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 along a beautiful coastline, north of Salvador, in Brazil's sunny Coconut Coast, Imbassai is best known for its breathtaking, dreamlike beaches. The surrounding landscape features welcoming natural pools, a magnificent river flanked by sand dunes, and golden-sand beaches bordered by the South Atlantic fringed by swaying coconut palms. Visitors can look forward to leisurely strolls along the village centre to the restaurants, inns, bars, and shops, sampling delicious local cuisine and relaxing with a refreshing drink. The glorious stretches of unspoilt beaches are ideal for a lazy afternoon or to enjoy popular activities including kayaking, snorkelling, and surfing.
