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Bahia is one of the most diverse states in Brazil in terms of tourism, with its 13 tourist regions offering a wide variety of experiences for visitors.

Main Tourist Regions in Bahia

1. Salvador – The state capital, famous for its colonial architecture, Afro-Brazilian culture, carnival and beaches.
2. Baía de Todos os Santos – The largest navigable bay in Brazil, with islands, historical heritage sites and the capital, Salvador.
3. Caminhos do Jiquiriçá – Known for its waterfalls, trails and rural tourism.
4. Caminhos do Sudoeste – Includes towns of historical importance and agricultural economy, with cultural attractions.
5. Caminhos do Sertão – A region of arid landscapes and sertanejo culture, represented in traditional events and festivals.
6. Costa dos Coqueiros – Destination famous for its beaches and luxury resorts, including Praia do Forte and Linha Verde.
7. Costa do Cacau – Rich in the history of the cocoa cycle, with famous beaches such as Ilhéus and Itacaré.
8. Costa do Dendê – The region is famous for its archipelago, which includes 26 islands, the largest and best known being Tinharé Island.
9. Costa do Descobrimento – A world heritage site, it includes Porto Seguro, the cradle of Brazilian colonisation.
10. Caminhos do Oeste – Region of great agricultural development, with cerrado landscapes and rivers.
11. Costa das Baleias – Famous for humpback whale watching and quiet beaches in the far south of Bahia.
12. Chapada Diamantina – Mountainous region with waterfalls, caves and trails, ideal for ecotourism.
13. São Francisco Lakes and Canyons – Focussed on the São Francisco River, with boat trips and impressive canyons.

These regions highlight the geographical and cultural diversity of the state, offering attractions for all types of travelers.

Bahia is divided into 13 tourist zones, and among the state’s 417 municipalities, 154 have attractions for travellers, according to the agency.

Note that, for those who think Bahia is just sun, beach, olive oil and carnival, we present business tourism, adventure sports, culture…. In Lençóis, for example, besides the landscape, we have the Winter Festival.

We have beautiful caves in Barreiras. We have waterfalls and over two thousand river springs in Iguaí, in the south-west of the state. You can even take a catamaran ride in Feira de Santana.

Its beaches on the vast coastline, the colonial historical sites, the natural beauty and the rich culture are a constant attraction for visitors from all over the world.

The state capital, Salvador, stands out for its local carnival, which attracts around 2.7 million revellers over six days of partying. Among the tourist attractions, the Baia de Todos os Santos, the Farol da Barra, located on Barra beach, the Elevador Lacerda and Pelourinho.

On the coast of Bahia is the district of Costa do Sauípe, Brazil’s largest tourist complex, designed from the outset for tourism and filled almost entirely with hotels and resorts.

The Archipelago dos Abrolhos is a tourist area in Bahia and stands out for having an excellent area for scuba diving and free diving in addition to attractions such as the season of the humpback whales, which begins in July.

There are also many other coastal locations sought by tourists: Praia do Forte, Guarajuba, Itacimirim, Prado, Itacaré, Santa Cruz Cabrália, Camamu, Ituberá, Alcobaça, Morro de São Paulo, ilha de Itaparica, among others.

In the metropolitan region of Salvador, the Bay of Aratu stands out, an immense inlet that houses the Port of Aratu, a shipyard, as well as two of the ten most luxurious marinas in Latin America (Aratu Yacht Club and Marina Aratu) and the Aratu Naval Base.

Also notable is the Baia de Camamu, Brazil’s third largest bay. The coast of Bahia still has other very touristic places such as Arraial d’Ajuda, in Porto Seguro, site of the discovery of Brazil, Morro de São Paulo, Praia do Forte and Maraú.

Bahia has been divided into tourist zones, each of which has been given the characteristic name of its main physical and thematic identity.

Bahia’s Main Tourist Regions

Regiões Turísticas da Bahia

1. Salvador de Bahia

Salvador is a vibrant city, full of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for those looking to explore the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial traditions, and enjoy paradisiacal beaches. With its famous Carnival, rich cuisine, and iconic attractions such as the Pelourinho, Salvador offers a unique experience that blends past and present in an unforgettable setting.

Salvador, originally founded as São Salvador da Bahia de Todos os Santos, is a Brazilian city and the capital of the state of Bahia. It was also Brazil’s first capital.

The residents of Salvador are called soteropolitanos, a demonym derived from the translation of the city’s name into Greek: Soteropolis, meaning “city of the Savior”. The word is composed of Σωτήρ (“savior”) and πόλις (“city”).

With a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, Salvador is the ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation.

2. Baia de Todos os Santos

Baía de Todos os Santos, one of the largest navigable bays in Brazil, is surrounded by various cities and islands that offer a wide range of tourist attractions and cultural experiences. Here are some of the main cities and islands around the bay:

View the map of Baía de Todos os Santos

3. Paths of the Jiquiriçá – Caminhos do Jiquiriçá

Caminhos do Jiquiriçá is a region rich in natural and cultural beauty, offering a variety of options for tourists. Among its main cities are Amargosa, Cruz das Almas, and Milagres.

The region is known for its waterfalls, rivers, hills, and lush flora and fauna, attracting both nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts. The stunning landscapes and natural environment are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, rappelling, and water sports.

In addition, Caminhos do Jiquiriçá provides an intimate connection with local culture, featuring traditional festivals and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the authenticity of the cities and the hospitality of the inhabitants, enjoying a complete experience that combines nature and culture.

4. Paths of the Southwest – Caminhos do Sudoeste

The Southwest region of Bahia, including cities like Iguaí and Vitória da Conquista, is situated in a semi-arid area and has shown significant potential for business and cultural tourism.

1. Iguaí

• Natural Landscapes: Iguaí is known for its stunning landscapes, including trails, waterfalls, and numerous river springs. These natural resources create rare and beautiful mosaics, ideal for ecotourism and outdoor activities.
• Coffee Plantations: The city is famous for its coffee plantations, which add a rural charm and offer opportunities for agricultural tourism.
• Cachoeira do Buracão: One of the main natural attractions, featuring a beautiful waterfall and swimming areas.

2. Vitória da Conquista

• Centro Cultural Glauber Rocha: An important cultural space offering art exhibitions, cinema, and cultural events.
• Praça Tancredo Neves: A central meeting point and event space with historic architecture and leisure areas.
• Parque de Exposições: Known for hosting the Vitória da Conquista Agropecuária Exhibition, a significant event for the agricultural and livestock sector.

3. Other Attractions in the Region

• Business Tourism: The region has become a center for business and events, offering modern infrastructure and options for conferences and fairs.
• Cultural Tourism: The rich cultural heritage of the region is evident in traditional festivals, museums, and cultural events that attract visitors interested in the local culture.

Caminhos do Sudoeste combines natural beauty with a growing infrastructure for business and cultural tourism, making it a diverse destination for those seeking to explore both the nature and culture of Bahia.

5. Paths of the Sertão – Caminhos do Sertão

Canudos, Cipó, Ribeira do Pombal, Uauá…

Marked by its peculiar climate and vegetation, the sertão has destinations for historical, cultural and religious tourism.

Because it was the scene of important historical events, some towns in this region, such as Canudos, have a great cultural heritage. The Canudos State Park, for example, was the scene of several battles during the War of the Same Name.

6.  Coconut Coast – Costa dos Coqueiros

Conde, Entre Rios, Esplanada…

North of Salvador is the Costa dos Coqueiros, 193 kilometers of beaches surrounded by rivers and dunes, which are home to unique environmental riches along the Estrada do Coco and the Linha Verde – the country’s first ecological highway.

Formed by municipalities located to the north of the Bahian capital (Camaçari, Conde, Entre Rios, Esplanada, Jandaíra, Lauro de Freitas and Mata de São João), the Coconut Coast is one of the most popular tourist areas in the state, home to destinations such as Praia do Forte, Costa do Sauípe (the largest group of resorts in South America), Imbassaí and Mangue Seco.

Costa dos Coqueiros stretches north of Salvador, encompassing a stunning coastal strip with 193 kilometers of beaches surrounded by rivers and dunes. The region is renowned for its unique environmental treasures and is traversed by the Estrada do Coco and the Linha Verde, Brazil’s first ecological highway.

Municipalities of Costa dos Coqueiros

• Camaçari
• Conde
• Entre Rios
• Esplanada
• Jandaíra
• Lauro de Freitas
• Mata de São João

Main Destinations

• Praia do Forte: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and the Projeto Tamar, dedicated to the preservation of sea turtles. The beach is ideal for relaxation and water activities.
• Costa do Sauípe: The largest resort complex in South America, offering a wide range of services and entertainment in a luxurious setting.
• Imbassaí: Known for its tranquil beaches and the meeting of the river with the sea, providing a relaxing experience and scenic views.
• Mangue Seco: A picturesque destination with dunes, mangroves, and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a closer connection with nature and local culture.

Costa dos Coqueiros is one of the most sought-after tourist zones in the state, offering a perfect combination of natural beauty, quality infrastructure, and an environment conducive to relaxation and leisure.

