Bahia
Next stop Bahia, a northeast state of Brazil to Praia do
Forte and Salvador
Just an hour and a half north, Praia do Forte offers a totally different rhythm — breezy, barefoot, and beachy. This eco-friendly beach town is home to warm natural pools, coconut-lined shores, and the beloved Projeto Tamar sea turtle sanctuary. The upscale resorts, nature reserves, and ecological tours, it's the perfect place to relax, swim, or enjoy fresh seafood with your toes in the sand.
Together, Salvador and Praia do Forte are a perfect pair: one buzzing with culture and color, the other a tranquil coastal escape.
There are many flights from São Paulo to Salvador, a 2 hour and half hour duration and to get to Praia do Forte, it is recommended to organize a private transfer, and will take another 1 hour and 15 minute drive.
What to do in Salvador/Praia do Forte:
This destination is a true pick your own adventure type of trip! For those who are looking for all-inclusive resorts with beautiful beaches and pools, we recommend the following:
Iberostar Selection Praia do Forte – a beautiful hotel wrapped in a tropical reserve, this all-inclusive 5-star resort features 5 pools, 6 restaurants, a spa, and a golf course, all with eco-conscious practices. A stay here includes access to the Projeto Tamar Turtle Station and a full suite of activities for kids and adults alike.
Iberostar Waves Bahia – a beach front all-inclusive resorts with 3 pools, 6 restaurants, sports facilities, and evening entertainment, offering something for everyone in the family.
Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte: Although not all-inclusive, the Tivoli offers a beautiful resort with sustainable design in a native natural reserve. The property includes a full spa, an extensive kids’ club, and pool villas.
For those of you wanting to explore Salvador, here is a suggested 3-day itinerary:
Day 1 – Historic & Cultural Core:
Morning:
Pelourinho Walking Tour: Explore the colorful streets of this UNESCO-listed historic center. Highlights include: the São Francisco Church, Largo do Pelourinho, and the Museu Afro-Brasileiro
Grab a fresh cocada (fudge-like candie made with coconut grated and milk) drink lots of coconut water, or try acarajé (black-eyed peas deep fried in palm oil then stuffed with flavorful, and spicy pastes) from a street vendor while out and about!
Afternoon:
Visit the Elevador Lacerda and take in views of the Baía de Todos-os-Santos
Explore the Mercado Modelo for local crafts, capoeira shows, and souvenirs
Lunch at Cuco Bistrô or Casa de Tereza for Bahian specialties with flair.
Evening:
Enjoy a live music performance or Olodum drum rehearsal in Pelourinho
Dine at Odoyá for a relaxed local meal near the action
Day 2 – Coast, Faith & Sunset
Morning:
Visit Igreja do Bonfim, a sacred pilgrimage site filled with colorful wish ribbons, quintessential of Brazil.
Continue to Ribeira and try a scoop of the famous sorvete da Ribeira.
Afternoon:
Head to Barra and visit the Farol da Barra lighthouse and its small nautical museum.
Walk along the beach promenade or take a quick dip in the calm waters.
Lunch at Barravento, a beachfront seafood restaurant
Evening:
Catch the sunset at Farol da Barra, which is one of the best views in Brazil.
End the evening with dinner and drinks at Rio Vermelho neighborhood: bohemian vibes, lively bars, and great seafood. Try Boteco do França or Blue Praia Bar.
Day 3 – Afro-Brazilian Roots & Relaxation:
Morning:
Visit the Museu de Arte da Bahia or Museu Carlos Costa Pinto for colonial and decorative arts
Option: Take a Candomblé cultural tour or percussion workshop
Afternoon:
Lunch at Restaurante Yemanjá for classic moquecas and seafood stews
Relax at Itapuã Beach known for its shallow waters, palm trees, and the famous Vinícius de Moraes statue.
Evening:
Attend a folk dance show like Balé Folclórico da Bahia at Teatro Miguel Santana
End with a quiet dinner in Pelourinho or a rooftop caipirinha overlooking the bay