Bahia Blends: Where Nigeria Meets Brazil with Folasade Ogunmokun

-Arriving in Salvador, you’ll immediately step into the soul of Afro-Brazilian heritage with a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed Pelourinho district. Marvel at the baroque architecture of the Cathedral, then journey through the Afro-Brazilian Museum, where Yoruba deities and sacred art reveal the city’s Nigerian roots.

-A hands-on percussion workshop with Mestre Macambira brings the rhythms of Bahia to life, while the Rosário dos Pretos Church – built by and for enslaved Africans – stands as a testament to faith and resilience.

-The evening is yours to soak in the city’s vibrant energy.

-Begin the day exploring the Pierre Verger Foundation, honoring the French-Brazilian photographer whose work captured the deep ties between Nigeria and Bahia.

-At São Joaquim Market, immerse yourself in a sensory feast of spices, crafts, and daily life, reflecting Salvador’s diverse African heritage.

-Visits to Casa de Yemanjá and Casa de Oxumarê introduce you to the powerful orishas (deities) of Candomblé, revealing how Nigerian spiritual traditions thrive in Brazil.

-In the evening, experience a dazzling folkloric show at Teatro Miguel Santana, followed by dinner – a celebration of Bahia’s living culture. Dig into it all!

-Venture into Recôncavo Baiano, the cradle of Afro-Brazilian culture.

-In Santo Amaro and Cachoeira, discover towns where the legacy of enslaved Africans shaped music, religion, and resistance.

-The day’s highlight is a traditional Bahian lunch at Fazenda Santa Cruz, where flavors tell stories of migration and adaptation.

-After a day steeped in history and hospitality, return to Salvador for a free evening.

-Today’s journey weaves together Salvador’s sacred and commercial heritage. Visit the iconic Bonfim Church, a pilgrimage site blending Catholic and Candomblé traditions, and Monte Serrat, where panoramic views reveal the city’s layered history.

-At Mercado Modelo, browse stalls bursting with crafts and artifacts, perfect for those seeking a tangible piece of Bahia’s Black culture.

-The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace.

-Experience the transformative power of music at the Pracatum Social Project in Candeal, a neighborhood revitalized by Grammy-winning musician Carlinhos Brown. Participate in a musical workshop that showcases how drumming and song empower youth and preserve heritage.

-The evening culminates with dinner at Casa de Tereza, a renowned restaurant where Bahian cuisine becomes a sensory journey through Africa and Brazil. Cheers to an epic adventure in Salvador!

-After breakfast and checkout, a group transfer brings your journey to a close. Carry home the rhythms, stories, and connections forged in Salvador – a city where Nigerian and Black cultures are not just remembered, but lived every day. Safe travels!