Porto Seguro
Porto Seguro (or just Porto) is famous for its beautiful beaches, remarkable cuisine and incredible leisure centers. The destination is much more than that, though. Those who love contact with nature will find an ecotourism haven.
It comes with no surprise that the state of Bahia is one of the richest in natural beauties and a true haven for ecotourism. In the city of Porto Seguro, it is no different. Have you ever pictured yourself watching whales in their natural habitat? In Porto Seguro, you can. The adventure begins with an informative talk about whales and safety procedures to be followed on board.
All practices are applied according to sighting standards to make sure the animals’ wellbeing is preserved. Depending on the ocean’s conditions, there is a possibility of hearing the singing of the whales, which makes this experience even more magical. It is very important to know that the whale-watching season occurs during the months of July and October. It is undoubtedly an amazing way to make special memories!
official event links below.
Veracel Private Natural Heritage Reserve
On dry land, the Mount Pascoal National and Historical Park is an amazing attraction. The legend says it was the first spot Portuguese colonizers saw when they arrived in Brazil. They believed it was a mount and named it Mount Pascoal (in reference to “mount of Easter”, since “páscoa” means Easter in Portuguese) because their arrival happened around that time of year. The mount is more than 17 hundred feet high and the view from atop of it is simply breathtaking. Visiting the site means the opportunity to be near more than 10 thousand plant species, hundreds of animal species and unmatched biodiversity. Besides, it is a chance to understand more about some of Brazil’s historical events.
Inside more than 49 thousand acres, there is a wide natural protection area and unique landscapes that include the Aldeia de Barra Velha beach, preserved sandbank vegetation, mangrove, Caraíva and Corumbau river beaches, Mussununga fields (located in the extreme south of the state), as well as the Atlantic forest, one of the most diverse biomes in the world.
Beach trekking and hiking, ocean or river bathing, sightseeing, fauna and flora watching, canoeing, boat trips on the river, engaging in indigenous cultural demonstrations, experiencing the local way of life, tasting the local cuisine and buying handmade souvenirs are amongst the activities the visitor will find at the spot. It is also important to know that attractions in the park are allowed for visitation only in the presence of indigenous guides.
Still in Porto Seguro, tourists can visit the Veracel Private Natural Heritage Reserve. It is nearly 15 thousand acres wide, containing the counties of Porto Seguro and Santa Cruz Cabrália. Located only 9 miles away from Porto, the reserve is placed in the heart of the Atlantic forest. It is the place to go for bird watching and contact with nature.
Pau Brasil National Park, a natural protection area that keeps an important part of Brazil’s history, is also worth the visit. Nearly 47 thousand acres wide, it is located about 21 miles away from Porto Seguro and offers activities such as zip line ride, bird watching, walks on tree-lined trails, camping, sighting waterfalls and trekking. Furthermore, the park is home to beautiful tree species, like pau-brasil, braúna, maçaranduba and arapoti. As for the fauna, onça-pintada (a native feline), harpy and chauá parrot are some of the species you may find there.
Back in the ocean, the Recife de Fora Marine Park is third in the list of largest places of marine diversity in Brazil. It is based five nautical miles away from Porto Seguro’s shore, which equals about an hour in a schooner ride. The park offers tourists the chance to observe sea life, such as turtles, fish and reef banks up-close. The ride happens in low tide and is an unforgettable experience.
With countless possibilities, Porto Seguro is a great destination for those in search of a variety of natural attractions.
By Plane
+55 (73) 3288-1880
Porto Seguro Airport operates non-stop flights from several major cities in Brazil, such as Brasília, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, and São Paulo.
Personal Vehicles and Rentals
If you are driving to Porto Seguro from Salvador, you will need to take Federal Highway BR-101 to Eunápolis and then Highway BR-376 to Porto Seguro. In total, it is a 440-mile drive.
By Bus
+55 (73) 3288-1914
Porto Seguro Bus Station operates several interstate bus routes. The nearest major city is Salvador.
Personal Vehicles and Rentals
If you want to visit local attractions in your own time, a good option is to rent a car.
Taxis and Ridesharing Companies
Taxis and ridesharing companies are also available in Porto Seguro.
Useful Numbers
Porto Seguro Tourism Hotline:
+55 (73) 3012-2782
Military Police: 190
Paramedics: 192
Fire Department: 193
Power Voltage
220V
Local Weather
The weather in Porto Seguro is so good that it can be enjoyed all year round. Average local temperature is 25°C, but it can reach 40°C in the summer.