Destinations 
Roadtrip Adventure: 15 Days Exploring Brazil by Car and Bus
Discover the charm of Brazil between history, culture, and wild nature
Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable adventure across Brazil 🌎! Everything begins in the vibrant Salvador, where golden beaches and cultural energy create an intoxicating cocktail of samba and sunshine. Aboard your trusty vehicle or by bus, discover breathtaking landscapes of Chapada Diamantina, where waterfalls blend with winding mountains to offer panoramas worthy of the most beautiful paintings. Follow the road to Porto Seguro, the birthplace of modern Brazil, where history dances on fairy-tale beaches. Glide then through time and space to Ilhéus, a literary city bathed in cocoa and sun. This roadtrip is a travel journal where each page is a new destination, full of surprises and adventures. 🎒✈️ If you're ready to swallow the miles between colonial cities and national parks, your car (or your favorite bus seat) will become your best friend in this Brazilian exploration. Don't forget to taste feijoada and moqueca, delicious dishes that will accompany you on this gastronomic odyssey. Will we see Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing in the streets? Maybe not, but the Brazilians will surely win you over with their legendary friendliness. So, take it slow and let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of Brazil. You will never experience a roadtrip the same way after this Brazilian adventure! 🚗🚌💃
Top 10 Activities
1. Explore Pelourinho in Salvador
Lose yourself in the colorful streets and vibe to the sound of Afro-Brazilian drums.
2. Hiking in Chapada Diamantina
A national park promising breathtaking views and memorable experiences.
3. Party on Porto Seguro's Beaches
Join the celebration on lively beaches while diving into Brazil's history.
4. Visit the Old Town of Ilhéus
Explore the city that inspired famous writer Jorge Amado, between history and cocoa.
5. Cruise on the Rio de Contas
Sail on this majestic river and discover the surrounding wild nature.
6. Tasting Tropical Fruits
Taste the tropical delights at Salvador's central market.
7. Photo Safari in Chapada Diamantina
Capture the wild beauty of this national park with your camera.
8. Capoeira Class on the Beach
Immerse yourself in Brazilian culture with a capoeira class on the warm sand.
9. Exploring Cacao Plantations in Ilhéus
Visit plantations to learn all about the chocolate-making process.
10. Relax at Praia do Espelho
Relax on one of Brazil's most beautiful beaches, a true paradise spot.
Discovering Salvador: Cradle of Brazilian Culture (Day 1 to 4)
Welcome to Salvador, the gateway to our fabulous Brazilian roadtrip! During these four days, you will dive headfirst into an ocean of colors, flavors, and sounds that will make all your senses vibrate. 🌈🎶 Salvador is a bit like an intensive course in Brazilian culture , with a touch of madness and lots of samba. In this city, every street tells a story , every dish is a delicious gastronomic adventure, and every smile is an invitation to dance. You will have all the time to discover Pelourinho, the historic district, with its pastel facades and lively atmosphere. Here, time seems to have stopped, ready to offer you a show of Afro-Brazilian music that resonates in the air. So open your eyes wide and prepare to be amazed, because Salvador has so much to offer that you will surely have to return one day to discover even more! 🍛💃
Activities
Visit Pelourinho
Description: Embark on an exploration of the historic heart of Salvador where colorful buildings with colonial influences hide cultural and artistic gems. Don't miss the impromptu samba concerts on the cobblestone streets.
Price: Free
Address: Pelourinho, Salvador
Elevador Lacerda
Description: Ride this historic elevator to connect the upper city to the lower city, enjoy the panoramic view of the Bay of All Saints. It's an experience as amazing as getting stuck talking politics at a family dinner.
Price: Less than 1€
Address: Praça Tomé de Sousa, Salvador
Tasting at Mercado Modelo
Description: Dive into a medley of local flavors at Salvador's famous market. Savor acarajés (shrimp balls) and moquecas (fish stews), perfect for filling your stomach and your heart with happiness.
