Salvador, Bahia, Brazil: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Salvador, Bahia, Brazil? If you're planning to go to Salvador, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Based on the climate and weather in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Salvador, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Salvador, Bahia, Brazil by month

January

In January, Salvador is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Salvador, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Check that you pick the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February here is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Ensure that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Salvador can be sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. It's important that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

Traveling to Salvador in April, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Salvador during May, you might find that it is hot and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to get the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you are traveling to Salvador in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you vacation in Salvador during July, you are likely to see that it is a perfect temperature and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Check that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August is warm and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. It's important that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you visit Salvador during September, you will probably notice that it is extremely warm and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Ensure that you find the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you go to Salvador in October, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Check that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you go to Salvador in November, you will notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Salvador is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Salvador, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Brazil has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Salvador. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and N. Be careful to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Salvador, Bahia, Brazil is a stunning city with a rich cultural heritage and amazing history. It is one of the most popular cities in Brazil for tourists, as it has so much to offer. From its beautiful colonial architecture to its world-renowned cuisine, Salvador, Bahia is truly a paradise for visitors. In this article, we explore some of the top tourist attractions in Salvador, Bahia.

1. Pelourinho

The Pelourinho (also known as the Historic Centre) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous tourist attractions in Salvador, Bahia. The neighbourhood is filled with vibrant colours, intricate architecture, and cobblestone streets. Visitors can see Baroque-style churches, colonial buildings, museums, and galleries. It is the perfect place to get lost in the charm of Salvador, Bahia.

2. Elevador Lacerda

The Elevador Lacerda is one of the iconic symbols of Salvador, Bahia. It is a historic lift that connects the lower city (Cidade Baixa) to the upper city (Cidade Alta). The lift was built in 1873 and is now a popular attraction for tourists. The view from the top is simply amazing, and visitors can see the entire city in front of them.

3. Mercado Modelo

The Mercado Modelo is a must-visit location in Salvador, Bahia. It is a bustling market filled with unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and local cuisine. Visitors can easily spend a few hours browsing through the various stalls and enjoying the vibrant energy in the market.

4. Dique do Tororó

Dique do Tororó is a man-made lake and park located in the heart of Salvador, Bahia. It is famous for its stunning monuments of the orixás, the gods of the African religion of Candomblé. Visitors can have a relaxing picnic, take a boat ride, or enjoy the view of the colourful statues.

5. Farol da Barra

The Farol da Barra is an old lighthouse that has been converted into a museum. It is one of the oldest lighthouses in South America, dating back to 1698. The museum is full of interesting artefacts and information about the history of Salvador, Bahia. Visitors can also climb to the top and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city.

6. Praia do Forte

Praia do Forte is a beautiful coastal town located about an hour's drive from Salvador, Bahia. It is the ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing beach holiday. The beach is one of the most beautiful in Brazil and is perfect for swimming, surfing, or just lazing around in the sun.

Overall, Salvador, Bahia is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in vibrant culture and stunning architecture. These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Salvador, but there are many more waiting to be discovered. Once you visit Salvador, Bahia, you are sure to fall in love with its unique charm and beauty.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Zambales, Philippines, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, Palomino, Colombia, Huntly, Scotland, United Kingdom, Petit Martinique, Grenada, Kigoma, Tanzania, Namwon, South Korea, Bay St.

Louis, Mississippi, United States of America, Aberdaron, Wales, United Kingdom, Delaware Valley, Pennsylvania, United States of America, and Sifnos, Greece.