Salvador da Bahia is known as the African Soul of Brazil because of the legacy of the slave trade, and approximately 80% of the population are of Afro-Brazilian descent. These descendants of the West African slaves have preserved their cultural roots manifesting their heritage in martial arts (capoeira), religion (the Afro-Brazilian cult Candomblé), food, music and dance. Carnival in Salvador is the second largest in Brazil, and preferred by many to the Rio de Janeiro carnival because it is less commercialized.
The city is divided into two levels, the Cidade Alta (Upper City) and the Cidade Baixa (the Lower City). Most of the interesting sights are in the Upper City in the Centro Historico. This area is a national monument and is designated as a UNESCO world heritage site with some of the most important examples of colonial architecture in Latin America. You will have a half day guided tour of the city travelling from the Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse), past forts and through traditional neighbourhoods to Pelhourinho in the historic centre. Here you will be able to explore the churches, squares, monuments and historic buildings accompanied by your bilingual guide.
The following day your guide will accompany you on either a days exploration of Praia do Forte (for beach lovers), or Cachoeira (for those more interested in traditional culture and history).
Praia do Forte is located about 50 miles north of Salvador and is popularly referred to as the Brazilian Polynesia and it is easy to imagine why as you explore some of the 9 miles of uninterrupted coconut-tree lined coastline. As well as visiting beautiful beaches and traditional fishing villages there will be an opportunity to visit the Tamar Project for the Protection of Marine Turtles. A delicious seafood lunch is included at one of the local beachside restaurants.
The colonial town of Cachoeira is 70 miles north-west of Salvador and is surrounded by some of the oldest farmland in Brazil. This area is characterised by sugar cane and tobacco plantations, sleepy towns and country markets. During this full day trip you will explore the colonial sites of the city and learn about rural life in this part of Brazil. Lunch at a local farm is included.