Price: 5-20€
Address: Avenida da França, Comércio, Salvador
Restaurants
Restaurante Dona Mariquita
Description: Discover the best of Bahian cuisine in this culinary gem. The seafood platter will make you sing praises with every bite.
Price: 20-50 € per person
Address: Rua do Meio, 178, Salvador
Amado
Description: Treat yourself to a dinner with a sea view at this chic restaurant where sophisticated dishes compete with the breathtaking view. Don't leave without trying the famous bobó de camarão.
Price: 30-70 € per person
Address: Av. Lafayete Coutinho, 660, Salvador
Casa de Tereza
Description: In a charming colonial house, Tereza invites you to a traditional culinary experience where the menu is a tribute to Bahian culture.
Price: 25-60 € per person
Address: Rua Odilon Santos, 45 , Rio Vermelho, Salvador
Accommodations
Fera Palace Hotel
Description: A hotel that fuses luxury and history, perfect for those who want to sleep in a work of art. Relax in the rooftop pool after a long day of sightseeing.
Price: 150-300 € per night
Address: Rua Chile, 20, Salvador
Pousada Colonial
Description: Charming inn offering warm service in a refurbished colonial house. The breakfast includes local delicacies like acarajé, coffee included.
Price: 70-150 € per night
Address: Rua Direita de Santo Antônio , 368, Salvador
Hostel Galeria 13
Description: For budget travelers, this hostel offers comfortable dorms and daily social activities. The perfect opportunity to meet other travelers.
Price: 15-40 € per night
Address: Rua da Ordem Terceira , Salvador
Whether you are history enthusiasts, gourmets of local specialties, or lovers of sunny beaches, Salvador has something to satisfy all your desires. And now, on to the next stage of our Brazilian adventure! Start your engine and continue your exploration with Chapada Diamantina. 🌞🏖️🚗
Natural Exploration at Chapada Diamantina: A Hidden Paradise (Day 5 to 7)
After getting a good dose of culture and samba in Salvador, it's time to lace up your best hiking boots and venture into the wild nature of the Chapada Diamantina region. This national park, located about 414 km from Salvador, proves to be a well-kept secret of Brazil 🌿🗺️. Imagine crossing verdant valleys, climbing majestic mountains, and discovering spectacular waterfalls hidden along the trails. The nature here is not just a backdrop, it's a centerpiece inviting you to explore, feel, and especially preserve it. Adventure seekers won't want to miss this stop where each trail promises new discoveries and each sunset paints the sky with vibrant colors. Armed with your map (or your GPS, because let's be honest, who can still read a map these days?), head into this preserved natural environment. 🏞️✨
Activities
Hiking at Cachoeira da Fumaça
Description: Prepare your cameras to capture the splendor of this impressive waterfall, one of the highest in Brazil. The hike offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Price: Free
Address: Vale do Capão, Palmeiras
Exploring the Caves of Lapa Doce
Description: Enter an enchanting underground world where millennia-old stalactites and stalagmites tell you stories of the earth. A guided tour will reveal their ancient secrets.
Price: 20€
Address: Vila de Iraquara
Climb Morro do Pai Inácio
Description: Climb this iconic rock formation and enjoy an incredible panoramic view. Ideal at sunset so your Instagram becomes the envy of the world.
Price: Free
Address: BR-242, Palmeiras
Restaurants
Culinária Roots
Description: This local restaurant highlights fresh local ingredients while offering a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy local specialties and let your taste buds ask for more!
Price: 10-30 € per person
Address: Rua do Cajueiro, Lençóis
Sabor da Serra
Description: For a meal with a view , head to Sabor da Serra. Its terrace offers an unexpected panorama of the surrounding nature. Try their moqueca for an authentic culinary experience.
Price: 15-40 € per person
Address: Estrada Palmeiras km 3, Chapada
Bodega Gourmet
Description: A delicious fusion cuisine awaits you in this cozy restaurant, where local flavors and international inspirations happily marry.
