Dive deep into Bahia’s soul! Start with those postcard dunes and turquoise waves in Porto de Galinhas, then fly up to Salvador for colorful Pelourinho streets, capoeira kicks in historic squares, and flavors that make your taste buds dance. Small groups, max 10 people, local experts who grew up here, no tourist traps, just real Brazil.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Land in Recife - Straight to Paradise
Touch down in Recife, quick 1-hour transfer south to Porto de Galinhas. Hotel right on the beach, check in, toss the bags, walk barefoot to the natural pools at low tide, fish swimming around your ankles. Welcome dinner with fresh lobster and cold beer, guide tells us about tomorrow’s dune buggy ride. Hotel: Beachfront boutique with hammocks.

Day 2: Dune Buggy & Jangada Sail
Morning dune buggy blast across white sands, stop at hidden coves only locals know. Lunch at a fisherman’s shack, moqueca simmering in clay pots. Afternoon, hop on a jangada (traditional sail raft), glide over reefs, snorkel with sea turtles. Sunset back on the main beach, caipirinha in hand. Dinner on your own, try tapioca stands.

Day 3: Porto Relax & Optional Dive
Free morning, surf lesson if you want, or just float in the warm pools. Lunch included at beach club. Afternoon optional scuba at shipwrecks (extra $120). Evening cooking class, make acarajé with a Baiana chef, eat what you fry!

Day 4: Drive to Itacaré - Jungle Meets Ocean
Scenic 4-hour drive south along the Coconut Coast, stop at Praia do Espelho for photos. Arrive Itacaré, eco-lodge tucked in Atlantic rainforest. Short hike to waterfall, swim in cool pools. Dinner at lodge, hearts of palm salad, grilled fish.

Day 5: Itacaré Trails & Beaches
Full day exploring, hike easy trail to Prainha (secret beach), then kayak calm rivers, spot monkeys. Picnic lunch under almond trees. Afternoon free, maybe zip-line or just nap in a hammock. Group dinner with live forró music, try your steps!

Day 6: Fly to Salvador - Pelourinho Magic
Morning transfer to Ilhéus airport, 1-hour flight to Salvador. Land, dive right into Pelourinho, those colorful colonial buildings glowing. Walking tour with historian guide, hear about Candomblé roots, slave history, rebirth. Hotel in the heart of it all. Evening, street percussion show, join if you dare.

Day 7: Capoeira & Market Day
Morning capoeira workshop in a real roda, learn basic moves, no experience needed, just rhythm. Lunch at local market, sample vatapá, dendê shrimp. Afternoon free, wander Largo do Pelourinho, buy lace from Baiana ladies. Optional Candomblé ceremony visit (respectful, guided).

Day 8: Day Trip to Cachoeira - Afro-Brazilian Heartland
1.5-hour drive inland to Cachoeira, UNESCO sister city. Walk tobacco warehouses turned art spaces, visit Irmandade da Boa Morte sisterhood house, powerful women preserving tradition. Riverfront lunch, smoked fish stew. Back to Salvador by dusk, tired but full of stories.

Day 9: Salvador Finale - Art & Elevador
Morning street art hunt, murals telling resistance tales. Ride the Lacerda Elevator for bay views, coffee at the top. Afternoon cooking finalé, make moqueca from scratch, eat with the group. Farewell dinner on rooftop, live samba, toast to Bahia!

Day 10: Fly Home or Extend
Morning transfer to Salvador airport. Want more? Add Praia do Forte extension, sea turtles and castles. Safe travels, axé!