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 in the heart of the landlocked Chapada Diamantina (Diamond Plateau) region of the Bahia state in northeastern Brazil, the beautiful Chapada Diamantina National Park is known for its unique natural beauty and remote tranquillity. ‘Chapada’ is a Brazilian word meaning ‘region of steep cliffs at the edge of a plateau’ and ‘Diamantina’ refers to the diamonds found there in the mid-19th century. This 1,520 square-kilometre national park features river-formed cave systems, cascading waterfalls, soaring mountains, meandering rivers, lush valleys and natural swimming holes. Visitors can look forward to an endless network of scenic cactus-dotted hiking trails, and spotting an impressive variety of flora and fauna including jaguar, monkey, the South American coati, macaws, and deer.
Set at an altitude of 900m amid a privileged landscape, Mucugê is a city surrounded by spectacularly scenic mountains, rivers, waterfalls and caves in the Brazilian state of Bahia. This well-preserved historic city features beautiful colonial mansions, impressive churches, museums, a picturesque tree-lined square, and busy bars and restaurants. The city is a convenient stopover en route to the world-renowned Chapada da Diamantina National Park, an awe-inspiring natural wonderland spanning 1520 sq km and teeming with innumerable plants and animals, waterfalls and vast, rugged plains. Several hiking trails trace the landscape ranging from afternoon-length excursions to multiday treks.
Bordering the expansive Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia, eastern Brazil, the old diamond-mining town of Lencois is surrounded by majestic mountains, densely wooded forests, and cascading waterfalls. Lencois serves as an excellent base from which to explore the magnificent northeastern interior. The picturesque town features charming cobbled streets lined with vibrant cafes and restaurants, and colourful 19th-century colonial buildings. Visitors can explore the Casa de Cultura Afranio Peixoto, a museum in memory of a famous local writer, visit the whitewashed Senhor dos Passos Church and explore the Praca Otaviano Alves and Praca Horacio de Matos squares in the town centre.
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.
