Overview & Highlights
This holiday focuses on exotic Bahía state in northeast Brazil, with its vibrant, African-inspired culture and cuisine. Explore the colonial port Salvador; then go trekking in the forested tablelands of the interior. Finish at laid-back beach resort of Praia do Forte.
- Walking Tour of Historic Salvador
- Full day tour of Chapada Diamantina National Park, near Lençois
- Full day walking-based excursion to the Valley and Fumaca waterfalls
The state of Bahía has a distinct African culture (the population is largely descended from plantation slaves and is like a country within a country, with its own tradition of music and dance. Here you'll discover not only one of the country's most intriguing cities, but also some of the most beautiful wilderness scenery in the interior, and an example of the glorious beaches for which the state is justly famous.
Fly to Salvador, a tropical melting pot of Afro-Brazilian culture and one of Brazil's finest colonial cities. You’ll have a walking tour of the atmospheric historic core. This multi-coloured Portuguese colonial heart of Brazil’s most exotic city throbs with drum and dance - this is the home of capoeira.
Next, you’ll drive inland to the forested Chapada Diamantina, a national park studded with table-top mountains and run through with crystalline rivers: at its heart is the laid-back little town of Lençois. It is magnificent walking country and you’ll be able to explore its caves, waterfalls and rocky hills.
Bahia's coconut coast is lined with golden beaches backed by lofty palms. Just an hour north of Salvador is Praia do Forte, a low-key and low-rise resort which is also a protected haven for sea turtles. Beyond its car-free main strip, lined with small bars, shops and restaurants, are miles of beaches and natural pools which offer a warm bath at low tide. You have two full days of leisure here: swing in a hammock, fruity cocktail in hand, or dip your toes in the ocean.
Outline itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Salvador. Transfer to hotel in the colonial centre.
Day 2
Half day walking tour of historic Salvador da Bahía.
Day 3
At leisure in Salvador
Day 4
Public coach to Lençois in the Chapada Diamantina
Day 5
Full day tour of Chapada Diamantina
Day 6
Hike to the Fumaça Falls in the Capao Valley.
Day 7
Transfer to Praia do Forte
Days 8-9
At leisure in Praia do Forte
Day 10
Transfer to airport in Salvador for international flight home.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation . Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you’ll relax in utter comfort.
What our clients say
97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.
Very efficient with the booking process and very helpful with his service throughout. Adam was always prompt and helpful in answering all our questions prior to departure.
IR, London
Tailor made holiday
Our specialists have been expertly crafting award-winning tailor-made holidays to Latin America for 40 years. We would be delighted to create a truly personalised trip which perfectly matches your wishes and requirements.

Carrie Gallagher - Travel Consultant
A former JLA tour leader, Carrie brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to our London-based Escorted Groups team.
Inspired by this trip
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
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Your edit for Latin American inspiration
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
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