Situated just north of the city of Recife on Brazil's northeast coast, the historic city of Olinda is one of Brazil's best-preserved, most picturesque colonial towns. Known by many to be the country's cultural hub, it is most famously known for its striking heritage buildings, scenic cityscapes and rich culture. Alongside this, Olinda has developed a reputation as a vibrant artist's colony with many galleries and artisans' workshops. Visitors can look forward to exploring the UNESCO-listed historic downtown area, featuring streets fringed by a host of fascinating museums, old Baroque-style churches and colourful 18th-century colonial architecture everywhere you look. Olinda also plays host to the best Carnival in Brazil, where hundreds of parades swarm the streets in festive mode.
Located on the Atlantic Coast of eastern Brazil, Maragogi is a resort town best known for its shallow lagoons, coral reefs and endless beaches. This small beach town boasts numerous guest houses, shop-lined streets and waterfront restaurants. Visitors can look forward to a number of wonderful activities such as: exploring the colourful reefs, natural pools, and sandbars in the spectacularly scenic Gales Marine Reserve; jump on a day trip to Porto de Galinhas, and enjoy sampling freshly caught seafood while sipping on a cocktail and soaking up idyllic ocean views. Other popular activities include: swimming, boating, sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, diving and spending lazy days on unspoilt beaches.
Situated along Brazil’s beautiful coastline, Maceio is the capital of the state of Alagoas. Serving as an excellent stopover on the road between Recife and Salvador, Maceio is also known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent snorkelling, and pristine palm-fringed beaches lapped by crystal-clear calm waters. The coast here is protected by a barrier reef which has created a series of idyllic natural pools in the sea. Visitors can look forward to exploring the historical city centre, characterised by pastel-coloured colonial houses and other impressive heritage buildings; sampling delicious local cuisine, and relaxing on picturesque beaches. Other popular activities include boating, diving, and swimming. Don’t miss the excitement of the annual 'Carnaval' and Maceio Music Festival.
The first town of Alagoas is today one of the most beautiful towns in the state. Founded in the 16th century, on the banks of the São Francisco River, Penedo preserves a preserved historic center taken by museums and churches from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Mangue Seco, a coastal village in Jandaíra, Bahia, rests where the Rio Real meets the Atlantic, radiating a serene, untouched charm. Its atmosphere is timeless, with sandy streets, rustic houses, and swaying coconut palms framing the coastline. Visitors can explore expansive dunes stretching towards the river, glide along the water in traditional fishing boats, or relax on quiet beaches where the tide reveals shimmering sandbanks. The gentle rustle of palm fronds and the scent of briny water mingle under a constant, golden sun. Mangue Seco offers a tranquil retreat into Brazil’s natural beauty and coastal heritage, far from bustling tourist circuits.
Located 80 kilometres from the city of Salvador de Bahia in northeastern Brazil, Praia do Forte is a quaint village featuring a long stretch of magnificent beach of the same name, featuring palm-lined white-sand beaches. Praia do Forte is an upmarket tourist destination popular with visitors from all corners of the globe. Visitors can enjoy browsing Alameda do Sol, a pedestrian walkway fringed with lively restaurants and shops, discovering the picturesque little seaside church of Sao Francisco, featuring Colonial Portuguese architecture and visiting Projeto Tamar, a sea turtle reserve. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Sapiranga Forest Reserve as well as the ruins of Garcia D'Avila Castle located just outside the village. Popular activities include: sightseeing, swimming, shopping, zipline, biking, and canoeing.
One of the oldest cities in Brazil, Salvador is known for its rich culture, hospitable locals and laid-back atmosphere. Set against a backdrop of impressive architecture, this attractive coastal destination is a place where entertainment, music and fine cuisine abound, earning it the nickname the 'capital of happiness'. Highlights of the area include its lovely beaches and ocean views, 17th century fort, São Joaquim craft market and array of fascinating museums. The best time to visit Salvador is during the annual Carnaval, when the streets come alive with colours, costumes, dancing and festivities.
