3 Best Sights in Salvador and the Bahia Coast, Brazil

A 15-minute hike takes you down to the mouth of the Lapa Doce cave, where you will see a stunning collection of large stalagmites, stalactites, and columns. Access is only possible with a local guide, included in the price of admission along with a flashlight for navigating in the dark and exploring the unique frescoe-like coloring and natural sculptures. Local guides only speak Portuguese, so if you are looking for greater insight, plan to go with your own guide as part of a longer day experience. Because it's so accessible, Lapa Doce is especially recommended for children.

Established in 1985, the 1,520-square-km (593-square-mile) national park is one of the most scenic places in Brazil. Here you can find crystal clear creeks, rivers with abundant rapids and waterfalls, and more than 70 grottos and caverns. There are also the tall peaks of the Sincorá Range; the highest point is Barbados Peak (2,080 meters/7,000 feet). The flora and fauna of the area, which include many varieties of cactus, orchids, and bromeliads, and more than 200 bird species, have been the subject of two extensive studies by the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew in England. The best time to visit the park is in the dry season, from March to October, but expect high temperatures during the day (rarely above 36°C/100°F). From May to July, temperatures might drop to near 10°C (45°F). The park does not have a visitor center, but there's a small ranger headquarters in the town of Palmeiras.

Brazil's seventh-largest cave and one of its most complete is called "Little Tower" after the rock formation outside its entrance. Here you can find a diverse collection of cave formations; besides the usual stalactites and stalagmites, aragonite flowers, clusters of helectites, and chandeliers abound. Three different guided tours ranging from 1 to 2½ hours explore different sections of the cave. Torrinha is recommendeded for those with a particular interest in caves. For an introductory experience, Lapa Doce is the more accessible option.