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Salvador da Bahia
Founded in 1549, Salvador da Bahia was Brazil’s first capital. Its early prominence was fueled by trade in cane sugar and slaves—brought by the millions from Senegal, Nigeria, Angola, and Congo. Their labors built a city of Baroque churches, pastel-hued mansions, cobbled streets, and coastal defenses.
Salvador remains the capital of Afro-Brazilian culture—over 80% of its residents claim African ancestry. The local cuisine, music, and dance are infused with rich African elements. Capoeira, a blend of dance and martial arts set to music, is a well-known example.
Salvador’s historic center, the Pelourinho (Whipping Post), was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. After decades of renovation, the Pelourinho now includes over 800 restored houses, churches, and convents. Arriving in the Pelourinho at dusk, you’d be forgiven for mistaking the city for a movie set. This destination is magical.
The city is flanked by 31 miles of beach, facing either the Atlantic or All Saints Bay. Porto da Barra, at the mouth of the bay, was named among the world’s ten best beaches by the UK’s Guardian newspaper.
North and South of the city, the coastal highway connects dozens of beach towns. Some, such as Morro de Sao Paulo, draw vacationers from around the globe. Others, like Espelho and Boipeba, are better-kept secrets.
What to do in Salvador da Bahia
The coastal scenery and cultural heritage of Salvador make it an exceptional destination for exploration. The island offers a wide range of activities for travelers of all interests. Visitors to Salvador can enjoy:
- Drumming lessons / jam sessions with the Olodum percussionists
- Sailing and island-hopping cruises on the bay
- Cooking classes, market visits, and chef’s table experiences
- Visits to the Samba Museum
- Samba lessons
- Samba and capoeira performances
- Tours of the historic central quarter focused on art, architecture, or history
- Day trips to nearby beaches
- Visits to the Pierre Verger Foundation’s photography collection
- Cultural visits with Candomble devotees
- Afro-Brazilian cultural tours
- Architecture tours
- The Carnival museum, with playful costumes and interactive exhibits
Over the years, we’ve assembled a collection of trusted friends—ambassadors, really—who open the city to our clients, helping them access the city’s leading galleries, studios, workshops, and kitchens.
What is the Weather Like?
March is the warmest month in Salvador, with temperatures reaching into the 90s, although there is little variation in temperature year-round. Nights cool slightly to the mid-70s. Sea breezes moderate the heat and humidity year-round. Although this is one of the sunniest regions of Brazil, rains are abundant from April through September, with May often the wettest month.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport (SSA) lies 12 miles north of Salvador. In addition to a long list of domestic flights, non-stop flights to Miami (eight hours) and other South American hubs are available.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Salvador da Bahia.
How to combine Salvador
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
