Conde (BA): Nature, Tradition and Hidden Gems on the Costa dos Coqueiros
Located some 180 km from Salvador, the municipality of Conde in Bahia — not to be confused with the town of the same name in Paraíba —, on Bahia’s northern coast, is a destination still largely unexplored by many tourists — but with landscapes that surprise even the most experienced travellers.
Situated on the Costa dos Coqueiros, along the Linha Verde (BA-099), Conde charms visitors with its tranquil beaches, winding rivers, unspoilt mangroves, golden dunes and a way of life that blends tradition and simplicity.
Videos about tourist attractions in Conde, Bahia
Praias do conde, sitio do conde, siribinha, cavalo russo e rio de pedras01:40
Praia de Sítio do Conde04:50
Siribinha na Bahia
Conde BA - Guia de Turismo03:50
Praia de Siribinha em Conde BA05:40
Barra do Itariri no município do Conde (BA)01:25
Barra do Itariri em Conde BA02:19
Things to do in the municipality of Conde, Bahia
1. Sítio do Conde Beach – Beach and tranquillity
The main tourist area in the municipality of Conde, Sítio do Conde is known for its beach with calm waters and fine white sand, ideal for relaxing swims and walks along the seafront.
The region boasts a good range of guesthouses, bars and restaurants, as well as beachfront stalls. It is the perfect starting point for exploring the municipality’s other attractions.
2. Praia dos Artistas (Corre Nu) – For those seeking peace and quiet
This beach is just 3 km from the farm and offers a charming, rustic setting, with warm, calm waters, gentle dunes and plenty of coconut palms.
Perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the coast in a peaceful setting, close to nature. Simple beach huts and the surrounding holiday complexes ensure a basic level of comfort and facilities.
3. Praia das Poças – Simple and charming
With its white sand, coconut groves and stronger waves, Praia das Poças is home to a small fishing village and is the region’s only natural harbour for small boats.
Motorised canoe trips along the rivers and through the mangroves set off from there. It’s a great spot for anyone who enjoys community-based tourism.
4. Russian Horse – Adventure in the Dunes
Imagine sliding down a dune over 20 metres high straight into the reddish waters of a river! That’s what Cavalo Russo offers, one of the region’s most thrilling attractions.
You can get there by boat from Poças (45 mins) or Siribinha (10 mins). It’s also a great spot for swimming, surrounded by white dunes and unspoilt vegetation.
5. Siribinha – A rustic, picture-perfect village
Located 16 km from Sítio do Conde, the village of Siribinha lies at the mouth of the River Itapicuru and retains a simple, charming way of life. Surrounded by dunes, mangroves and coconut palms, Siribinha was the setting for the film Tieta do Agreste, based on the work of Jorge Amado.
The village offers boat trips and buggy rides, as well as peaceful beaches teeming with biodiversity.
6. Barra do Itariri – A charming meeting of river and sea
Around 13 km from Sítio do Conde, Barra do Itariri is one of the municipality’s most picturesque spots. The river meets the sea, forming natural pools, gentle dunes and sandbanks that are ideal for walking across at low tide. The scenery is complemented by coconut groves and rustic beach huts, perfect for sampling traditional dishes by the sea.
7. Vila Velha do Conde – Heritage and tradition
Perched on top of a hill, this little-known village preserves historical remains from the colonial period, including an old church, simple houses and cobbled streets. It is a great place for anyone interested in history, popular culture and photography.
8. Regional Gastronomy
The cuisine of Conde is rich and flavourful, with fresh seafood – such as moquecas, prawns and stews – taking centre stage. You can also sample acarajé, beiju, handmade cocadas and stuffed tapiocas sold by local residents. A real treat for the taste buds!
9. Practical tips for enjoying Conde
- How to get there: Take the Linha Verde (BA-099), heading north from Salvador. The road is well signposted.
- Best time to visit: Between September and March, when the weather is drier and sunnier.
- Not to be missed: A boat trip along the Itapicuru River, a descent down the Cavalo Russo dune, and the sunset at Siribinha.
