Salvador is known for its beautiful, old churches

Since our bus to Chapada Diamantina National Park didn't leave until the afternoon, Erica and I had the morning free to explore Salvador in the light of day.  Even though we were right in the thick of rainy season, we lucked out and had great weather while we schlepped our packs around to various touristy spots in the Pelorinho.



Once again I was impressed at how nice and friendly the locals were.  I had been warned over and over again about the dangers of Salvador so much that I had begun to become suspicious of anyone trying to help me while there.  But with each interaction such as with the lady selling water who gave me a blessing as I left, the city garbage guy who helped me find the right bus etc. I just ended up feeling guilty that I had suspected anything in the first place.

Elevador Lacerda

After about a 45 minute ride to the huge bus station, Erica and I lined up to buy our bus tickets to Lençois and then boarded our bus for another 7 hour ride.  Back-to-back uncomfortable and long bus rides are a lot to ask of someone who's barely gotten off the plane and is in a new place, but Erica toughed it out.  After riding through an incredible pink sunset, we pulled into the small little city of Lençois at about 8pm.

One of the government buildings

A look out over the harbor and at the Mercado Modelo

We had booked a 5 day package with Hosteling International that included lodging and daily guided hikes (you have to go with a guide anywhere you go in the park) and were more than ready for hot showers and bed when we made it to the hostel.  The lady in charge informed us that we would have to be ready to be picked up at 8am the next morning and to be prepared for an intense day.  Like I said, the trip with Erica was go go go!

Getting coconuts before our bus trip

Sunset from the bus windows

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