The region of Itacaré has rich dense forests with one one the highest bio-diversity of the planet. Thanks to the cocoa culture, the forest was preserved. The cocoa tree is a short tree which has to be cultivated in the shade, so, for economic reasons, man had to preserve the forest, which was not the case in the rest of the state, where deforesting has provoked climatic changes and the disappearance of rivers.

Itacaré's luck may not last in the preservation of the forest. The cocoa culture is being abandoned due to the declining international prices and a plague called Vassora de Bruxa, which is devastating plantations and changing the natural balance of the region. The forest has now a stronger value, providing noble wood rather than the environment of a decadent culture.

The deforesting has already left serious wounds in the green of Itacaré. Fortunately, most of the forest is now a protected area. Cutting trees is now forbiden by Law, but there are still people extracting wood illegaly. They take advantage of the growing demand for wood and the increasingly high prices. It's still a long way from the total destruction of the forest, but it is necessary to halt on the tendency itself.

Ecotourism is a solution to invert the process and bring income to the region, giving value to the conservation of the forest. There are many attractions for those who respect nature and like to walk: discover rich vegetation and wildlife, and enjoy the pure water of the many rivers and waterfalls.