Things To Do
in Coração de Maria

Coração de Maria is a charming municipality located in the state of Bahia, Brazil. Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Brazilian life. The town boasts a friendly community and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

With its warm climate and vibrant local festivals, Coração de Maria provides an authentic Brazilian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh fruits.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic center of Coração de Maria, visiting landmarks like the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Bahian cuisine, followed by a stroll around the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Embark on a guided hike in the nearby Serra do Coração mountains, taking in the breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Visit a local farm to learn about traditional farming methods and try your hand at some activities.

evening
:

Wind down your day with a relaxing evening at a local bar, enjoying a refreshing caipirinha.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🚍Local bus fare$1
Cup of coffee$2
🥤Bottle of water$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
  • Limited transportation infrastructure
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Coração de Maria

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Our Lady of the Rosary

A beautiful colonial church with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Coração de Maria.

Serra do Coração

A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for landscape photography.

Local Market

The vibrant colors and bustling activity of the market provide an excellent backdrop for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coração de Maria

Coração de Maria offers a delightful culinary scene rich in Bahian flavors and local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's culture.

Coração de Maria Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Acarajé

A deep-fried ball made of black-eyed peas, filled with shrimp and served with spicy sauce.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and street food.

Feira Livre

An open-air market held on weekends, featuring a variety of local snacks and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coração de Maria experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from November to March, bringing heavy rains, while the dry season lasts from April to October, featuring sunny and less humid weather. Average temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer, making it a year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable clothing is appropriate, but dressing modestly is advised when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Traditions

Participating in local festivals and respecting cultural practices is highly appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coração de Maria is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items and stay in well-lit areas at night. It's advisable to be cautious with street food and drink only bottled water to avoid any health issues.

Tipping in Coração de Maria

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants and cafes, though it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many establishments also accept credit cards; ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot and humid weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), great for beach activities.

Autumn (March - May)

Temperatures begin to cool slightly, making it a pleasant time to explore the outdoors.

Winter (June - August)

This is the coolest season with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), perfect for hiking.

Spring (September - November)

Warm temperatures return, and the region experiences occasional rain, enhancing the lush greenery.

Nightlife Guide

Coração de Maria at Night

Coração de Maria's nightlife is laid-back, with local bars and small clubs featuring live music, particularly samba and forró. Many venues offer a cozy atmosphere where locals gather to socialize and enjoy traditional drinks like cachaça and caipirinhas. The nightlife is more vibrant during festival seasons, where street parties and cultural events occur.

Hiking in Coração de Maria

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Serra

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys, suitable for all skill levels.

Caminho do Rio

This trail follows the river, providing an enjoyable hike with opportunities for birdwatching and cooling off in the water.

Airports

How to reach Coração de Maria by plane.

Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport

Located approximately 100 km from Coração de Maria, this is the nearest major airport with domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coração de Maria is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. The streets are generally safe and pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore the town at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bahian Locals

The majority of the population is of mixed African and Portuguese descent, which is reflected in the town's culture and traditions.

Tourists

Visitors from around Brazil and abroad come to experience the unique cultural offerings and natural beauty of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and community matches attracting passionate fans.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is a common pastime, especially during the warmer months, with many locals participating in games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Coração de Maria is generally light, and the town can be navigated easily by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses and shared taxis. Road conditions can vary, so caution is advised when traveling outside the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coração de Maria.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, primarily made from beans, rice, and vegetables.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional dishes are often gluten-free, it's advisable to check with restaurants for specific options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Coração de Maria is basic, with a few clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. For more serious medical needs, larger cities like Feira de Santana, which is about 30 kilometers away, offer better facilities. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide