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.
Set on the remote northeastern tip of Brazil’s Tinhare Island, the village of Morro de Sao Paulo features a rich heritage, unique geography, excellent nightlife and palm-fringed white-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters. This tropical paradise offers visitors an array of comfortable places to stay and the opportunity to enjoy a wide selection of adventure activities including watersports such as surfing, scuba diving, wakeboarding, and banana boating. Visitors can sample local cuisine at a variety waterfront restaurants lining the picturesque Second Beach; discover the intricately carved wooden altar at the whitewashed Church of Our Lady of Light, and explore the ancient ruins of the 17th-century Tapirandu Fortress. This lovely village provides a relaxing atmosphere as there are no cars allowed on the island, adding to the holiday charm of this peaceful retreat.
Set within the enthralling Tinharé archipelago in Brazil’s Cairu county, bound by the ocean and the Inferno River estuary, Boipeba Island is an extraordinary destination famous for its unique and important ecosystems, and is recognised by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site. Pristine, remote, palm-fringed beaches lapped by turquoise seas, along with a mesmerising underwater life, make the island a top destination for sun worshippers and divers alike. Biopeba is also home to thick jungles, other-worldly mangroves, and stunning natural pools, where brightly coloured birds and butterflies can be seen, and, occasionally, foxes and reptiles (keep an eye out for turtles on the beach). Gourmands will delight in the wonderful local seafood specialities. The island is still relatively quiet and laid-back, making it perfect for a tranquil escape.
A popular vacation spot for Brazilian families, Barra Grande is a quaint town on the tip of the Marau Peninsula of Camamu Bay. Far from the relentless bustle of urban life, this rural coastal village provides a perfect base from which to soak in the natural surroundings, offering the best place to stay while exploring the area’s numerous gorgeous tropical beaches. While the town centre has become a vibrant hub for holidaymakers, numerous tranquil spots spread out from here - both serene, palm-fringed beaches and charming towns like Trancoso and Caraiva. At Taipu de Fora, snorkel among sapphire-blue pools and bright coral reefs; at Lagoa Azul, a large freshwater lake, take a dip to soften skin or climb the Morro de Farol for unparalleled vistas of the area. Don’t miss the stunning Tremembe waterfalls and a trip to the wild Boipeba Island.
Situated in the state of Bahia in Brazil, Itacare is the name given to the municipality as well as a quaint town along the southeastern coast. It is known for its tropical forest, cascading waterfalls and picturesque palm-fringed white-sand beaches meeting turquoise waters. Set at the mouth of the Rio de Contas, the colourful eponymous town is famed as a surfing heaven with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and offers visitors a variety of activities to look forward to including: surfing, capoeira, diving, kayaking, and hiking. Visitors can relax on countless pristine beaches, enjoy a wide selection of adventure sports and sample local and international cuisine at a variety of eateries.
