Salvador Airport sits about 28 km north of the historic center. Transport costs vary significantly depending on whether you use rideshare, an official taxi, or a pre-booked transfer.
Current Prices in 2026
All prices are in Brazilian Reais (R$). At the time of writing, 1 USD is roughly R$5.
Uber / 99 (rideshare): R$60-100 to Pelourinho or Barra. This is the cheapest car-based option during normal hours. Surge pricing during Carnival, holidays, or rainstorms can push fares to R$150 or more.
Official airport taxi: R$100-160 to the city center. Fares are fixed and displayed on a rate board at the taxi desk in arrivals. You pay at the desk before getting into the car.
Pre-booked private transfer: R$120-180 to central Salvador. The price is locked at booking time. SUVs and minivans for larger groups cost R$160-250.
Airport bus (Onibus Executivo): R$8 per person to the city center. Air-conditioned but slow, taking 60-90 minutes with multiple stops.
Regular city bus: R$4.90 per person. Not recommended for airport arrivals due to crowding and security concerns with luggage.
Costs to Popular Destinations
- Barra / Farol da Barra: R$100-160 by taxi, R$60-90 by Uber (30-40 min)
- Pelourinho / Centro Historico: R$100-160 by taxi, R$70-100 by Uber (30-45 min)
- Rio Vermelho: R$90-140 by taxi, R$55-85 by Uber (25-35 min)
- Itapua (near airport): R$40-70 by taxi, R$25-45 by Uber (10-15 min)
- Praia do Forte: R$180-280 by transfer (50-70 min)
- Costa do Sauipe resorts: R$250-400 by transfer (80-100 min)
When Rideshare Is Not the Best Deal
Uber and 99 are almost always cheaper than taxis for the same route. But during Carnival week, New Year's Eve, and major events, surge pricing can make rideshare more expensive than a pre-booked transfer. If you know your travel dates fall during a major event, booking in advance locks in a fixed price.
For groups of three or more, a single taxi or transfer split among passengers often works out similar to individual bus tickets while being far more convenient.
Hidden Costs
Tolls are included in official taxi fares and most pre-booked transfers. Uber and 99 may add toll charges to your fare. Tips are not expected but appreciated — rounding up or adding R$10-20 for good service is customary. Airport parking, if you are being picked up by someone who parks, costs R$12-20 per hour.