Rio de Contas, Itacare Travel Guide

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Discover Rio de Contas, Brazil's first planned city, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and stunning natural landscapes.

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Rio de Contas

Rio de Contas, nestled in the heart of Bahia, Brazil, is a captivating colonial town that stands as a testament to the country's rich history and architectural heritage. Founded in the 18th century, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into Brazil's past with its well-preserved baroque buildings and cobblestone streets.

A brief summary to Rio de Contas

BA-001, Itacaré, Itacaré, State of Bahia, 45530-000, BR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rio de Contas.

Explore the historic center on foot to fully appreciate the colonial architecture.
Visit the Municipal Archives to delve into the town's rich history through old newspapers and documents.
Take a day trip to explore the nearby waterfalls and ecological trails in the Chapada Diamantina region.

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Explore Rio de Contas on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Rio de Contas, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

From Itacaré, buses to larger regional centers like Ilhéus are frequent. From Ilhéus, you can find connecting bus services to Rio de Contas, though these may be less frequent and require some planning. Check with local bus companies like Águia Branca or Cidade Sol for schedules and prices. The bus trip from Ilhéus to Rio de Contas can take approximately 4-5 hours. Bus fare will likely be in the range of R$30-R$50.
Taxi/Car

Alternatively, consider hiring a taxi or private car from Itacaré or Ilhéus for a more direct route to Rio de Contas. A taxi directly from Itacaré to Rio de Contas could cost between R$300-R$500 and take around 3-4 hours. From Ilhéus, a taxi might cost in the range of R$250-R$400. Confirm the price before starting your journey. There are no tolls on BA-001.

Discover more about Rio de Contas

Rio de Contas, located in the state of Bahia, is a historic city considered to be the first planned city in Brazil. Founded in 1723, the townboasts well-preserved colonial architecture, wide streets, and large stone pavements. Situated at an elevation of 1,200 meters (3,900 ft), Rio de Contas serves as a gateway to the stunning Chapada Diamantina region for travelers arriving from the south.The city's origins trace back to the late 17th century when escaped slaves settled in the area. The discovery of gold in the early 18th century led to the town's formal establishment and planning. Today, Rio de Contas is recognized as a national monument, showcasing numerous colonial-period historic structures. These include the Town Hall and Prison, houses on Rua Barão de Macaúbas, the Parish Church of the Blessed Sacrament, and the ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Santana.Visitors to Rio de Contas can explore its rich history by visiting the Municipal Archives, which house old newspapers, photographs, and documents dating back to the 18th century. The São Carlos Theatre stands as a symbol of the city's culture and tradition. The surrounding natural landscape offers opportunities for outdoor activities, with waterfalls and ecological trails to explore.