View the Costa dos Coqueiros map

7. Cocoa Coast – Cocoa Coast

Canavieiras, Ilhéus, Itabuna, Itacaré, Pau Brasil, Santa Luzia…

Along the 180 km of road between Itacaré and Canavieiras, passing through Ilhéus and Una, you can see magnificent scenery where the forests overlook white sandy beaches, lagoons, mangroves and nature reserves.

There are six conservation units, including the Reserva Biológica de Una, a sanctuary for the endangered golden-faced lion tamarin.

Comprising the municipalities of Canavieiras, Ilhéus, Itacaré, Santa Luzia, Una and Uruçuca, this region became world famous through the stories of love and adventure told by Jorge Amado.

View the Costa do Cacau map

8. Costa do Dendê

Costa do Dendê is a stunning coastal region of Bahia, extending 115 kilometers along the shoreline and offering a rich combination of warm water beaches, rivers, forests, waterfalls, and primitive trails. The region is famous for its archipelago, which includes 26 islands, with Ilha de Tinharé being the largest and most well-known.

Main Municipalities and Destinations

• Cairu: Home to Ilha de Tinharé, which houses the famous Morro de São Paulo, one of Bahia’s most sought-after destinations, known for its paradise-like beaches and vibrant nightlife.
• Camamu: Highlights include Baía de Camamu, an area rich in biodiversity, ideal for boat trips and nature observation.
• Ituberá: Known for its natural beauty and ecotourism options, such as trails and waterfalls.
• Maraú: Offers tranquil beaches and impressive natural landscapes, such as the Parque Nacional de Tinharé.
• Valença: An important commercial and cultural center in the region, serving as a gateway to other tourist areas.

Natural Attractions

• Arquipélago de Tinharé: Includes several islands, with Ilha de Tinharé being the most famous, where Morro de São Paulo is located. The archipelago offers spectacular scenery and outdoor activities.
• Baía de Camamu: One of the largest bays in Brazil, rich in marine life and with a unique landscape, ideal for boat trips and nature observation.
• Ilha de Boipeba: Known for its tranquil beaches and rich biodiversity.

Culture and Gastronomy

• Costa do Dendê is the primary location for the production of dendê oil, an essential ingredient in Bahian cuisine. The region offers rich local culture and a variety of traditional dishes that use dendê oil, reflecting the culinary traditions of Bahia.

Arquipélago Fluvial-Marítimo do Rio Una This archipelago features a combination of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems, providing a diverse environment for observing flora and fauna.

Costa do Dendê is a highly attractive tourist destination known for its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural and gastronomic heritage, offering a unique experience for visitors.

View the map of the Costa do Dendê

9. Costa do Descobrimento- Discovery Coast

Costa do Descobrimento is a coastal region rich in history and natural beauty, extending 150 kilometers along the shoreline. Situated at the foot of Monte Pascoal, this area is known for its beaches, cliffs, coral reefs, mangroves, forests, and rivers. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ecological and historical significance.

Main Municipalities and Destinations

• Eunápolis: Serves as a major gateway to the region and is known for its cultural and historical attractions.
• Itabela: Offers beautiful natural landscapes and is a gateway to exploring the surrounding areas.
• Porto Seguro: One of Bahia’s most famous destinations, considered the birthplace of Brazilian history and civilization. Porto Seguro is known for its beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
• Belmonte: Noted for its tranquil beaches and rich local culture.
• Santa Cruz Cabrália: Important to Brazilian history, with attractions related to the arrival of the Portuguese in the country.

Natural and Historical Attractions

• Monte Pascoal: A significant historical and natural landmark, believed to be the site where the first Portuguese explorers landed in Brazil in 1500.
• Beaches and Cliffs: The region features a succession of stunning beaches and imposing cliffs that attract tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
• Coral Reefs and Mangroves: Rich in biodiversity, ideal for diving and marine life observation.
• Natural Parks and Rivers: Protected areas offering opportunities for ecotourism and direct contact with nature.

Cultural and Historical Significance The Costa do Descobrimento is considered the cradle of Brazilian history and civilization, offering an unmatched array of historical and natural attractions. The region is marked by significant historical events, including the arrival of the first European explorers, and maintains a cultural legacy evident in its local festivals and traditions.

Costa do Descobrimento provides a rich and rewarding experience, combining natural beauty with deep historical heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore Bahia’s rich history and ecological diversity.

View the Costa do Descobrimento map

10. Paths of the West – Caminhos do Oeste

Located on the left bank of the São Francisco River, the Caminhos do Oeste region comprises the municipalities of Barreiras, Bom Jesus da Lapa, Correntina, Santana, Santa Rita de Cássia, Santa Maria da Vitória, São Félix do Coribe, and São Desidério.

Natural and Economic Features

• Terrain and Vegetation: The region’s terrain is flat, with vegetation typical of the cerrado, providing a distinctive landscape that characterizes the area.
• Agribusiness: The Western Bahia region is a major agribusiness hub, being the leading grain producer in the North and Northeast of Brazil. The success of agribusiness has led to significant economic growth in the area.

Natural Attractions and Activities

• Canyons, Caves, and Valleys: Tributaries of the São Francisco River create canyons, caves, and valleys that offer spectacular scenery and opportunities for ecotourism and water sports.
• Exotic Landscapes: The region maintains much of its natural beauty almost intact, providing a unique environment for visitors seeking to enjoy nature and explore the geological formations of the area.

Economic Growth and Tourism The Caminhos do Oeste region has been notable for its impressive economic growth, driven by advancements in the agribusiness sector, particularly in grain production. Its exotic landscapes and the combination of natural beauty with economic development make it an attractive destination for both adventure tourism and those interested in learning more about Bahia’s agribusiness sector.

View the map of the western roads

11. Costa das Baleias – Whale Coast

The Costa das Baleias is a captivating coastal region located in the southernmost part of Bahia, comprising the municipalities of Alcobaça, Caravelas, Mucuri, Nova Viçosa, and Prado.

Abrolhos Archipelago: Formed by five islands, this archipelago is renowned for its biodiversity, shallow and crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and underwater caves. It is a key location for observing humpback whales during the annual migration phenomenon, when these magnificent creatures visit the region’s shallow waters.

Ecotourism and Natural Beauty: The Costa das Baleias is a prime destination for ecotourism, offering an opportunity to experience the beauty and biodiversity of Bahia’s coastline up close. With its lush landscapes and the chance to witness one of the planet’s greatest natural spectacles, the region attracts visitors seeking adventure and unique experiences.

View the map of the Costa das Baleias

12. Chapada Diamantina

The Chapada Diamantina is one of Bahia’s most extensive and impressive tourist regions, located in the central part of the state. Comprising municipalities such as Andaraí, Ibicoara, Mucugê, and Palmeiras, among others, the region is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Natural and Historical Features

• Chapada Diamantina National Park: Home to a still partially unexplored biodiversity with a rich and varied ecosystem. The park is known for its waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and trails originally carved by miners, which reveal the region’s springs of the Paraguaçu Basin.
• Trails and Adventures: The trails offer access to various tourist spots, including impressive waterfalls and unique geological formations.

Tourist Circuits The Chapada Diamantina is divided into four main circuits:

• Chapada Norte: Covers areas of great natural beauty and points of historical and cultural interest.
• Circuito do Ouro: Related to the history of gold mining and exploration in the region, with historical and natural attractions.
• Circuito do Diamante: Famous for its diamond mining past and breathtaking landscapes.
• Chapada Velha: Includes areas of significant historical and cultural importance, with trails and tourist points of relevance.

Historical Significance The municipalities of Chapada Diamantina have a history deeply tied to mining activities during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The diamond and gold cycles left a significant cultural and historical legacy in the region, which can be explored through its various tourist circuits.

Main Attractions

• Waterfalls and Pools: Must-see attractions for nature and ecotourism enthusiasts.
• Geological Formations: Including canyons, caves, and rock formations that offer unique scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Chapada Diamantina offers a rich and varied experience, combining natural beauty with a profound historical heritage. It is an ideal destination for those seeking adventures in nature and those interested in exploring the history and culture of Bahia.

View the Chapada Diamantina map

13. Valleys, canyons and lakes of the São Francisco

Casa Nova, Curaçá, Juazeiro, Remanso, Sobradinho…

In the region, fine wines add a special flavor to the countryside cuisine.

This is already considered the second largest wine production center in Brazil.

It is part of the wine tourism itinerary to stroll through the vineyards, learn how to pick grapes and get to know their potential, visit the wooden barrel cellar and get to know how wine is made.

One of the routes is the Vapor do Vinho – Juazeiro – Sobradinho – Casa Nova – this route includes the Lock, which allows boats to overcome the gap created by the dam, thus guaranteeing the continuity of the traditional navigation between the stretch of the São Francisco River.

Characterized by the influence of the São Francisco River, this tourist area is made up of the municipalities of Abaré, Casa Nova, Curaçá, Glória, Juazeiro, Paulo Afonso, Remanso, Rodelas, Santa Brígida and Sobradinho, whose main attractions are fishing and water sports in general.

View the Lagos de São Francisco map

Bahia’s Main Tourist Regions

Bahia.ws is the largest travel and tourism guide for Bahia and Salvador.