Salvador International Airport Transfers (SSA)

Welcome to Salvador da Bahia, the pulsing heart of Afro-Brazilian culture! As you land in this vibrant coastal city, you are preparing to experience a world of rhythmic drum beats, colonial architecture, and stunning beaches. Your journey into the "Capital of Joy" begins at Salvador International Airport (Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães).

This guide from TravelThru navigates Salvador International Airport (SSA) and the city of Salvador. We'll provide a comprehensive airport walkthrough and highlight the most convenient transportation to your hotel or pousada.

SSA Airport Overview

Salvador International Airport (SSA) is the primary gateway to the state of Bahia. It is a modern and efficient hub that has recently undergone significant renovations. The airport features a single, well-integrated terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights seamlessly.

Its unique design features a famous bamboo tunnel on the drive-in, immediately setting the tropical tone. Inside, the layout is intuitive, allowing you to move from the arrival gate through immigration to the baggage claim hall with relative ease.

Salvador Airport Lounge Options

The main lounge provider at Salvador Airport (SSA) is the Ambaar Club, offering spaces for relaxation both before and after security.

• Ambaar Club (Landside): Located in the main terminal before security (pre-boarding). It is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Access is available to Priority Pass holders or for a fee. It offers a quiet space to wait if you arrive at the airport early.

   

• Ambaar Club (Airside): Located in the departures area (after X-ray control), near gates 18-23. This lounge is open 24 hours a day. It is larger and features showers (for a fee), meeting rooms, a kids' area, and a buffet with drinks. It is the perfect spot to relax before a long flight home.

Parking at Salvador Airport

Parking at Salvador International Airport is straightforward, with a large official parking lot located directly in front of the terminal building.

This lot is designed to accommodate both short-term and long-term parking needs.

• Short-term parking: Ideal for drop-offs or pick-ups. The lot is just a short walk from the arrivals hall. Rates typically start around R$12-18 for the first hour.

   

• Long-term parking: If you plan to leave your car for a few days, the same lot serves long-term needs. Daily rates are available, and it is a secure, monitored area.

Payment kiosks are located inside the terminal and near the parking exit.

Hotels near Salvador Airport

An important thing to know is that the SSA airport is located about 28 km (a 45-60 minute drive) from the main tourist areas like Pelourinho or Barra. While there are no hotels directly connected to the terminal, the "Hangar" business district is just 5 minutes away via shuttle or taxi.

• Novotel Salvador Hangar Aeroporto: Located about 1.5 km from the terminal. They offer a complimentary shuttle service (check the schedule upon booking).

   

• Ibis Salvador Aeroporto Hangar: A budget-friendly option in the same complex, also serviced by shuttles.

   

• Gran Hotel Stella Maris: If you prefer a resort experience near the airport rather than a business hotel, this beachfront resort is about a 10-minute drive away.

Transportation Options From/To SSA Airport 

The most important thing to know about your airport transfer to Salvador is that the city is large and traffic bottlenecks are common. The historic center (Pelourinho) is far from the airport, and carrying luggage on public transport or the metro can be cumbersome and less secure for tourists.

TravelThru Transfer Service

Our private chauffeur service is designed to eliminate uncertainty. Once you land, your friendly driver will be right there in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name so you can spot them easily. They'll take care of your bags and personally show you to a comfy, air-conditioned ride.

We offer direct drop-offs right to your hotel door across the city. This includes the vibrant beach district of Barra, the lively nightlife area of Rio Vermelho, and the historic, pedestrian-only streets of Pelourinho (where we utilize the nearest accessible vehicle drop-off point). This seamless, safe private transportation is the most relaxing way to begin your Bahian adventure.

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Metro-shuttle connection: The airport is connected to the "Aeroporto" metro station via a free shuttle bus. From there, you can take the metro to the city center, but you will likely need a taxi for the "last mile" to your hotel. You might want to skip this if you're hauling a lot of bags.

   

• Airport taxis: There are "Special" taxis (Coopmet) with fixed rates and "Common" taxis (metered) available at the curb. Always verify the estimated price before getting in.

   

• Ride-hailing apps: There is a specific designated pick-up point for app rides, which can get crowded and chaotic during peak arrival times.

Things to Do in Salvador, Bahia

• Explore Pelourinho: Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage historic center, famous for its colorful colonial houses, cobblestone streets, and the rhythm of Olodum drummers.

   

• Visit São Francisco Church: Step inside this baroque masterpiece, known as the "Gold Church" for its lavishly gilded interior.

   

• Ride the Elevador Lacerda: For iconic bay views, ride the famous art deco elevator that connects the Upper City (Cidade Alta) with the Lower City (Cidade Baixa).

   

• Tie a Ribbon at Bonfim Church: Visit the Nosso Senhor do Bonfim church and tie a colorful "fitinha" ribbon on the gates for good luck.

   

• Relax at Farol da Barra: Watch the sunset at the Barra Lighthouse, one of the few places in Brazil where you can see the sun set into the ocean.

How to Get Around Salvador

TravelThru Chauffeur Service

While the historic center is best explored on foot, Salvador's other attractions are spread out. Our A-to-B transfer service is at your disposal for a safe, comfortable tour of the city. Spend a fantastic day exploring with your own private car and driver, hitting up spots like:

• Praia do Forte: A stunning beach village with a sea turtle sanctuary (Project Tamar), located about 60-90 minutes north of the airport.

   

• Flamengo & Stella Maris: Beautiful beaches near the airport with excellent beach clubs.

   

• Maritime Terminal: We can transfer you directly to the ferry terminal if you are catching a catamaran to Morro de São Paulo.
   

Other Options

• Taxis & apps: Useful for short hops between neighborhoods like Barra and Rio Vermelho.

   

• Elevator & funicular: Use the Elevador Lacerda or the Plano Inclinado Gonçalves to move between the Upper and Lower city areas quickly.