How to get from Itacare to Salvador: Avoid this common mistake!
- Rachel
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 20
Traveling from the surf town of Itacare on the coast, to the 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. There isn’t. If you search for this connection and come up empty, you’re not alone.
In this guide, we'll show you how to get from Itacare to Salvador, the mistakes to avoid (do not 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 hassle to your trip. While Ilhéus does have an airport and bus connections, it’s located in the wrong direction and will unnecessarily complicate your route.
Avoid this mistake. Do not go 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 Way: How to get from Itacare to Salvador via Bom Despacho
1. 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 Salvador (tickets & timetable)
Providers: Several regional bus companies operate this route, and tickets can often be booked in advance online or purchased at the Itacaré bus terminal.
Cost: Around R$70-85 depending on the day, time, and season.
Bom Despacho is located on Ilha de Itaparica, directly across the bay from Salvador. The bus stop and ferry terminal are conveniently located next to each other.
2. Ferry from Bom Despacho to Salvador
Destination: Terminal Marítimo de São Joaquim, in central Salvador.
Frequency: Every hour, on the hour
Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour
Cost: R$6.50 on weekdays, R$8 on weekends and holidays. Pay with cash or credit card.
Ferries are large with plenty of seating, have a basic cafe with snacks and drinks, and run throughout the day. It’s a relaxing way to arrive in the city, with views of the Bay of All Saints (Baía de Todos os Santos) as you approach Salvador, especially if you can time your trip to arrive 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, and will be a cheaper overall.
Final Travel Tips
Buy your ferry ticket at the terminal in Bom Despacho. There is no need to book in advance.
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.
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!
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