This post is also on: Português English
Serra Grande is a charming district in the municipality of Uruçuca, on the Cocoa Coast, just 43 kilometres from Ilhéus and 30 kilometres from Itacaré, two of Bahia’s iconic tourist destinations.
The village of Serra Grande is known for its tranquillity and natural beauty, situated on the BA-001 park road, an ecological corridor that runs through the lush Atlantic Forest.
Municipalities of the Cocoa Coast
A stretch of the southern coast of Bahia, located about 450 kilometres from Salvador, made up of eight municipalities:
- Itacaré
- Uruçuca
- Ilhéus
- Itabuna,
- Olivença
- Una
- Santa Luzia
- Canavieiras
This region has paradisiacal beaches surrounded by cliffs and coconut trees, as well as preserved areas of Atlantic Forest.
Serra Grande in Bahia
1. Natural beauty
With 22 kilometres of pristine beaches, Serra Grande is a paradise for nature lovers.
Its warm, crystal-clear waters, white sands and extensive coconut groves make up scenery that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. Despite its impressive beauty, the village remains unspoilt, offering a unique experience for those seeking tranquillity.
Its beaches include
- Praia do Pé de Serra: Located close to the mountains, it is ideal for those seeking a calm environment surrounded by nature.
- Praia do Sargi: With good waves, this beach is popular with surfers and also has restaurants serving typical Bahian cuisine.
- Deserted beaches: Many of Serra Grande’s beaches are accessible only by hiking trails, guaranteeing an almost exclusive experience for visitors who explore them.
The Tijuípe Waterfall is one of the most visited, with a drop of four metres high and 15 metres wide, surrounded by natural pools of crystal-clear water. For the adventurous, ropes are available to brave the current and receive a natural massage.
The Tijuípe River, above the waterfall, is an invitation to contemplate. Its calm, transparent waters reveal a golden background illuminated by the sunlight.
2. Viewpoints and landscapes
The village of Serra Grande is situated on top of a hill, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Forest and the blue sea. The Mirante da Serra, a must-see tourist attraction, offers spectacular sunsets. From there, you can appreciate the grandeur of Bahia’s southern coastline while enjoying a refreshing drink.
3. Sports and Adventures
For the more adventurous, Serra Grande offers several options:
- Paragliding: The flight from the mountains provides an unforgettable view of the forest and the ocean.
- Ecological trails: Paths surrounded by the Atlantic Forest lead to deserted beaches, rivers and waterfalls.
- Surfing: Some beaches in the region, such as Praia do Sargi, have good waves for practising the sport.
4. Culture and Gastronomy
Serra Grande is not just a natural refuge; its Vila Alta is the centre of cultural and commercial activities. The community organises fairs and events that value local products such as handicrafts, tropical fruit and cocoa derivatives.
The local gastronomy is another attraction, with restaurants serving typical Bahian dishes such as moquecas, acarajé and fresh seafood. Tourists can also visit cocoa farms, learn about cocoa cultivation and try the famous Costa do Cacau chocolate.
5. Natural Heritage and Sustainability
The Serra Grande region is part of the Atlantic Forest Ecopark, recognised as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. This protection guarantees the preservation of its biodiversity, which includes endangered species. The area is home to rare birds, monkeys and a rich tropical flora.
6. Accessibility and Park Road
Access to Serra Grande is an experience in itself. The BA-001 park road, known as the ‘vein of the Atlantic Rainforest’, offers incredible views of unspoilt forest. Arriving at the destination is like a prelude to what the village has to offer: a unique contact with nature.
7. Climate
Serra Grande’s tropical climate is ideal for enjoying its natural beauty. During the summer, the days are sunny, with temperatures that exceed 30°C and make swimming in the sea and waterfalls irresistible.
8. Tips for visitors
- Accommodation: There are hotels, guesthouses and holiday homes to choose from, both in Vila Alta and in the beach towns.
- Exploring: Take time toexplore the lesser-known trails and waterfalls.
- Sustainability: Respect the preserved areas and opt for ecological practices during your stay.
9. Conclusion
Whether you want to relax on the deserted beaches, venture out on the Atlantic Forest trails or simply contemplate the view from the Mirante, Serra Grande is a destination that brings together the best of Bahia’s southern coastline. Ideal for those seeking tranquillity, a connection with nature and unforgettable experiences.
Videos about Serra Grande in Bahia
Tourist attractions in Serra Grande
1. Natural Beauty and Atlantic Rainforest
- Features of the Region: Serra Grande is much more than just beautiful beaches; it is home to rivers, waterfalls and one of the largest remaining Atlantic Forest reserves in the Northeast.
- Importance of Conservation: Only 5% of the original extent of the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest remains, but the Serra Grande region still conserves 31% of its area with original cover.
- Worldwide Recognition: The Itacaré Serra Grande APA is an Atlantic Rainforest Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Fauna and Flora: The region is home to endangered species such as the yellow-breasted capuchin monkey and the collared sloth. The forests have tall evergreen trees and a rich diversity of epiphytes.
2. Parks and Reserves
- APA Itacaré Serra Grande:
- Area of 62,000 hectares covering rivers, mangroves, sandbanks and dense forest.
- Rich in biodiversity and one of the most important protected areas in Brazil.
- Serra do Conduru State Park (PESC):
- Covering 9,275 hectares, the PESC is a symbol of environmental preservation.
- A study identified 456 tree species in a single hectare, which is a world record.
- Created in 1997 as environmental compensation for the construction of the BA-001 motorway.
3. Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPN)
- Capitão Reserve: One of the largest RPPNs in Brazil, covering 973 hectares, and part of the Serra do Conduru State Park.
- RPPN Pedra do Sabiá: With 117 hectares, it complements a total of 1,300 hectares of private reserves.
- Research and Studies: The reserves have been sites for studies on trees, birds, mammals and endangered species such as the yellow-breasted capuchin monkey.
4. Woodland and River Walks
- Trails and Wildlife Watching: Trails allow you to get in touch with nature, watch squirrels, birds and foxes, as well as take a dip in rivers and natural pools.
- Rio de Contas: 620 kilometres from its source in the Chapada Diamantina to Itacaré. Canoe or boat trips are popular, accompanied by local legends and stories.
See Rafting in Taboquinhas
5. Highlights of the Serra do Conduru State Park
- Biodiversity: With a high degree of endemism, the park is one of the most ecologically diverse areas on the planet.
- Natural Attractions: Lush landscapes, crystal-clear streams and waterfalls make the park an ideal destination for nature tourism.
- Access: The park can be reached via the Serra Grande/Uruçuca motorway (BA-653). In rainy periods, a 4×4 vehicle is required.
Serra Grande is a destination that combines natural beauty and environmental conservation, ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and direct contact with the rich biodiversity of the Atlantic Rainforest.
Tourist Guide to Serra Grande in Bahia