Chapada Diamantina is Portuguese for “Diamond Plateau”, an area of nearly 40,000 km2 (15,500 sq mi), this is a cerrado region with incredible biodiversity elevated mostly above 500 m (1,600 ft). Many regard this as the heart of Bahia state and the dramatic scale of the landscape quickly makes it apparent why. Tabletop mountains formed from the intricate weaving of harder Chapada Diamantina rock with softer Paraguaçu rock, stand tall above steep gorges and valleys. You will likely find no better place in Brazil to hike than here.

Lençóis is the gateway to this incredible region, originally a diamond mining town which helped fuel Europe’s appetite for jewellery. The town still holds on to its unique, traditional architecture and culture, making it a great stop when travelling to this region.

Though usually not seen here, this region is  home to some of South America’s feature large mammals, including jaguars, ocelots and giant anteaters. There are also capuchin and howler monkeys in the dry forests which spread across much of this national park; and armadillos and tapirs, which can be found in more grassy or shrubby areas. Vibrant Lear’s and blue macaws, harpy eagles and hummingbirds also share this national park.

Chapada Diamantina is mainly known for its treks, rock climbing and even cave swimming, with crystal clear waters and enormous stalactites. Many off-road hiking routes can take you to high plateaus with views spanning miles of incredible mountain range, thundering waterfalls or the depths of gorges into which can sometimes be nestled small villages.