How to get from Itacare to Salvador: Avoid this common mistake!
- Rachel
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 24
Traveling from the surf town of Itacare, to Bahia's capital city of Salvador is easy and should only take you around 6 hours - if you know the correct route!
One of the most common mistakes travelers make is searching for a direct bus between Itacaré and Salvador. But you won't find one, because to arrive in Salvador you need to cross the Bay of All Saints by ferry. If you searched for this bus route and didn't know what to do next, you’re not alone. It's a really common mistake!
In this guide, we'll show you how to get from Itacare to Salvador, the mistakes to avoid (do not try to travel via Ilheus), and how to get from Itacaré to Salvador the fastest and easiest way.
Ready to plan your trip? > Book cheap accommodation in Itacare > Book cheap bus tickets to Itacare > Read my full Itacare nightlife guide
The common mistake: Going through Ilhéus
Many travelers, after failing to find a direct bus, decide to go through Ilheus, thinking it's the next best option. But here’s the problem: this detour adds significant time and expense to your trip. While Ilhéus does have an airport and bus connections, it’s located in the opposite direction and will unnecessarily complicate your route.
Avoid this mistake. Do not travel through Ilhéus. You’ll lose hours in transit that you could’ve spent exploring Salvador or relaxing with a coconut by the sea.
The correct route: How to get from Itacare to Salvador via Bom Despacho
1. Take a Bus from Itacaré to Bom Despacho (BA)
Duration: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
What to Search: Look for bus tickets from Itacaré to Bom Despacho (BA) - not to Salvador (tickets & timetable)
Providers: Two bus companies operate this route: Cidade Sol and Aguia Branca. Tickets can be booked in advance online, or purchased directly at the Itacaré bus terminal.
Cost: Around R$70-85 depending on the day, time, and season. If you purchase at the bus terminal, you can avoid paying the online booking fee. During the high season you should book in advance to make sure you get a seat at your desired time.
Bom Despacho is located on Ilha de Itaparica, directly across the Bay of All Saints from Salvador. The bus stop and ferry terminal are conveniently located next to each other.
2. Take the Ferry from Bom Despacho to Salvador
Destination: Terminal MarÃtimo de São Joaquim, in central Salvador.
Frequency: Every hour, on the hour. The ferry generally does depart on time.
Duration: 45-60 minutes depending on weather & sea conditions
Cost: R$6.90 on weekdays, R$9.20 on weekends and holidays. Pay with cash or credit card at the terminal, tickets cannot be booked in advance.
The ferries are large with plenty of seating, and have a basic cafe with snacks and drinks. It’s a relaxing way to arrive in the city, with views of the Bay of All Saints (BaÃa de Todos os Santos) as you approach Salvador, especially if you can time your trip to be on the water during the sunset.
Why This Route Works
It's the most time-efficient and affordable way to reach Salvador from Itacaré. It avoids unnecessary detours, saving you several hours of travel time. The trip will also be a lot cheaper.
The return trip: How to get from Salvador to Itacare via Bom Despacho
The trip works exactly the same in reverse. Tickets from Bom Despacho to Itacare can be booked in advance online, at the ferry terminal in Salvador, or at the bus terminal in Bom Despacho. Note that the bus waits for the ferry to arrive - it won't leave without you if the ferry runs late!
Final Travel Tips
Book your ticket in high season: If you are travelling in high season, do book your bus ticket in advance, either online or by visiting the bus terminal.
Plan your timing: Try to catch a morning bus to Bom Despacho so you arrive with daylight left for the ferry crossing. Don't miss the last bus departing Itacare at 3pm.
Be quick: The ferry leaves on the hour - so if your bus arrives close to the ferry departure time, go straight to the ferry quickly so you don't have to wait an hour for the next one. The ferry does not wait for the bus to arrive.
The bus will wait for you: If you are travelling in the reverse direction (Salvador to Itacare), the bus does wait for the ferry to arrive, so there's no need to stress if it's a little delayed.
More resources for planning your trip
Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. For more information on traveling by bus, read my full guide to taking long-distance busses in Brazil.
Book your accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there's something for everyone
Don't forget to read my packing check-list for Brazil
Finally, read this post to find out 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil!