Diving, underwater caves and a wide variety of marine wildlife

Diving in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Abrolhos Archipelago in the  southernmost part of Bahia is an unforgettable experience in ecological adventure. The array of options is surprising and, depending on the time of year, it is possible to witness the spectacular water ballet of humpback whales.

Visitors can also explore sunken vessels and underwater caves on professionally guided tours, gaze in wonder at reef formations with several rare species of coral, such as “brain coral,” or simply admire one of the most beautiful marine landscapes on the Brazilian coast. There is truly magic and enchantment in the archipelago.

The municipalities of Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas, Nova Viçosa and Mucuri are all within the Whale Coast region and, besides their own natural attractions, they are the main gateways to the Abrolhos Underwater Marine Reserve, the first underwater preservation area in Brazil. The National Park, which is 32 nautical miles from Caravelas—the closest town on the mainland, protects a wide variety of coral reefs, volcanic islands with mangroves and tidal wetlands.

The region’s biodiversity fascinates environmentalists, students and tourists alike.  Abrolhos has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife per square meter on earth, both in quantity and variety.  The underwater world is a veritable rainbow of corals with 17 known species that form habitats home to countless other marine organisms.

Whale watching is the preferred pastime for the many tourists who visit between July and November when the humpback whales make their yearly migration to Abrolhos.

The main gateways to Abrolhos are the cities of Alcobaça, Caravela and Nova Viçosa. Alcobaça jealously guards the secrets of treasures hidden along the coast by French pirates and memories of the expeditions by the first Portuguese explorers, who chose São Bernardo as the town’s patron saint. There is even an airport in Alcobaça, which facilitates transport in the region.