Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Porto Seguro, Bahia!

Arraial d"Ajuda Eco Park

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day at Arraial d"Ajuda Eco Park

Morning Arrival & Entry: Start your adventure at the vibrant Arraial d"Ajuda Eco Park, one of Brazil"s top water parks, located in the picturesque town of Arraial d"Ajuda, accessible via ferry from Porto Seguro. This paradise offers well-paved pathways ideal for wheelchairs and mobile scooters. Begin at the main entrance, where staff members are available to assist with any special requirements. The park opens at 10:00 AM, but arriving early can help you beat the crowds.

Exploring the Park: Once inside, head straight to the aquatic complex. The park"s layout ensures easy navigation with ramps leading to nearly all attractions. Marvel at the wave pool, which is equipped with an accessible entry point, allowing everyone to enjoy the soothing waves. Don"t miss the live tropical fish aquarium, a serene experience with its wheelchair-friendly viewing areas.

Lunch Break: Around noon, enjoy a meal at the park"s restaurant, which offers a buffet with local and international cuisine. The dining area is spacious with accessible seating arrangements. Post lunch, a rest area nearby with ample shade provides a perfect spot for a brief relaxation.

Afternoon Fun: After recharging, explore the thematic Amazon River ride in the afternoon. This slow-moving water ride mimics the Amazon River"s currents and is accessible, providing a refreshing experience under the Brazilian sun. Be intrigued by the ecological preservation efforts of the park, which include water recycling and the use of solar energy.

Departure: As the day winds down, plan to leave by 5:00 PM. The exit paths are just as accessible as the entrance, ensuring a smooth departure. Before leaving, stop by the gift shop near the exit, which is also accessible and offers unique souvenirs from your visit.

Note: The park is equipped with accessible restrooms and changing facilities throughout. Staff are trained to assist, making your visit both enjoyable and comfortable.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Epic Discovery Memorial (Memorial da Epopeia do Descobrimento)

Why Visit?

Epic Discovery Memorial (Memorial da Epopeia do Descobrimento) Wheelchair-Friendly Tour

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Start your day at the Epic Discovery Memorial, located in the picturesque city of Porto Seguro, where the lush coastal scenery meets rich historical tapestry. The memorial is easily accessible by taxi or a rented accessible van, which you can arrange from your accommodation. Upon arrival, the entrance and primary pathways are wheelchair-friendly, ensuring a smooth glide into the heart of Brazil’s colonial history.

As you explore the expansive grounds of the memorial, marvel at the replica of the ship used by Portuguese explorers, which is visible from a specially designed viewing platform for wheelchair users. Delve into the indoor exhibitions, where ramps and elevators ensure you don’t miss any part of the displays that vividly recount the story of Brazil’s discovery in 1500 by Pedro Álvares Cabral.

Lunch Break: Refresh & Relax

Dine at the on-site café, where you can enjoy traditional Brazilian cuisine with the convenience of accessible dining facilities. The panoramic windows offer a serene view of the surrounding native forest, adding a tranquil backdrop to your meal.

Afternoon: Interactive Workshops & Souvenir Shopping

Post lunch, participate in an accessible workshop where you can learn about traditional Brazilian crafts. The workshops are designed to be inclusive, offering table-height activities that are easily enjoyable from a wheelchair.

Before departing, visit the gift shop which is accessible and offers unique souvenirs such as handcrafted goods made in the workshops. It’s a perfect place to pick a memento that supports local artisans.

Departure

Conclude your visit by late afternoon, ensuring you have plenty of time to return to your accommodation or continue exploring Porto Seguro’s accessible attractions. The Epic Discovery Memorial is not just a journey through Brazil’s epic past but also a testament to the inclusive spirit of its present.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Aquarium Island (Illa dos Aquarius)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Exploration of Illa dos Aquarius

Morning Arrival & Setup

Begin your aquatic adventure by arriving at Illa dos Aquarius" main port, easily accessible by the ADA-compliant ferry service available from the mainland (every 30 minutes). The port offers smooth ramps and elevators for a seamless disembarkation. Head to the Visitor Center where you can rent a state-of-the-art mobile scooter, perfect for navigating the island"s paved pathways.

Aquarium Marvels

First on your itinerary is the renowned Illa dos Aquarius Marine Sanctuary. This spectacular aquarium is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wide, ramped entrances and spacious viewing areas. Get up close to exotic marine life, including the rare blue ribbon eel and the vibrant clownfish, all visible from lowered viewing windows. Engaging touch tanks allow you to feel the textures of starfish and sea cucumbers, accompanied by volunteer guides who offer insights in multiple languages including sign language.

Lunch at The Reef Café

Around noon, roll over to The Reef Café, located within the aquarium. This café offers an accessible dining experience with tables that accommodate wheelchairs and breathtaking views of the underwater dolphin area. Enjoy a local delicacy, the sea bass burger, known for its freshness and flavor.

Afternoon at Botanic Underwater Gardens

Post-lunch, visit the Botanic Underwater Gardens. These uniquely designed underwater greenhouses are accessible via a submersible glass elevator, taking you beneath the surface to explore aquatic plant life from around the world. Pathways inside are broad and flat, ensuring easy navigation for all.

Sunset at Mermaid"s Cove

Conclude your day with a visit to Mermaid’s Cove at the west end of the island. The cove has a specially designed viewing platform that offers unobstructed sunset views over the ocean. Regular performances by trained divers dressed as mermaids are a magical way to end your day.

Departure

Return your scooter at the Visitor Center and catch the evening ferry back, leaving every 30 minutes until late. Each moment at Illa dos Aquarius promises a seamless blend of accessibility and adventure!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.