The Story of Rancho do Buna

Our Story

The Story of Buna

From a fishing village to the Ranch

1980

Buna discovers Atins

In 1980, Buna arrived in Atins. Back then, the village was home to around 300 fishermen — there was no electricity, no cars, no tourism. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park did not even exist yet. Buna bought a plot of land in Atins with the idea of building a personal retreat, far from the city.

Coconut grove in Atins
Handcrafted details at Rancho do Buna
The 1990s

The dream takes shape

In the 1990s, the retreat grew into a bigger dream: a guesthouse to welcome friends. Buna began collecting materials — recycled wood, reforested timber, everything repurposed. With no architect, no blueprint, he designed and built every chalet, every piece of furniture, every detail himself. The wooden sculptures scattered around the garden are also his handiwork, carved from local trees.

2000 — Today

From 5 chalets to a legacy

In 2000, when the road connecting São Luís to Barreirinhas was inaugurated, the Ranch opened its doors under the name 'Rancho dos Lençóis' with just 5 chalets. Over time, it grew organically — always keeping the same rustic and simple essence, yet comfortable. Today, Rancho do Buna is more than a guesthouse. It is the legacy of a man who found his paradise and built it with his own hands.

Rancho do Buna today

What Defines Us

Handmade

Built without an architect, with recycled wood and handcrafted furniture made by Buna

Living Nature

Peacocks, ducks, donkeys, and chickens roam freely through the coconut grove

Legacy of Atins

Over 40 years of history in this village — Buna helped shape Atins into what it is today

Life at the Ranch

Donkeys at Rancho do Buna Regional breakfast Rancho do Buna pool Coconut grove and suites Donkeys at the ranch gate Entrance to Rancho do Buna

Come and visit the Ranch

Book your stay and discover what Buna built with his own hands