The Marau Peninsula is a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Camamu Bay, the third largest bay in Brazil. It is about 3½ hours south of Salvador overland, and a 45 minute plane ride. The landscape is characterised by pristine beaches, coconut groves, Atlantic forest reserves, mangroves and traditional communities of fishermen and boat builders. It is a beautiful place to relax, gain an insight into traditional coastal life, and escape from the more crowded beaches found further north.
The base for this extension is the Pousada Lagoa do Cassange, a 13 cabana pousada sandwiched between the ocean and a lake. Two full day tours are included accompanied by an English speaking guide. The first tour visits some of the islands of Camamu Bay by boat, including the boat building community of Cajaiba and the strange eroded rock formations of Ilha Pedra Furada. Lunch is served at a local fishermens restaurant, with freshly caught seafood a speciality. The afternoon is spent visiting local fishing communities and gaining an insight into this traditional way of life.
Spend the second day exploring the peninsula by jeep or open back truck. The highlight of the day is a snorkelling trip to the pools of Taipu de Fora. At low tide a natural pool forms between the beach and off shore reefs providing perfect conditions for snorkelling, and there are a variety of colourful fish to be seen. Lunch is at a local seafood restaurant and the afternoon is spent visiting a lighthouse for wideranging views across the peninsula and Camamu Bay, a quick dip in the Blue Lake, and a short hike into the bromeliad ‘forest’ to see metre wide bromeliads perched precariously in the trees.
Depending on onward arrangements the final morning is spent at the Pousada, perhaps with a final swim or a cold drink relaxing on a sun lounger. Then transfer back to Salvador. A transfer by light aircraft from Barra Grande to Salvador is available for an additional charge.