Price: 20-50 € per person
Address: Rua das Pedras, Lençóis
Accommodations
Pousada Canto No Bosque
Description: Nestled in the heart of nature, this pousada offers a peaceful setting with comfortable chalets where you can recharge after days of exploration.
Price: 60-120 € per night
Address: Rua Canto No Bosque, Lençóis
Hotel de Lençóis
Description: Refined and elegant, this hotel blends comfort and elegance in favor of a lush environment. The pool is a major asset for relaxing at the end of the day.
Price: 100-180 € per night
Address: Rua Altina Alves, Lençóis
Alcino Estalagem
Description: For a more personal experience, Alcino Estalagem offers comfortable rooms with a touch of authenticity, and a homemade breakfast that will put you in a good mood.
Price: 50-100 € per night
Address: Rua Tomba Surrão, Lençóis
Chapada Diamantina is a true playground for nature lovers, filled with natural wonders that make this adventure unforgettable. Prepare to hit the road again, heading to Porto Seguro for a dose of sun, sand, and new Brazilian discoveries. 🚐🌅
Beaches and Heritage of Porto Seguro: The Charm of the Coast (Day 8 to 11)
Get ready to relax and sip cocktails under the bright sun of Porto Seguro, one of Brazil's most captivating seaside destinations. After discovering the natural wonders of Chapada Diamantina, Porto Seguro offers you a well-deserved break with its paradise beaches and rich history. As the landing site of the first Portuguese explorers, this city still breathes history through its cobblestone streets and colonial buildings. Treat yourself to a stroll in Arraial d'Ajuda, where nature meets local crafts and colorful shops. Whether you choose to laze on the beach, dive into the Atlantic, or explore the historic center, each day in Porto Seguro promises a new adventure. Drive along the coast to discover isolated coves and breathtaking viewpoints. Porto Seguro is the promise of a reunion with the sea and a relaxed atmosphere that will make you want to settle there indefinitely. 🏖️😎
Activities
Visit Cidade Histórica
Description: Travel back in time by exploring this historic district. The colorful houses and the maritime museum offer a fascinating insight into Brazil's colonial past.
Price: 10€
Address: Porto Seguro , Bahia
Beach Day at Praia do Espelho
Description: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil, it's the perfect place to sunbathe, swim, or snorkel. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Price: Free
Address: Trancoso, Bahia
Lively Night at Passarela do Álcool
Description: For those wanting to extend the evening , this lively street is lined with bars and restaurants offering local drinks and live music inviting you to dance all night.
Price: 5-20€ for drinks
Address: Avenida Portugal , Porto Seguro
Restaurants
Cabana Malibu
Description: This beachfront restaurant offers a stunning view of the ocean while serving fresh seafood dishes. The grilled fish is a must.
Price: 15-40 € per person
Address: Praia de Taperapuan, Porto Seguro
Rabanete
Description: For a quick but delicious meal, this buffet restaurant offers an amazing variety of fresh and flavorful Brazilian dishes. Perfect before hitting the road again.
Price: 10-25 € per person
Address: Rua do Mucugê, Arraial D'ajuda, Porto Seguro
Uiki Parracho
Description: Offering a mix of international and local cuisine, this restaurant is known for its themed nights and panoramic beach view.
Price: 20-50 € per person
Address: Estrada de Pitinga, Arraial D'ajuda, Porto Seguro
Accommodations
La Torre Resort
Description: An all-inclusive resort ideal for families, with a beautiful pool, activities for children, and comfortable suites.
Price: 200-400 € per night
Address: Avenida Beira Mar, Porto Seguro
Casa Grande São Vicente
Description: Nestled on a hill with a sea view, this charming hotel combines luxury and privacy , perfect for a romantic getaway.
Price: 150-300 € per night
Address: Estrada da Balsa, Trancoso, Porto Seguro
Hostel Casa do Rio
Description: For backpackers, this hostel is a friendly and economical option offering dorms and private rooms, as well as social events.
Price: 20-60 € per night
Address: Rua do Mucugê, Arraial D'ajuda, Porto Seguro
Leaving Porto Seguro, with sand still in your shoes and memories of lively evenings, get ready for the next stage of your Brazilian adventure in Ilhéus, where cocoa and literature meet to create a magical experience. 🍫📚🌊
Literary Adventures and Cocoa in Ilhéus: Hidden Charm (Day 12 to 13)
Welcome to Ilhéus, a city that smells of cocoa and where literature mingles with history to offer an enchanting atmosphere. Known as the fertile ground of Jorge Amado's stories, Ilhéus is a must-visit for culture and gastronomy lovers. Here, amidst the cocoa plantations, each alley hides a story to discover. Stroll through the historic center with its magnificent colonial houses, and take the time to savor a local chocolate bar directly from the producer. Overlooking the ocean, this city has much to offer curious travelers, far from the crowds of large metropolises. You will enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and old-fashioned charm that make it a unique stop on your Brazilian roadtrip. Whether you are passionate about literature or simply looking for a tranquil getaway, Ilhéus welcomes you with a smile and the promise of unforgettable moments. 📚🍫🌴
Activities
Visit Jorge Amado's House
Description: Dive into the universe of the famous Brazilian writer. His house is a journey back in time where the walls seem to whisper the stories of his iconic novels.
Price: 5€
Address: Rua Jorge Amado, Ilhéus
Tour of Cocoa Plantations
Description: Discover the journey of cocoa from bean to your favorite chocolate bar, guided by passionate local producers.
Price: 15€
Address: Rodovia Ilhéus-Itabuna, Km 21 , Ilhéus
Stroll on São Miguel Beach
Description: Enjoy a relaxing walk on this picturesque beach, ideal for an afternoon of relaxation while admiring the sunset.
Price: Free
Address: Praia de São Miguel, Ilhéus
Restaurants
Bataclan
Description: A mythical restaurant that plunges you into the atmosphere of the 1920s with refined dishes. Try their fish moqueca for an authentic experience.
Price: 25-60 € per person
Address: Av. Dois de Julho, Ilhéus
Mar Aberto
Description: This seaside restaurant offers fresh seafood with a splendid view of the ocean. Don't miss their grilled shrimp.
Price: 20-50 € per person
Address: Rua Hermínio Ramos, Praia da Avenida , Ilhéus
Barrakitika
Description: Offering a relaxed and warm atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for an outdoor lunch. Their empanadas are to die for.
Price: 15-40 € per person
Address: Rua do Café , Ilhéus
Accommodations
Hotel Praia do Sol
Description: Located by the sea, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for a paradise awakening.
Price: 100-200 € per night
Address: Rodovia Ilhéus - Olivença, Km 2, Ilhéus
Pousada do Mar
Description: A charming pousada offering authentic Brazilian hospitality with tropical gardens and a refreshing pool.
Price: 50-120 € per night
Address: Av. Lomanto Júnior, Ilhéus
Ilhéus North Hotel
Description: This hotel complex a few steps from the beach offers a tranquil setting to relax after a day of exploration.
Price: 80-160 € per night
Address: Rodovia Ilhéus - Itacaré, Km 31, Ilhéus
After exploring the hidden charms of Ilhéus, recharge your batteries before hitting the road again to return to Salvador, where you can celebrate the end of this breathtaking roadtrip with one last samba dance! 🎶🏁
Return to Salvador: Beautiful Closure of the Adventure (Day 14 to 15)
Here we are concluding our fantastic Brazilian roadtrip where it all began: Salvador. After exploring some of Brazil's natural and cultural wonders, Salvador welcomes you back with open arms. It's time to revisit your favorite spots - this time with the wisdom and memories accumulated throughout your journey. Enjoy these last two days to stock up on memorable moments, maybe discovering that street corner you missed at the beginning or finally savoring that dish that caught your eye. Salvador offers you one last chance to dance under the stars, laze on its beaches, and lose yourself in its bustling markets. And if your feet drag back to the hostel but your heart still beats to the rhythm of Brazil, then you will know that this journey has sown in you the seeds of eternal adventure. 🥳🇧🇷🎉
Activities
Samba Show at Mercado Modelo
Description: For a final flamboyant show, attend an energetic samba demonstration at Salvador's central market. A colorful experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Price: Free
Address: Avenida da França, Comércio, Salvador
Excursion to Itaparica Island
Description: Embark on a day of relaxation on Itaparica Island. Stroll on its idyllic beaches and taste fresh coconut water for a perfect tropical escape.
Price: 20€
Address: Terminal Marítimo de Salvador
Climb Farol da Barra
Description: For a breathtaking view of the city and the ocean, climb to the top of this iconic lighthouse. The perfect spot for a last selfie under the Brazilian sky.
Price: 5€
Address: Largo do Farol da Barra, Salvador
Restaurants
Restaurante Yemanjá
Description: Savor one last time Bahian cuisine in this renowned restaurant, specializing in fresh seafood. Their garlic shrimp are a must-try delight.
Price: 30-70 € per person
Address: Avenida Octávio Mangabeira, Salvador
Du Chef
Description: This hidden gem offers you a refined culinary experience with a modern touch. Perfect for a romantic farewell dinner.
Price: 40-80 € per person
Address: Rua Alexandre Gusmão, Salvador
Solar do Unhão
Description: Located in a charming historic building, this restaurant offers a rich buffet of local specialties. Ideal for tasting a bit of everything before leaving.
Price: 20-50 € per person
Address: Avenida Contorno, Salvador
Accommodations
Hotel Fasano Salvador
Description: For a final night of luxury, this hotel offers stunning views of the Bay of All Saints and first-class services. An unforgettable stay guaranteed.
Price: 250-500 € per night
Address: Praça Castro Alves, Salvador
Monte Pascoal Praia Hotel
Description: Ideally located on Barra beach, this hotel offers excellent value for money with easy access to local attractions.
Price: 100-200 € per night
Address: Avenida Oceânica, Barra, Salvador
Pousada Solar dos Deuses
Description: For a touch of charm and intimacy, this pousada offers tastefully decorated rooms in the historic heart of the city.
Price: 60-150 € per night
Address: Largo Cruzeiro de São Francisco, Salvador
Leaving Salvador, keep the vivid memories of this Brazilian roadtrip in your heart. You have touched the vibrant heart of this country, and Brazil has certainly left its indelible mark on you. Até logo! 🌍✈️🎊
Practical Information
Climate: Brazil has a varied climate, but during your roadtrip, you will mostly be under the tropics with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. 🏝️
Transport: Car rental is ideal for flexibility, but buses between major cities also offer comfort and savings. 🚗🚌
When to go?: Prefer the dry season from May to October to avoid heavy rains, especially in coastal areas. ☀️
Budget: Plan a budget of 2000€ to 3000€ per person for the trip, covering accommodation, transport, and activities. 💶
Practical Tips:
- Learn a few words of Portuguese, locals appreciate the effort. 🇧🇷
- Never leave your belongings unattended, especially on the beaches. 👀
- Protect yourself from the sun with suitable sunscreens. 🧴
- Be respectful of local traditions and cultures. 🙏
- Try to pay in cash in small shops to avoid high card fees. 💳
These practical tips will help you prepare for your trip to Brazil and fully enjoy your adventure across this country rich in culture, history, and magnificent landscapes.
You have now completed an extraordinary exploration of Brazil through this stunning roadtrip, crisscrossed with paradise beaches, historic cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are still swayed by the rhythm of samba or inspired by outdoor adventures, Brazil has offered you a perfect blend of relaxation, wonder, and culture. Return with a suitcase full of incredible memories and a heart ready to plan your next adventure. Até a próxima vez, and never forget that the world is small as long as the soul is big! 🌍❤️🎒
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