Bahia, also known as Salvador, is a Brazilian treat not to be missed. The city is known for its eclectic mix of African and European influences, and makes for an interesting mix of different cultures. You can find something for everyone here. From colonial buildings and beautiful beaches, to great live reggae and pounding samba rhythms, Bahia has plenty to offer any traveling backpacker.
Bahia is situated on the Bahia de Todos os Santos, the largest bay on the Brazilian coast, and is dotted with 38 islands. The city is separated into two parts, the upper (historical) district, and the lower (commercial) district. The point of the peninsula, called the Barra, is where you’ll find most of the residential and beach areas.
If you’re a history buff, you have to see the Centro Historico, which has been declared a national monument as well as a protected UNESCO site. It is an excellent example of colonial architecture and many of the houses in the area have been restored and painted various pastel colors. The area has been returning to its Bohemian roots lately, and there are all sorts of galleries and cafes to explore if you’re so inclined. You’ll find it in the upper district, and the easiest way to reach it is by the Lacerda, a lift that connects the upper and lower parts of the city.
If you’re a beach bum like me, then you’ll be more at home in Barra. Known as much for its nightlife and restaurants as its beautiful beaches, Barra is great for those budget travelers in seek of adventure. You have your pick of any number of beautiful spots, but Flamengo beach comes highly recommended. You can find a particular barraca there run by a friendly Jamaican who will be more than happy to introduce you to one of his country’s greatest exports: rum! At night you can find live music all along the beaches, and you have your pick of spots depending on your tastes. A word to the wise: Barra is considered one of the safest spots in the city, but with tourists come pickpockets, so be sure to lock your valuables up at your hostel and only carry what you need for an evening out.
I know lounging on a beach all day can you feel worthless, so why not try your hand at Capoeira? A martial art that has both African and Brazilian elements and often looks like a dance, Capoeira offers a unique workout that will challenge even the hardiest gym rats. Both Mestre Bimba and Filhos de Bimba are local schools that offer classes for tourists, and are cheap. If you’d rather watch than participate, seek out any public space in the city and you’re bound to find some practitioners. Just remember to ask before snapping photos!
If you’ve always wanted to experience the legendary Carnival celebrations of Brazil you can do no better than Bahia, which hosts the largest Carnival celebration in the world. At any given time during the festival there are an estimated 1.5 million people dancing in the streets! They encourage revelers to join in and it’s certain to be an experience that you’ll never forget.
Lodging is fairly easy to find within the city, especially hostels. MiniHostels offers four different options, and all are excellent. If you plan on coming during high season, January through March, be prepared to have a more difficult time making reservations. And if you plan on coming during Carnival, you will almost certainly need to book months in advance.
