If you’re traveling to the Chapada Diamantina National Park and planning to visit the beautiful Vale do Capao from Lencois, you’ll need to combine a bus and a minivan or taxi. The journey is relatively straightforward, but it's important to plan ahead due to limited transportation options, especially if you're traveling in the evening.
Step 1: Bus from Lencois to Palmeiras
Your first step is to take a bus from Lençóis to Palmeiras, a nearby town. The bus service between these two towns is operated by Guanabara and runs three times a day. These buses are typically scheduled at 5:20 AM, 2:50 PM, and 7:50 PM, though be prepared for delays as they often run at least 30 minutes late. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs R$15+.
The bus ride is scenic and comfortable. You can buy tickets directly at the bus station in Lençóis or book online through their website. If you miss the afternoon bus, note that the evening bus will limit your options for getting to Vale do Capão the same night.
Step 2: From Palmeiras to Vale do Capão
Once you arrive in Palmeiras, you have several options to reach Vale do Capao. The journey takes about 1 hour along a dirt road, and it’s important to have enough cash for this part of the trip, as many drivers do not accept credit cards. Drivers usually accept cash or PIX, however this option is unavailable to most foreigners.
Minivan from Palmeiras Bus Station: If you arrive in Palmeiras early, the 6 AM minivan from the Palmeiras bus station can take you to Capão for R$25. This is a great option for travelers on the morning bus.
Minivan from Palmeiras Town Center: For those arriving later, there are also minivans that depart from the center of town in front of Lanchonete Paladar (map) for the same price, at the following times:
Monday to Friday: 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM
Saturdays: 12 PM and 5 PM
Shared Car: Another option is to take a shared car, which is often waiting for passengers at the Palmeiras bus station, especially for the morning and afternoon buses. The cost is typically R$25, and the ride is shared with other travelers. This option is usually available if you're on the earlier buses, is not available in the evening.
Taxi: If you arrive late or prefer a private transfer, you can take a taxi from Palmeiras to Vale do Capao. A taxi ride costs R$120 (or R$30 per person if the car is full), but you’ll need to pay for the entire car regardless of the number of passengers. Keep in mind, traveling late at night may increase the fare. Taxis can be more convenient but are a pricier option compared to the minivan or shared car.
Note: There are no ATMs in Vale do Capão, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover your return transport and any expenses while in town.
Find cheap accommodation for your stay in Chapada Diamantina
The Return Trip: How to Get from Vale do Capao to Lencois
Returning to Lençóis from Vale do Capão follows a similar process, but in reverse. Here’s how to make the trip back smoothly.
Step 1: Vale do Capao to Palmeiras
You will need to first get from Vale do Capao to Palmeiras, either by minivan or taxi.
Minivans: Minivans depart from the car park in front of Quinca's Café (map) at the following times:
Daily: 10:30 AM and 8 PM
Monday to Friday: Additional vans at 6:20 AM, 7:20 AM, and 8:20 AM
Saturdays: 6:20 AM
The fare is R$25, and it’s recommended to book in advance to secure a spot. You can do this by visiting the local agency in Capão (map) or via WhatsApp.
Taxi: Taxis are available for R$120 (or R$30 per person if shared). Just like the trip from Palmeiras to Capao, you’ll need to pay for the entire car even if there are fewer passengers. It’s also wise to confirm the fare beforehand and keep in mind that rates may increase for late-night travel.
Step 2: Bus from Palmeiras to Lençóis
Once you arrive in Palmeiras, you can catch a bus back to Lencois. The Guanabara bus runs three times daily, typically scheduled at 7:50 AM, 12:35 PM, and 9:50 PM. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and costs R$15+.
Traveling between Lencois and Vale do Capao may require a bit of coordination, but the journey is well worth it to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Chapada Diamantina region. Just make sure to plan ahead, especially for your connection times, and enjoy the ride through one of Brazil’s most stunning natural areas!
Ready to plan your trip to Chapada Diamantina? See the full Chapada Diamantina Travel Guide, or the 10 Day Trip Ideas for Chapada Diamantina to help plan your dream trip to this magical national park.