The History of Conde (BA): A Land of Traditions and Miracles
Situated on the northern coast of Bahia and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean’s extensive beaches, the municipality of Conde is a destination that combines lush natural beauty, a rich culture and a fascinating history.
1. Indigenous Origins and the Arrival of the Jesuits
Before the arrival of the colonisers, the territory was inhabited by the brave Tupinambás, indigenous peoples who dominated the region. During the governorship of Mem de Sá, the Jesuit priests arrived, with the aim of catechising the natives. This peaceful coexistence led to the establishment of a village, thanks to a land lease granted by the Jesuits in 1621, which was confirmed by Garcia d’Ávila in 1650.
2. Colonisation and Development
The fertile land attracted Portuguese settlers, who devoted themselves to the production of sugar cane, tobacco and cattle farming, leading to the construction of several sugar mills. Thus was founded the settlement known as Itapicuru de Baixo, which was elevated to the status of a parish in 1702 under the name Nossa Senhora do Monte de Itapicuru da Praia.
In 1806, by order of the Count of Arcos, the parish was elevated to the status of Vila do Conde, a name it retains to this day. The economy grew and the region prospered — until a severe flood of the River Itapicuru in 1912 forced the relocation of the municipal seat to Esplanada, leaving Conde in the background.
3. The Struggle for Emancipation
Over time, the people eventually rose up in revolt against the situation. Leaders such as Lamberto Pinto, Minervino do Carmo and Rodolfo Lins organised an independence movement. The struggle was arduous and, sadly, resulted in Minervino’s death. But the effort bore fruit: on 10 August 1935, Conde achieved political emancipation, with Hermógenes Gomes Nascimento as its first appointed mayor.
4. Location and Economy
Conde borders Jandaíra and Rio Real (north), Rio Inhambupe (south), Esplanada (west) and the Atlantic Ocean (east). The town is approximately 180 km from Salvador by motorway.
Today, with a population of around 23,654 (2022 IBGE Census), the municipality’s economy is based on tourism, the cultivation of Bahia coconuts and livestock farming.
Mysticism and Faith: The Miracle of Alto do Cruzeiro
In the city’s oldest neighbourhood, Vila do Conde, lies Alto do Cruzeiro, a tourist attraction steeped in faith and legends.
According to local residents, the statue of Nossa Senhora do Monte once disappeared from the local church and was found perched on top of a tree, high up on a hill. Even after being returned to the altar, the statue would keep returning of its own accord to the same spot. Believing this to be a divine sign, the faithful built a chapel there dedicated to the saint.
Today, Alto do Cruzeiro is a place of pilgrimage, notable in particular for a miraculous spring that never runs dry. Visitors seek healing, say their prayers and leave votive offerings as a token of gratitude for the blessings they have received.
Discover Conde!
With its idyllic beaches, cultural traditions and inspiring stories, Conde is much more than just a tourist destination: it is a place where faith, nature and history come together.
Frequently asked questions about the municipality of Conde, Bahia
Is Conde, Bahia the same town as Conde, Paraíba?
No. They are two different municipalities with the same name. This guide is about Conde, on the north coast of Bahia, part of the Costa dos Coqueiros — as distinct from the municipality of Conde in Paraíba, known for Tambaba beach.
How many days does it take to get to know the Count?
To visit the main beaches (Sítio do Conde, Barra do Itariri, Siribinha) and go on the Cavalo Russo tour, 3 to 4 days is ideal.
When is the best time to visit Conde?
Between September and March, when the weather is drier and sunnier, is the best time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.
How do I get to Conde from Salvador?
Access is via the Linha Verde (BA-099), a well-signposted motorway linking Salvador to the north coast of Bahia, a distance of approximately 180 km.
What is the Russian Horse?
It is one of the region’s most thrilling attractions: a dune over 20 metres high from which you can slide straight into the reddish waters of a river. It can be reached by boat from Poças or Siribinha.
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