Blog: 25/12/2025

Getting to Itacaré from Abroad

Getting to Itacaré, a stunning coastal town in Bahia, Brazil, is an adventure that involves a mix of international travel and a scenic local commute. Since Itacaré doesn't have its own airport, your journey will likely follow this three-step process.

Step 1: Fly into Brazil

Most international travelers enter Brazil via one of the major hubs. You will need to book a flight to either São Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG). From there, you will take a domestic flight to the state of Bahia.

Step 2: The Domestic Connection

Your goal is to reach Ilhéus Jorge Amado Airport (IOS), which is the closest airport to Itacaré.

Primary Route: Most domestic flights to Ilhéus depart from São Paulo (GRU or CGH), Rio de Janeiro (GIG or SDU), or the state capital, Salvador (SSA).

Alternative Route: You can fly into Salvador (SSA). While Salvador is a beautiful city to visit, it is much further from Itacaré (about 6 hours by road and ferry) compared to Ilhéus.

Step 3: The Final Leg (Ilhéus to Itacaré)

Once you land in Ilhéus, you are approximately 75 kilometers (46 miles) away from Itacaré. The drive takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes along the BA-001 highway, which is a beautiful eco-road cut through the Atlantic Forest. You have four main options for this final stretch.

Private Transfer: The most convenient and common method. Many hotels and pousadas in Itacaré can arrange a driver to meet you at the airport with a sign.

Rental Car: Available at Ilhéus airport. This is a great choice if you plan on exploring more remote beaches like Itacarezinho or Taipu de Fora during your stay.

Taxi or Uber: Taxis are readily available at the airport exit. For the budget conscious; Uber operates in the area as well, our favorite choice due to trustworthiness and clearness of the system.

Public Bus: The most budget-friendly option. You would need to take a short taxi ride from the airport to the Ilhéus bus station (Rodoviária), where buses to Itacaré depart roughly every hour.

Important Travel Tips

Currency: Itacaré is a small town. While almost everybody accepts debit and credit cards, it is wise to carry some Brazilian Reais (BRL) for the few exceptions.

Timing: Try to land in Ilhéus during daylight hours. The drive to Itacaré is beautiful, but the road is winding and can be dark at night.

Entry Requirements: Check if your nationality requires a Visa or e-Visa to enter Brazil, as regulations can change.

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