Travelling in Brazil

Discovering Brazil: A Journey to Porto Seguro and Trancoso

With over 8,000 kilometres of coastline and an area spanning 8.5 million square kilometres, Brazil, the largest country in South America, offers endless destinations to explore. Choosing where to visit can be a challenge.

While many international tourists flock to iconic cities like Rio de Janeiro or the awe-inspiring Foz do Iguaçu, today I want to highlight a hidden gem along Brazil’s breathtaking coastline: the State of Bahia.

Bahia: A Cultural and Coastal Treasure

Bahia, located in northeastern Brazil, is famed for its vibrant capital, Salvador. Known for its rich cultural history, colonial architecture, and lively Carnival celebrations, Salvador is a destination in its own right.

However, my focus lies on a special corner of Bahia: Porto Seguro—including the enchanting towns of Arraial D’Ajuda and Trancoso.

Getting to Porto Seguro

Situated in southern Bahia, Porto Seguro is just a 90-minute flight from São Paulo, making it an easily accessible destination. As one of the oldest cities in Brazil, Porto Seguro boasts well-preserved historical landmarks dating back to Portuguese colonisation. A visit to its historical centre is a step back in time, offering a glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past. Once known for its vibrant party scene, particularly during Carnival, Porto Seguro has since evolved into a much calmer and family-friendly destination.

Trancoso: A Magical Escape

From Porto Seguro Airport, our journey took us to Trancoso, a charming town that left an unforgettable impression. It had been exactly 30 years since my last visit, and this time, I returned with my children to experience the magic all over again. Trancoso is a paradise of natural beauty, with pristine beaches, colourful houses, and a tranquil vibe. It’s one of the most picturesque and serene places I have ever visited.