Choosing between a stay in Mangue Seco or the Marau Peninsula? (Brazil)

Hi there,

We’re heading to Salvador de Bahia (which we already know) for 15 days in February 2011. We’d like to spend 3 days either in Mangue Seco or on the Marau Peninsula.

We’re torn because we’ve only found pretty basic info in the guidebooks about these two spots. We’re worried Marau might be really touristy and overdeveloped, but on the other hand, getting to Mangue Seco seems super complicated.

What do you think?

Thanks!

Bernard

Dried mango is sublime. Access to the village isn’t complicated, but to get to the beaches, you’ll need to rent a buggy—though it’s worth the cost!

Good evening,

You can take a look at my blog (in my signature below). I recount my 2008 trip there, including my adventures across the Marau Peninsula and Mangue Seco, among other places. Maybe you’ll find some useful info there?

Otherwise, to answer your questions: - What do you mean by the Marau Peninsula? If you’re just thinking of Barra Grande, yes, it’s touristy, but the rest of the peninsula is barely visited… and stunning! I love this little corner of Brazil… - Mangue Seco isn’t the easiest to access: transportation isn’t super regular and can be unreliable, but with a bit of time, it’s definitely doable.

In short, if I had to choose between the Marau Peninsula and Mangue Seco, I’d go for the Peninsula without hesitation (but not Barra Grande—I only liked it so-so)… just my personal opinion!

hi there, I know Mangue Seco like the back of my hand—I worked there for a while managing a pousada. It’s a small village of 1,500 people where lots of movies and TV shows have been filmed. You’ll find gigantic dunes and a picturesque little village in northeastern Brazil. ;;;;;; Personally, I’d recommend it—it’s pretty easy to get to. ;;;;;;;;;;;;; Take a bus from Salvador, get off at Pontal, then hop on a small boat for 20 reals that’ll take you across in roughly 10 minutes. ;;; Once you’re in Mangue Seco, check out Pousada O Forte, run by Yves, a Breton guy I worked for. There’s also an excellent restaurant in the village—Frutos do Mar. The locals are really friendly, and the beach is about a 5- to 10-minute walk from your pousada, depending on where you stay. You can take buggy rides through the dunes, and nightlife is pretty quiet except during Brazilian holidays. ;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;; I can send you some photos if you’re interested.

Cheers, Michel michel_rub@hotmail.com

Both are very touristy AND complicated to get to 🚗

The tropical vibe of Salvador

@ivanbahiaguide