A half day off-beat excursion in some of the best-preserved natural sanctuaries and authentic cultural secrets of this coastal paradise. This immersive day starts off in Porto de Galinhas, and a pleasant drive through the coastal countryside to “Igrejinha do Outeiro”, one of Brazil’s most ancient chapels, constructed in 1603. Perched on a hilltop, the chapel offers splendid views of the surrounding forest, Maracaípé river and the beaches beyond. This is also the starting point of a 2–3-hour hike, which first heads to a rural “quilombo” ex-slave community and Sr. Antônio’s traditional mandioc flour mill.

After taste of freshly backed “tapiocas” on an open fire at his homestead the hiking trail continues via the old slave trail through Atlantic Coastal Forest to the Maracaípe river. Fringed with mangroves, the trail heads through the mangroves, a fascinating ecosystem full of life.  The mangroves may be partially inundated depending on the tides, but when the tides recede, riverbanks and muddy flats turn playground for a myriad of crabs and other creatures. The “Guaiamum” crab is one of the most famous inhabitants of the mangroves – a local delicacy! After learning how locals catch the crab, the trail continues to another local homestead (Pé no Mangue) along the river, where Guaiamum crab is available for tasting at an extra cost.