Things To Do
in Cocos

Cocos, Brazil is a charming municipality located in the state of Bahia, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The area is surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and beautiful waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The local community is welcoming, with a blend of indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences evident in its traditions and festivals.

Visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while exploring the vibrant local markets and sampling the delicious Bahian cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cocos
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café and then visit the beautiful Parque Natural Municipal de Cocos to hike and explore the diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Bahian food, followed by a visit to the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local eatery, followed by a stroll around the town center to experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps catch a local music performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Have breakfast, then take a guided tour to the stunning Cachoeira do Canto, a nearby waterfall where you can swim and relax.

afternoon
:

Return to Cocos for lunch, then explore the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by a visit to a local bar to enjoy live music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Bus ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🛒Groceries for a week$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine with a variety of options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may not have English-speaking staff.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Cocos

Visit one of these nice places.

Cachoeira do Canto

A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Parque Natural Municipal de Cocos

Offers scenic trails and viewpoints that showcase the beauty of the local ecosystem.

Cultural Center

A vibrant building filled with local art, ideal for capturing the essence of Cocos’ cultural heritage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cocos

Cocos offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect its rich cultural history.

Cocos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Acarajé

A deep-fried ball made from black-eyed peas, filled with shrimp and spices, a quintessential Bahian street food.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew prepared with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, served with rice.

Pipoca

Popcorn flavored with a mix of spices, often enjoyed as a snack during festivals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant open-air market held on weekends where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and artisanal goods.

Street Vendors

Look for street vendors selling Acarajé and other local snacks throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cocos experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature hovers around 25-30°C (77-86°F). The rainy season typically occurs between December and February, while the dry season is from June to August. Humidity can be high, especially in the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals.

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable, but modest clothing is preferred while visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Cocos is generally safe for tourists, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your belongings in crowded places. It's also recommended to use registered taxis or rideshare apps for transportation.

Tipping in Cocos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; check your bill as some places include it.

Payment Methods

Local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Warm temperatures and occasional rain; great for outdoor activities but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and less rain; ideal for hiking and exploring the natural attractions.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures with occasional rain; a good time to enjoy cultural events and indoor activities.

Spring (September - November)

Temperatures begin to rise, and the flora is vibrant; excellent for photography and sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Cocos at Night

Cocos has a vibrant nightlife scene, with local bars often featuring live music, particularly samba and forró. The atmosphere is laid-back, making it perfect for socializing and enjoying the local culture. Most bars are open late into the night, and it’s common to see locals dancing and enjoying the music.

Hiking in Cocos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Cachoeira

A scenic trail leading to Cachoeira do Canto, offering stunning views and a refreshing swimming spot.

Caminho das Pedras

A challenging hiking trail through dense forests and rocky terrains, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Cocos by plane.

Ilhéus Jorge Amado Airport (IOS)

Located approximately 120 km from Cocos, this airport offers domestic flights connecting to major Brazilian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cocos is relatively walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore local shops, restaurants, and markets on foot. However, some natural attractions may require transportation to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to indigenous groups who maintain their traditions and cultural practices.

Afro-Brazilian Population

Cocos has a significant Afro-Brazilian population that contributes to the vibrant cultural scene, especially in music and dance.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Brazil, and Cocos has local teams that engage in friendly matches.

Capoeira

A traditional Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance and acrobatics, often practiced in local communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cocos is generally light, with most locals using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation options include buses that connect different parts of the town, but schedules may vary. Ride-sharing apps are also popular for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cocos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted to vegetarian diets, but it’s best to ask in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

There are limited gluten-free options, so check with restaurants about their menu offerings.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are available in Cocos, including clinics and hospitals. For serious medical issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities may be necessary. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide