> Regional Tips

Cachoeira is considered one of the jewels of Brazilian historical heritage, rich with beautiful houses and churches. Located in the “Recôncavo Baiano” on the banks of the River Paraguaçu, the city had its economic heyday in the 18th and 19th centuries, when its port was used for the shipping of refined sugar and tobacco to Europe. It also stands out as a major center for the African-Brazilian culture. In the first weekend after  August 15, happens the “Festa da Irmandade da Boa Morte”, (the festivalof  The Sisterhood of the Good Death) This is a sisterhood of women descended from slaves, created in 1820, first, to liberate the slaves by helping them to escape. After the abolition of slavery in Brazil they became closer to the Catholic Church by celebrating the death and assumption of the Virgin Mary. The festival is important and fills the city with tourists, mostly of African-descendant and scholars from around the globe. 120km away from Salvador, buses leave every hour from the Main Bus Terminal (rodoviária). To reach the station, take the bus “Estação Pirajá” in front of the beach at Porto da Barra.

Tip: leave early to enjoy everything! Cachoeria  is small, bucolic and very beautiful! Cross the bridge, built for Emperor Pedro II, and get to know São Felix, which lies  across the Rio Paraguaçu.