Salvador African Heritage Private City Tour Including Afro Museum

Salvador da Bahia , Brazil

Salvador African Heritage Private City Tour Including Afro Museum

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Feel the power of the ancestry that shaped Salvador on this African Heritage City Tour – the most immersive experience for those wishing to understand the Afro-Brazilian roots of Brazil’s first capital. This emotional journey takes you through the city’s most symbolic landmarks of Black resistance and spirituality, including the Barra Lighthouse, the Dique do Tororó with its orixá sculptures, the former slave market at Terminal da França, the historic Sociedade Protetora dos Desvalidos, and the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary of the Black People, ending at the inspiring Casa do Benin Museum/Afro Brazilian museum. Guided by specialists, this tour reveals how African culture transformed Bahia into a land of memory, identity, and pride. A powerful and unmissable experience for travelers seeking to connect with the true roots that shaped Brazil.

Available options

The Tour included tickets

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

The first beach of the city from the Portuguese colonizer's arrival.

Stop 2

This a wonderful stop for a photo, it will take around twenty minutes to explore the area in a walking tour with your personal tour guide. It's not included to go inside of the fort, but, you can use your time for that (tickets not included, you will pay R$12 per person to go in)

Stop 3

Great stop to see the African orixas images and see from outside the Stadium of football.

Stop 4 Pass by

View from below of the world's first urban elevator.
We didn't get on the elevator, nor did we visit the uptown.

Stop 5 Pass by

We will pass in front of the Modelo Market, a central market that sells handicrafts and souvenirs that represent the city of Salvador.
We will not visit the interior of the market. It will be possible to take photos in front.

Cidade Baixa concentrates some points of the historical process of African presence in Bahia and Brazil, such as the former slave market.

Stop 7 Pass by

Walking tour of the old city, explore the historical part of Brazil on cobblestone streets and feel the magic of our history accompanied by our guide with a special explanation.

This is one of those churches of Salvador that one must visit even though they are not of the Catholic religion. Preserving its history linked to slaves, the cult liturgy makes use of music inspired by Candomblé's terreiros, to the sound of atabaques. In the back of the church, there is an old slave cemetery. This church is celebrated every Tuesday a Catholic mass that incorporated some of the elements of African culture, such as singing and dancing.

The House has a collection of about 200 pieces from the Gulf of Benin, collected by French photographer Pierre Verger during his expeditions in Africa.

The afro Brazilian museum, we visit when its open

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

About Salvador da Bahia

Salvador da Bahia, often simply called Salvador, is a vibrant coastal city in northeastern Brazil. Known for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and lively Carnival celebrations, Salvador is a city that captivates visitors with its unique blend of history, music, and natural beauty. The historic Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past, while the lively neighborhoods of Barra and Rio Vermelho provide a taste of its modern, cultural vibrancy.

Top Attractions

Pelourinho

The historic heart of Salvador, Pelourinho is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. It's home to numerous churches, museums, and art galleries, as well as lively bars and restaurants.

Historical Half day to full day Free to enter the area, individual attractions may have fees

Elevador Lacerda

This iconic Art Deco elevator connects the upper and lower parts of Salvador, offering stunning views of the city and the bay. It's a symbol of Salvador and a must-visit attraction.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free to ride

Farol da Barra

This historic lighthouse is one of the oldest in Brazil and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding park is a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Mercado Modelo

This large market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, crafts, and local products. It's located in the historic center and is easily accessible from the Lacerda Elevator.

Shopping 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Praia do Farol da Barra

This beautiful beach is located near the Farol da Barra lighthouse and offers a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean. It's one of the most popular beaches in Salvador and is known for its clear waters and golden sand.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Pelourinho Square

This iconic square is the heart of the Pelourinho district and is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, churches, and museums. It's a great place to soak up the history and culture of Salvador.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moqueca

A traditional Bahian seafood stew made with fish, shrimp, and spices, cooked in coconut milk and palm oil. It's typically served with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and pirão (a thick sauce made from cassava flour and broth).

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy (coconut milk).

Acarajé

Deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters stuffed with spicy shrimp paste, vatapá (a creamy paste made from bread, shrimp, and spices), and sometimes other fillings like heart of palm or caruru (a leafy green vegetable).

Snack Vegetarian if ordered without the shrimp paste filling.

Bobó de Camarão

A creamy coconut sauce made with shrimp, cassava flour, and spices. It's typically served with rice and farofa.

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy (coconut milk).

Coxinha

A popular Brazilian snack made from shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices, rolled in dough and deep-fried. It's typically served with a side of tomato sauce.

Snack Contains chicken and dairy (cream cheese).

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Surfing Kayaking Zip-lining Beach lounging Sunbathing Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season in Salvador, with warm temperatures and high humidity. It's the best time to experience the city's famous Carnival and enjoy the beaches. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

28°C to 32°C 82°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

UTC-3 (Brasília Time, BRT)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Salvador is a vibrant and exciting city, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, can also occur, especially at night and in isolated areas. It's important to be cautious and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Cabify.

Getting there

By air

Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal Rodoviário de Salvador

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Salvador is the primary mode of public transportation. It's affordable and covers most of the city, including the historic center and beach areas. However, buses can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: 99 Taxis, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pelourinho Barra Rio Vermelho Comércio Itaigara

Day trips

Praia do Forte

85 km (53 miles) from Salvador • Full day

This beautiful beach is located about an hour's drive from Salvador and is known for its clear waters, golden sand, and stunning coastline. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean, as well as explore the nearby TAMAR Project, which is dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles.

Morro de São Paulo

150 km (93 miles) from Salvador • Overnight

This beautiful island is located about 3 hours from Salvador and is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back vibe. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean, as well as explore the island's historic sites and natural beauty.

Cachoeira

120 km (75 miles) from Salvador • Full day

This historic town is located about 2 hours from Salvador and is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. It's a great place to explore the region's history and culture, as well as enjoy the town's laid-back vibe and delicious local cuisine.

Festivals

Carnival • February or March (depending on the date of Easter) Lavagem do Bonfim • January Yemanjá Festival • February 2nd

Pro tips

Visit the historic Pelourinho district in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try some local street food, such as acarajé and coxinha, for a taste of Bahian cuisine.
Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and culture from a local expert.
Explore the city's many beaches, such as Praia do Farol da Barra and Praia do Forte, for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Attend a traditional Capoeira performance or candomblé ceremony to experience the city's rich Afro-Brazilian heritage.