Lençóis is nominated by UN Tourism as Tourism Village 2026

Lençóis is nominated to represent Brazil among the World's Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism

Chapada Diamantina gains international prominence with the nomination of Lençóis to the Best Tourism Villages 2026 program, an initiative by UN Tourism that values destinations committed to sustainability, culture, and local community development.

Lençóis, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Bahia, has just achieved important international recognition: the municipality was nominated by the Ministry of Tourism to represent Brazil in the 2026 edition of Best Tourism Villages, a program promoted by UN Tourism that recognizes villages and small towns that stand out for good practices in sustainable tourism.

The nomination puts Lençóis in the spotlight on the global stage and represents a significant achievement not only for the municipality, but for all of Chapada Diamantina. The city is the only representative from Bahia and also the only one from the Northeast among the seven Brazilian destinations selected for this edition.

More than a nomination, this recognition reinforces the importance of a tourism model that values historical heritage, environmental conservation, cultural identity, and the people who make the destination a special place.

What is UN Tourism's Best Tourism Villages program?

Created by UN Tourism, the Best Tourism Villages program aims to recognize destinations that use tourism as a tool for sustainable development, preservation of cultural and natural heritage, and strengthening of local communities.

The initiative considers different criteria, such as environmental sustainability, preservation of traditions, tourism infrastructure, governance, innovation, social inclusion, and the quality of experiences offered to visitors.

For Lençóis, participating in this selection means presenting to the world a history built over generations, marked by the relationship between nature, culture, hospitality, and tourism.

Lençóis: history, nature, and culture in a single destination

Located in the heart of Chapada Diamantina, in Bahia, Lençóis brings together features that make it one of the most special destinations in Brazil.

Its historical center, protected by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN), preserves buildings that date back to the diamond mining period, when the region experienced an important economic cycle.

Today, its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, restaurants, guesthouses, and cultural expressions coexist with exuberant nature, forming a scenery that delights Brazilian and foreign visitors.

The town also serves as one of the main gateways to the Chapada Diamantina National Park, offering access to ecotourism, adventure, contemplation, and experiential tourism.

Sustainable tourism: a commitment to local communities

One of the most important aspects of Lençóis' application is the appreciation of the communities that are part of the region's tourism identity.

In Chapada Diamantina, tourism goes far beyond visiting waterfalls and natural landscapes. It involves local guides, drivers, artisans, family farmers, entrepreneurs, traditional communities, and service providers who find an important source of income in tourism.

Experiences such as tours through Marimbus, led by residents of the quilombola community of Remanso, demonstrate how tourism can contribute to valuing traditional knowledge, strengthening the local economy, and preserving cultural identity.

The conservation of natural resources, respect for traditions, and community participation are essential for tourism development to happen responsibly.

Chapada Diamantina on the international stage

The nomination of Lençóis also represents an opportunity to increase the international visibility of Chapada Diamantina.

Recognized for its mountains, waterfalls, caves, rivers, trails, and breathtaking landscapes, the region attracts travelers interested in authentic experiences, contact with nature, and adventure tourism.

Among the most famous attractions are Morro do Pai Inácio, Fumaça Waterfall, Poço Azul, Poço Encantado, and Vale do Pati, considered one of the most remarkable trek experiences in Brazil.

The presence of Lençóis in this international selection strengthens the positioning of Chapada Diamantina as a reference destination in nature, culture, and sustainability tourism.

When will the result be announced?

The result of the 2026 edition of Best Tourism Villages will be announced in December 2026, during the official UN Tourism ceremony, scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The choice will be made by international experts, based on the technical criteria established by the program, and not by popular vote.

If selected, Lençóis will become part of the international Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism network, gaining an important international seal and new opportunities for promotion, cooperation, and exchange with other tourist destinations around the world.

An achievement for Lençóis and all of Chapada Diamantina

Regardless of the final result, the nomination already represents a milestone for regional tourism.

It is the recognition of a territory built by the strength of its history, the richness of its biodiversity, its cultural diversity, and the work of thousands of people who contribute daily to welcoming visitors.

After all, the true value of Lençóis lies not only in its landscapes, but also in the people, traditions, and experiences that make every visit unforgettable.

Chapada Diamantina has a lot to show to the world. And Lençóis is largely responsible for opening this window to Brazil and international tourism.

Discover Lençóis and experience Chapada Diamantina!

Whether to discover historical heritage, explore waterfalls, hike trails, take car tours, or live the trek experience in Vale do Pati, Lençóis is the ideal starting point for discovering the beauties of Chapada Diamantina.

Discover Chapada invites you to experience this extraordinary destination with experiences that combine nature, culture, adventure, comfort, and safety.

Discover Chapada – Live your essence. Unique experiences in Chapada Diamantina.

Visit: https://discoverchapada.com.br

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