 |
 |
NATURE |
 |
|
In the tropical paradise of Praia do Forte the visitor blends with an environment of exhilarating and surprising nature.There are plenty of tourist and natural attractions here, which provide the visitors with days full of emotion and adventure.Natural PoolsIn the low tide, amidst the coral reefs, one can find huge natural pools of transparent waters with mild temperatures where snorkeling is inevitable. Diving in this area feels like being inside an aquarium, due to the diversity and amount of fishes, mollusks, crustaceous, plants, and corals that are found here.Tamar ProjectThe National headquarters of the Tamar-Ibama Project is located at Praia do Forte. This Project has been working for 25 years on the research, protection and handling of the five marine turtles’ species that can be found in Brazil – they are all endangered species. The north coast is one of the main areas where these animals lay their eggs, what takes place between September and March.Tamar Project was created in 1980, and it is internationally renowned as one of the most successful experiences of marine conservation. The social-environmental work developed with the communities situated in its working areas is a model for other countries. Tanks with turtles found in the Brazilian coast enchant the tourists. The Visitors Center works as a nucleus of research and broadcasting of the marine life, environmental education, and leisure and services areas. It is equipped with tanks, aquariums, information panels, Bel-art replica of a marine turtle in its natural size; spaces for exhibitions, talks, video shows; a restaurant, a bar and a shop for the sale of Tamar trade products and local handicraft. Humpback Whale InstituteSince 1988, the whales that arrived at the warm waters of Bahia coast have been monitored by the Humpback Whale Institute.Every year, around three thousand whales migrate to reproduce and feed their babies, repopulating a region from where, in the past, they were almost totally dissipated due to their commercialization. The increase on the number of whales seen from the north shore of Bahia allowed the Humpback Whale Institute, along with tourism companies of the area, to introduce whale-watching in the region. It is one of the eco-tourism activities that grow the most nowadays. It allows the tourists to get in contact with the animals in their natural habitat. The best time for whale-watching is between July and November. At Praia do Forte, CENTROTOUR (www.prdoforte.com.br (71) 3676-1091 and 8802-8156) is the Institute’s partner, and part of the resources collected goes to the conservation work of the Humpback whales. You can buy a boat ride directly from the operator, and the Institute is responsible for the technical support, giving talks and guiding the visitors, before boarding. |
