Things To Do
in Flores

Flores, Bahia is a small coastal town in northeastern Brazil known for its laid-back vibe, colorful waterfront houses, and nearby mangrove estuaries. It serves as a quiet gateway to river systems, fishing culture, and nearby beaches with simple, flavorful Bahian cuisine. The town’s colonial churches and narrow streets reveal a slower pace of life, perfect for sunset strolls and seafood dinners.

Visitors can explore on foot, take short boat trips, and soak in the warm, tropical atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Flores
morning
:

Arrive in Flores and check into your accommodation, taking a moment to settle in and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Explore the nearby local market to get a feel for the culture and grab some fresh fruit for a snack. Stroll along the quaint streets and admire the charming colonial architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, trying the regional specialties that Flores is known for. Afterward, embark on a guided tour of the town to learn about its history and significance in Brazil. Visit quaint shops and boutiques to pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a recommended local restaurant that offers an authentic dining experience with traditional music. Take a tranquil evening walk along the riverside, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Flores at night. Wind down with a nightcap at a cozy bar while meeting locals and other travelers.

day 2
Exploration of Chapada Diamantina
morning
:

Set out early on a guided hike into the Chapada Diamantina National Park, where you will witness breathtaking landscapes and stunning waterfalls. As you wander through trails, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife and unique flora. Stop for a mid-morning snack while appreciating panoramic views from a viewpoint.

afternoon
:

Continue your hike to explore the famous Fumaça Waterfall, taking time to swim in natural pools and relax amidst spectacular surroundings. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, feeling rejuvenated by the fresh air. Capture memorable photos of the towering cliffs and vibrant greenery.

evening
:

Return to Flores in the evening, where you can freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a local restaurant that offers a warm ambiance and local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Share stories with fellow travelers over a delicious meal, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🧋Coffee or tea$2-4
🚌Public transport fare$0.50-1.50 per ride
🏨Budget hotel room$25-45 per night
🍺Domestic beer$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Coastal Bahian cuisine and seafood
  • Access to mangroves, beaches, and river scenery
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Seasonal rain can affect outdoor plans
  • Roads and buses can be slower in rural routes
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica..." - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Flores

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça da Mangueira

Colorful town square with colonial façades and boats along the riverfront.

Morro do Saco viewpoint

Elevated vantage point offering sweeping views of the estuary and coastline.

Cais do Flores

Old waterfront dock with fishing boats and reflective morning light.

Culinary Guide

Food in Flores

Bahian cuisine is built on seafood, coconut milk, dendê oil, and bright herbs. In Flores you’ll find simple, flavorful dishes that celebrate coastal ingredients.

Flores Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca de Peixe

Fragrant fish stew with coconut milk, dendê oil, onions, peppers, and garlic, typically served with rice and pirão.

Must-Try!

Acarajé

Fried bean fritters often filled with vatapá and caruru, common at local stalls and seaside eateries.

Bobó de Camarão

Creamy shrimp stew with cassava purée and dendê oil, a Bahian seafood staple.

Caruru

Okra-based stew with dried shrimp and palm oil; pairs well with rice and cassava.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Flores

Local market offering fresh fish, tropical fruits, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Feirinhas de Rua

Street stalls serving tapioca, fried snacks, and fresh coconut water along the waterfront.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical year-round; warm temperatures with a defined rainy season and a dry season. Humidity is high, with typical highs around 28-32°C (82-90°F) and cooler evenings near the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Say 'Olá' or 'Oi'; a handshake or light kiss on the cheek among friends is common.

Respect for local customs

Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in quiet areas; ask before photographing people.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice general travel safety: stay aware of petty theft in markets and on beaches, use reputable transport, and keep valuables secure. Hydrate, protect against sun, and have travel insurance. Evening safety tips include staying in well-lit areas and avoiding isolated spots after dark.

Tipping in Flores

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated if service isn’t included; 5-10% is common in restaurants. Small tips for taxi drivers or hotel staff are welcomed.

Payment Methods

Cash in BRL is widely accepted; cards are common in larger places; Pix and bank transfers are increasingly used for mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (roughly October to March)

Warm days with less rain; ideal for beaches, boat trips, and outdoor dining. Hydration and sun protection are essential.

Rainy season (roughly April to September)

Brief, heavy showers in the afternoon are common; plan flexible outdoor activities and bring a light rain jacket.

Fruit and seafood season

Harvest periods bring abundant fresh produce and seafood; great for markets and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Flores at Night

Flores offers a laid-back nightlife with beach bars and casual live music. Evenings are relaxed, with sunset drinks and sometimes forró or samba. Late-night scenes are quieter than in major cities.

Hiking in Flores

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mangrove trails near the estuary

Flat, easy trails offering bird watching and calm water scenery.

Hill overlook trails near the town

Short hikes to viewpoints with coastal panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Flores by plane.

SSA – Salvador Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport

Main international airport serving the region; transfers to Flores typically by road or domestic flight arrangements to nearby towns.

IOS – Ilhéus Jorge Amado Airport

Regional airport with connections to major Brazilian cities; useful for trips to the region.

BPS – Porto Seguro Airport

Coastal airport serving popular tourist routes; longer drive but offers alternative access and multi-destination itineraries.

Getting Around

Walkability

Flores has a compact center that is walkable, with waterfront paths and narrow streets. Distances between sights are short, though some hills and uneven pavement can require effort.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Pardo (mixed race) and White

Majority demographics with diverse cultural influences in the coastal and inland areas.

Afro-Brazilian communities

Cultural influence visible in music, cuisine, and religious practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Futebol)

The most popular sport in Brazil; local matches and informal games near beaches are common.

Beach volleyball

Played on many beaches; suitable for players and spectators.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the mornings and late afternoons; roads can be slower during peak tourist season. Local transport includes buses, taxis, and informal ride-hailing services; street parking is limited in the center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Flores.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Bahian dishes rely on seafood; look for bean stews, rice, cassava, and veggie options; ask for substitutions and protein-rich sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities exist in town; for more complex care, travel to larger cities like Salvador or Ilhéus for hospitals and specialized services. Bring insurance and confirm language support if needed.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide