Explore the Colonial Towns & Beautiful Beaches of Brazils Northeast Coast
Begin your holiday in the heart of Salvador’s historic old town, where cobbled streets wind between colourful colonial buildings, lively shops and traditional restaurants. It’s a vibrant introduction to Bahia’s rich cultural heritage, shaped by Afro Brazilian traditions, music and cuisine.
Collect your car and set off along Brazil’s northeast coast, travelling first to Praia do Forte, home to long stretches of golden sand and calm, clear waters. After time to relax by the sea, continue north to the colonial town of Aracaju before following the coast to Porto de Galinhas, a region known for its warm waters, palm fringed beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Your journey concludes in Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage town celebrated for its pastel coloured houses, hilltop views and historic churches. Spend time exploring its narrow lanes before visiting the nearby city of Recife, where modern culture and historic neighbourhoods sit side by side. Blending scenic driving with beach time and cultural discovery, this self drive itinerary offers a rewarding way to experience Brazil’s northeast coast at your own pace.
Head out on the open road along the Brazilian coastline
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
12 breakfasts
Car Hire
What you'll experience
- Discover the vibrant historic old town of Salvador: Wander through cobbled streets, colourful colonial buildings and lively squares shaped by Afro Brazilian culture.
- Head out on the open road with the freedom of your own car: Enjoy a flexible self drive journey along Brazil’s northeast coast, stopping whenever something catches your eye.
- Discover the beaches of Praia do Forte: Relax on long stretches of golden sand and swim in calm waters in one of Bahia’s most appealing coastal spots.
- Explore the colonial town of Aracaju: Take time to discover its relaxed atmosphere, historic centre and seafront setting.
- Finish in the historic town of Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore pastel coloured houses, hilltop churches and winding lanes overlooking the nearby city of Recife.
What's Included
International flights
12 nights’ accommodation as detailed
12 breakfasts
Transfers and tours as per itinerary
10days car hire
Full cover insurance
One-way drop off fee
Prices from £4,199 pp*
Excludes:
Meals not indicated in your itinerary
Local departure taxes payable locally
Where applicable locally payable car hire-related charges
Fuel
Quick Itinerary
Northeast Self Drive 17-Day Itinerary
Days 1 - 3 UK - Salvador
After your flight from the UK, you'll arrive in Salvador to enjoy two nights in the heart of the Pelourinho district which is the charming historic district of the city.
You will have a day at leisure to explore the old town of Salvador with its colourful colonial houses, abundant churches and cobbled streets lined with charming bars. Be sure to ride the beautiful art deco Elavador Lacerda which connects the upper city to the harbour for great views out to sea.
Days 4 - 7 Praia do Forte
You will be transferred to the car hire office where you will pick up your vehicle for the next 12 days. A Fiat Doblo (or similar) including air conditioning and standard insurance is included but you may choose to upgrade to something sportier for your upcoming journey to Recife.
The first drive is just 2 hours to Praia do Forte where you will stay 4 nights near the beach. Enjoy three days at leisure to explore some of the stunning beaches that make up the coastline around Praia do Forte. Alternatively, you may decide not to do very much at all!
Days 8 - 9 Aracaju
The drive from Praia do Forte to Aracaju will take around 4 hours but longer if you choose to stop and do some exploring along the way. Aracaju is a small colonial town with charm and you will stay at a hotel near to the centre of town.
With a day at leisure, you may decide to relax by the pool of the hotel, explore the town or venture to some of the great beaches along the coastline.
Days 10 - 11 Porto de Galinhas
The drive from Aracaju to Porto de Galinhas is the longest one of the trip and will take around 7 hours. We recommend an early start and taking your time to enjoy the great scenery. You may decide to stop in the towns of Penedo or Maceio along the way. Upon arrival at Porto de Galinhas, you will stay at a hotel for four nights.
Enjoy 1 night at leisure in the area where you would be forgiven for just relaxing by the pool or on the beach sipping ice-cold cocktails! If you are feeling more adventurous you can explore more of this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Days 12- 15 Olinda (Recife) - UK
The final drive from Porto de Galinhas to Olinda takes just two hours. Olinda is one of the most beautiful historic towns in Brazil. So much so it has become a UNESCO World Heritage site.
On your last day, it is well worth exploring Olinda but the nearby city of Recife is also worth looking around. In almost complete contrast Recife is a vibrant, modern city on the coast and very popular as a holiday spot for Brazilians. It is an easy drive between the two.
You will drive back to Recife airport where you will drop off the car before taking your onward flight.
Speak to a Brazil Holiday Specialist
All our Brazil itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Northeast Self Drive holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
Every journey we plan is truly individual – created just for you, by our expert team. Whether you’re dreaming of wildlife, culture, food or landscapes, 5* luxury or off-grid adventure, we’ll design a Latin American holiday that’s truly unforgettable for all the right reasons.
We’re recognised by both the industry and our clients for our outstanding personalised service.
We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.
Every recommendation is shaped by real experience, true passion and specialist care.
Consistently rated ‘Excellent’ by our clients for our expert planning and personalised attention.
