North-East Brazil
Brazilian mother figures
During my trip through South America, my first destination was Rio de Janeiro; from there, we travelled on to Paraty, São Paulo and the Iguazu Falls. A huge distance, but just a pinprick if you were to mark it out on a map of Brazil.
As well as the stunning and diverse natural landscape, it’s the people who have stayed with me the most. What wonderful people. Contrary to what stories often suggest, there’s no single description of a ‘typical Brazilian’. Brazil is, in fact, one big melting pot of cultures, and you can see that reflected in the people’s appearance. However, friendliness and openness are two traits shared by most Brazilians. Wherever you go, they pull out all the stops to make you feel at home. The moment I crossed the border into Argentina, I immediately felt homesick for all the Brazilian ‘mother figures’ who had looked after us so well.
Brazil has undoubtedly won a special place in my heart. And yet I’ve only got to know a small part of this country. I’ll definitely be coming back to see the Pantanal and the Amazon, but also to explore the north-east of Brazil – an undiscovered and unspoilt part of the country.
North-East Brazil: Different and undiscovered
Walking through São Paulo, a vast metropolis with over 20 million inhabitants and an area the same size as the province of Utrecht, it is hard to imagine that within the same country there is an area of equal size that is home to just 100 families. An area where you can still admire the characteristic landscape of lagoons, marshes, dunes, sandy beaches and coral reefs. Here, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the modern world, you can still experience the laid-back atmosphere of this unspoilt region. Idyllic beaches, unpaved roads, the sound of forró music echoing through the streets, and the best restaurants along the coast where you can enjoy the freshest and most authentic seafood dishes.
Barefoot Luxury in an idyllic setting
The laid-back atmosphere in north-eastern Brazil means you can really enjoy all the beautiful places you’ll find here. High on my wish list is the surreal landscape of the Lençois Maranhenses, where perfectly formed white sand dunes alternate with azure blue lakes, stretching as far as the eye can see. I’ve been told it’s an enchanting and magical landscape unlike anything else in the world.
Not far from here lies the hippie paradise of Jericoacoara, where you can witness one of the most spectacular sunsets ever. Jericoacoara, which was discovered in the 1970s by hippies, artists and free spirits, is becoming increasingly well-known, yet has managed to retain its charm as a small fishing village over the years. During the same trip, you can visit the Paranaíba Delta, which is renowned for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. But what I’m really looking forward to is sipping a cocktail made from exotic fruits whilst lying in a hammock, gazing out over one of the many unspoilt, pristine white sandy beaches and a deep blue sea.
Fancy a trip of Brazil?
Would you like to organise your own trip of north-eastern Brazil and are you curious about the options? Then do take a look at the itinerary we’ve put together for inspiration. You can book these tours directly, but we’d also be happy to put together a personalised itinerary based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have an immediate question? Then feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an e-mail to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We are happy to help.