A visit to Salvador is a chance to step back in time, to stroll through a perfectly preserved city from the 16th and 17th centuries. It's a chance to experience Brazil's close connection to Africa to taste this connection in the food, hear it in the music, see it in the faces of the people. All of these elements -- architecture, food and music - mix together in Pelourinho, the restored colonial heart of the city of Salvador.

Salvador, the capital city of the state of Bahia, is a unique place where a magical air intermingles with reality to form a unique harmony. It begins with religious syncretism and continues to its striking setting of narrow streets and steep hills, forming the upper and lower city, which is connected by the famous Lacerda Elevator that carries passengers in four cabins.

In Salvador, the sun shines almost year-round, but beneath the surface beauty of beaches and the island-studded Baía de Todos os Santos (Bay of All Saints), there's a deep and powerful culture - one that bubbles up in the areas rich cuisine and in the infectious and ever-changing rhythms of Bahian music.

While Salvadorans have been rediscovering their city, Brazil and the rest of the world have been rediscovering Salvador. Money has been pouring into things like a new airport and new roads, while funds have also been made available to restore the Pelourinho neighborhood - the 16th-century heart of what was once the richest city on the Atlantic coast. The region has a perfect warm climate, rich African folklore, and a fertile environment. The people of Salvador create a place so special with their love of spontaneity, joy, and beauty. The beaches and islands facing the city, together with its festive atmosphere, form an ideal travel destination.

Beyond Salvador, a trip to Bahia is a chance to stock up on two of Brazil's greatest non-exportable products - sand and sunshine. The beaches of Bahia are some of Brazil's most varied and beautiful. They come blessed by sunshine, lapped by a warm southern ocean, and infused with a laid-back spirit that is uniquely Bahian.

1- Arrival in Salvador
Meet and greet at the airport in Salvador and arrival transfer to your hotel. Your room will be ready by noontime, if you prefer we can also arrange you an early check-in (at a surcharge) and you will have your room ready upon arrival, so you can freshen up and rest before exploring Salvador.

2- Salvador
Half Day City Tour through historical Salvador with guide, visiting the Mercado Modelo (Local Market) and the Pelourinho district, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. You will also visit Praca da Sé, the oldest part of the city, with its old Sé church. Then on to Terreiro de Jesus, the main square. Dominating the west end of the square is the 17th -century Cathedral Basilica. The sheer size of the church is impressive, particularly compared to so many of the smaller churches in Pelourinho. The image of Christ the Savior above the transept is the largest wood sculpture in Brazil. Its like much of the carving work in the church, was likely the work of trained slaves; look closely at some of the altars and you'll notice symbols of the Candomblé religion such as small fishtails, a tribute to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea. You may change the date of this tour at your convenience.

3- Salvador
At leisure in Salvador. As an optional tour, spend a day cruising on the Bay of All Saints, with stops at 2 of the islands or enjoy an evening watching the folklore show at Solar do Unhão, an 18th century colonial complex.

4- Depart Salvador - Next City
Check-out at noon. Transfer to the airport in Salvador. Homebound flight or proceed to your next destination.

Land-Only prices in US-Dollars per person in double occupancy (single supplement available), including:

• Private roundtrip transfer Airport SSA in Salvador/Hotel/Airport SSA in Salvador featuring air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking guide.

• Half Day City Tour through historical Salvador (private, approximately 4 hours) with English speaking guide.

• Accommodation in the hotel/pousada of your choice.

• Daily Brazilian buffet breakfast, unless indicated above.

• Meals as per description (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner).

• Hotel taxes.

-> Additional for Russian speaking guide = US$ 0 per person.

-> To reduce or extend number of nights in this package, simply click on the hotel of your choice and check the desired period.

To receive more information, please email us at office@opcotours.com.