Situated on Brazil’s Bahia coast, Trancoso is a small village with deep historical roots and a growing reputation for sustainable tourism. Founded as a Jesuit settlement in 1586, the heart of Trancoso remains the Quadrado, a rectangular square bordered by colorful, single-story houses that now host boutique hotels, artisan shops, and restaurants. At the center of the Quadrado stands the São João Batista church, overlooking a cliff with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean—a symbol of the town’s heritage.

Trancoso’s eco-tourism efforts are evident in the way development has been carefully controlled to preserve the area’s natural beauty and cultural integrity. The beaches of Praia dos Nativos and Praia dos Coqueiros, located just a short walk from the Quadrado, remain pristine with restrictions on motorized vehicles to limit environmental impact. In addition to its beaches, Trancoso offers a unique opportunity to engage with Indigenous culture. The nearby Imbiriba and Barra Velha villages, home to the Pataxó people, welcome visitors for guided tours that focus on traditional crafts, herbal medicine, and storytelling. These experiences promote cultural exchange and provide direct economic benefits to the local communities.

Trancoso’s culinary scene reflects its connection to both land and sea. Restaurants along the Quadrado often feature local seafood, such as grilled octopus or moqueca (a coconut milk-based fish stew), alongside organic produce from nearby farms. By night, the Quadrado lights up with al fresco dining and live music, drawing both locals and travelers to share in the village’s relaxed social atmosphere.

Trancoso is ideal for those seeking a slower, deliberate travel experience, with activities like horseback rides along deserted beaches, private boat trips along the Rio da Barra, or morning yoga classes surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Whether exploring its cultural history or enjoying its unspoiled coastlines, Trancoso offers visitors a chance to engage meaningfully with the environment and community through thoughtful, sustainable tourism.