Things To Do
in Lontra

Lontra, Brazil is a small coastal town in Bahia known for its warm hospitality and Atlantic vistas. The town blends Afro-Brazilian influences in music, cuisine, and daily life, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Its markets, colorful streets, and nearby beaches invite both wanderers and families seeking easy access to nature and culture.

Visitors can expect fresh seafood, lively rhythms, and a welcoming community that makes exploration effortless.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Pantanal
morning
:

Start your adventure with a guided tour in the world's largest tropical wetland, the Pantanal. Enjoy birdwatching and the rich biodiversity as you navigate through the lush landscapes. The early hours offer a mystical experience, as wildlife is often more active, showcasing the region’s stunning flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

After a hearty lunch, embark on a boat trip to get a different perspective of the Pantanal. Glide through winding waterways while keeping an eye out for caimans, capybaras, and colorful birds. The afternoon sun adds warmth to the experience, making it a perfect time for photography.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Brazilian barbecue dinner under the stars. Engage with local guides sharing stories about the Pantanal’s ecology and culture. The night ends with the soothing sounds of nature, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

day 2
Visit the City of Aquidauana
morning
:

Head towards Aquidauana, where you’ll discover its charming colonial architecture and rich history. Spend the morning exploring local markets and interacting with friendly locals. Experience the vibrant culture through arts, crafts, and traditional foods unique to the region.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Museu de História de Aquidauana to dive deeper into the area's fascinating past. The museum features exhibits on indigenous cultures and the impact of the rubber boom in Brazil. Pay a visit to nearby sights, including the picturesque riverside and its beautiful natural scenery.

evening
:

As the day winds down, savor dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Enjoy local delicacies like 'patarashca' and traditional sweets as you reflect on the day's adventures. The inviting atmosphere and warm hospitality make for a perfect ending to your visit.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🚌Public transport ride$0.75-1.50
Coffee at a café$1-2
🍷Glass of local wine$6-10
🎟️Museum entrance$3-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Coastal scenery and vibrant music scene
  • Friendly locals and affordable prices
  • Direct access to beaches and nature trails
  • Limited international flight options directly to Lontra
  • Rougher road conditions to some remote spots
  • Seasonal rainfall can affect outdoor plans
  • "Oi, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Pode me sugerir um prato vegetariano?" - Can you suggest a vegetarian dish?
  • "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quero água sem gás, por favor" - I’d like still water, please

Places to Visit in Lontra

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia do Lontra at Sunset

Wide sandy beach with dramatic skies and warm light; ideal for long exposures and silhouettes.

Historic Plaza with Colorful Facades

A cluster of pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets perfect for portrait and street photography.

Cliffside Vista Point

Panoramic Atlantic views with waves breaking on rocky shoreline; great for golden hour shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lontra

Lontra’s cuisine blends Afro-Brazilian flavors with coastal seafood, tropical fruits, and hearty regional staples. Expect bold coconut milk, dendê oil, peppers, and fresh herbs that define Bahian cooking.

Lontra Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Acarajé

A deep-fried bean cake served with vatapá and pepper sauce; popular at street stalls and waterfront kiosks.

Must-Try!

Moqueca Baiana

A fragrant fish stew with dendê oil and coconut milk, typically served with rice and farofa.

Vatapá

Creamy shrimp and bread dish enriched with coconut milk and palm oil; often enjoyed with rice.

Bobó de Camarão

Shrimp purée simmered in coconut milk, cassava and dendê oil; best enjoyed with white rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Popular de Lontra

A bustling local market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, cassava products, and regional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lontra enjoys a tropical coastal climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season typically runs from May to September, while the wet season brings humidity and regular rain from December to March. Humidity is high most of the year, making sea breezes feel refreshing yet heavy at times.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Pace

Greet with a warm 'bom dia/boa tarde' and engage in light conversation; Brazilians value friendliness and personal warmth. Punctuality is appreciated for formal events but social gatherings are often laid-back.

Dress and Behavior

Dress codes are casual for most day-to-day activities; modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take common-sense precautions: stay in well-lit areas at night, keep valuables secure, and use reputable transport. Petty theft can occur in crowded markets; avoid isolated beaches after dark and keep an eye on children near water.

Tipping in Lontra

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is common if service is not included; small gratuities for taxi drivers or hotel staff are appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; credit and debit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels. Mobile payments are increasingly available in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with strong sun; frequent afternoon showers. Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a light rain layer.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and less humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography near the coast.

Winter

Warm days with cooler evenings; sea breezes can be refreshing. Layers are useful for evenings by the beach.

Nightlife Guide

Lontra at Night

The nightlife blends beachside bars, live music venues, and informal street performances. Expect forró, samba-reggae, and axé rhythms, with a relaxed dress code and late-night hours that stretch into the early morning at popular spots.

Hiking in Lontra

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Leste Costeiro

Coastal trail with sea cliffs, vantage points, and opportunities to spot seabirds.

Reserva Natural Manguezal do Oeste

Mangrove boardwalk with interpretive signs; ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.

Airports

How to reach Lontra by plane.

Salvador–Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA)

Major international gateway to Bahia; typically a 2–3 hour drive to Lontra depending on traffic and route.

Ilhéus – Jorge Amado Airport (IOS)

Regional airport serving the Itabuna/Ilhéus region; closer to Lontra but with more limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The historic center is highly walkable with compact streets and limited vehicle traffic in core areas. For longer trips or beach access, taxis or rideshare apps are reliable. Some cobblestone sections can be uneven for strollers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local families

Many residents live and work in Lontra, with strong community networks and family-oriented activities.

Tourists and surfers

Visitors drawn to beaches and culture; friendly, laid-back vibe with a growing tourism infrastructure.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol

The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common on weekends and in parks.

Vôlei de praia

Beach volleyball played on public courts near the shore; popular during sunny days.

Kitesurfing

Coastal winds make nearby beaches a good spot for beginners and experienced riders during certain seasons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate in town, with peak hours in late afternoon. Public transport includes buses and ride-hailing services; roads to more remote beaches can be narrow and winding. Plan extra time for weekend trips when crowds increase.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lontra.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Opt for tubers, beans, and fresh vegetables; many non-meat dishes can be prepared without dendê oil upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available domestically via SUS facilities and private clinics in larger nearby towns. For complex care, plan access to private hospitals and carry health insurance information. Pharmacies are widespread and staff typically speak basic Portuguese; English may be limited.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide