Trancoso, Brazil: Immersion in Language, Heritage, and Sustainability

February 21-March 1, 2026 (Spring Break)

FIU in Trancoso, Bahia, is a faculty-led program that immerses students in Luso-Afro-Brazilian cultures through an intersection of academic learning, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability. The program features visits to the Atlantic Forest, Indigenous communities, beaches, and historical sites. Participants engage with Bahian cuisine, music, capoeira, water sports, and cultural events while deepening their Portuguese language skills. Students will also collaborate with local NGOs on community-driven sustainability initiatives and social projects, making this program a transformative experience.

LOCATION DESCRIPTION

Trancoso, located in southern Bahia, is a coastal village known for its pristine beaches, Afro-Brazilian heritage, Indigenous presence, and sustainable tourism initiatives. Once a fishing community, Trancoso is today a hub of cultural exchange where history and ecology intersect. The town is home to the Quadrado (a UNESCO heritage site), vibrant crafts markets, ecological reserves, and strong traditions of Afro-Brazilian music and dance. Its natural beauty and cultural diversity make it an ideal environment for immersive learning.

ITINERARY

From February 22 to March 1, the program offers a carefully balanced itinerary combining cultural immersion, academic engagement, and community experiences. Students begin with their arrival in Trancoso on Sunday, February 22, where they check in and enjoy some free time to settle in. The following day opens with a tour of Trancoso’s historic downtown and a lively capoeira workshop. Over the next several days, participants alternate between Portuguese classes and hands-on workshops, including sustainability projects with local non-profits and an immersive visit to a Native Brazilian community. Excursions expand the experience further: on February 26, students visit Recife de Fora Marine Park, Coroa Vermelha, and Porto Seguro, while February 27 includes the Music in Trancoso project and optional tours. The week concludes with continued language study and sustainability workshops, before wrapping up on Sunday, March 1, with breakfast, checkout, and transfer to Porto Seguro airport. This sequence blends language learning, cultural exploration, and service learning dynamically.

HOUSING

Students will be housed in double rooms in local guesthouses or eco-lodges that promote sustainable tourism. Accommodations include shared rooms, daily breakfast, and selected group meals.

SEMESTER

Spring B

DATES

February 21-March 1, 2026 (Spring Break)

COURSES & CREDITS

Students register for a total of 3 or 5 credits:

• POW 3284 - Brazilian Short Stories Study (3 credits)
• POR 3202 - Accelerated Portuguese I (5 credits)

This program follows an organic, open-architectural approach and will be adjusted to students’ on-site experiences and demands.

PROGRAM COST

The program cost is $1,900.  It includes accommodation, program-related transportation, some meals, some excursions, local tour guide, and International Health Insurance. The program cost does not include the non-refundable Study Abroad Fee ($195), FIU tuition for course credits, Airfare to/from Brazil, some meals, and personal expenses.

Payment Dates

Trancoso, Brazil Program fee - $1,900.00 (see table for deadlines)

Cancellation and/or Refund Policy

$500 deposit is non-refundable

$195 OEA fee is non-refundable

For cancellation policy of FIU tuition and fees, please click here.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

This program involves moderate walking, outdoor activities, and participation in cultural and environmental excursions. Students concerned about the level of physical activity should contact the faculty director of the program.

APPLICATION THROUGH THE OFFICE OF STUDY ABROAD

Office of Study Abroad Online Application

Apply here ->

Deadline October 15, 2025

Non-FIU students must apply to FIU as a Non-Degree seeking student as well.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

• OEA Scholarship
• LACC Study Abroad Scholarship: https://lacc.fiu.edu/academics/funding-opportunities/lacc-study-abroad-scholarship/
• Fund for Education Abroad
• Rupert L. Lyn Capstone Scholarship - Open to Global Learning Medallion students only

We highly encourage students to apply to as many scholarships as they qualify for. Learn about additional scholarships at Funding - Scholarships.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Eugênia Fernandes, Ph.D.  
Faculty Director
Email: eufernan@fiu.edu

Scholarships available. Contact the FIU Office of Study Abroad for more information:
Email: edabroad@fiu.edu    Phone#: 305-348-1913

Note: FIU is not responsible for delays, changes in itinerary, changes in the content and cost of the program or other matters that are beyond their control.