of the stunning view, the delicious drink, and the lively atmosphere made for a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the tranquil ambiance and local flavors at Budha Bar in Chapada Diamantina, where every meal is a celebration of nature and taste.

The Budha Bar seems to be quite a hit with tourists and locals alike. I overheard some people talking about the food, particularly the *carne do sol* with grill fries and the crab cone with yellow *farofa*. Apparently, their *feijoada* is also quite popular and enough for two people! I might just have to come back tomorrow and try some of these dishes.

As I sit here now, back at my campsite, reflecting on the day's adventures, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Chapada Diamantina has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its natural beauty and unique charm. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself, a place where every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Cachoeirinha and Poço Halley, two more of Chapada Diamantina's hidden gems. I've heard that Cachoeirinha is a beautiful waterfall with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming. And Poço Halley, I'm told, is a series of lovely pools. I'm also hoping to visit Artesanato Natureza Criativa, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs for Hans and myself. I think he would love a little something from my adventure, as he always supports my solo travels, even though I know he misses me.

Before drifting off to sleep, I took a moment to appreciate the incredible beauty of the night sky here. Far removed from the light pollution of the city, the stars shone with an intensity I had almost forgotten existed. It was a perfect reminder of the simple joys of life, the beauty of nature, and the importance of taking time to disconnect and reconnect with the world around us. Tonight, I'm sleeping soundly, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures.

Chapada Diamantina continues to surprise and delight me at every turn, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Brazil!