Natividade Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Natividade, Tocantins, Brazil, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Natividade

Natividade is a charming small town tucked away in the heart of Tocantins state, Brazil. This hidden gem is known for its rich history and culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Whether you are looking to explore museums and historical sites, embark on exciting outdoor adventures, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Natividade has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and how to get around Natividade.

List of Places to Visit in Natividade

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museu Histórico Municipal Osório Peixoto: Located in the heart of the town, this museum is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that showcase the rich history and culture of Natividade.
  • Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Natividade: This magnificent church, built in the colonial style, is one of the oldest and most important landmarks of the town.
  • Casa de Câmara e Cadeia: This historic building served as the seat of the local government and prison during the colonial era.

Natural Attractions of Natividade: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra do Carmo: This breathtaking mountain range is home to several hiking trails, waterfalls, and caverns, offering an ideal setting for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Lagoa da Confusão: This beautiful lagoon, located just a few kilometers away from Natividade, is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and fishing.
  • Parque Estadual do Jalapão: This vast protected area, spanning over 34,000 hectares, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and it is known for its impressive sand dunes, natural pools, and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Natividade

  • Trilha da Pedra do Macaco: This 4-kilometer hiking trail takes you through the lush forests of Serra do Carmo, leading to the top of the Macaco rock formation, which offers magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Circuito do Lagoa do Peixe: This 10-kilometer mountain biking trail takes you through the scenic countryside and along the shores of Lagoa do Peixe, providing an opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Natividade: Activities and Tours

  • Cachaça Tiquara Factory Tour: Take a tour of this traditional distillery to learn about the process of making cachaça, one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in Brazil, and indulge in some tastings.
  • Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the scenic waterways of Tocantins River and its tributaries by canoe or kayak.
  • Horseback Riding: Discover the beauty of the countryside on horseback, and visit local farms and villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Natividade

Day Activities
1 Visit Museu Histórico Municipal Osório Peixoto, Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Natividade, and Casa de Câmara e Cadeia.
2 Explore the Serra do Carmo mountain range and visit the waterfalls and caverns.
3 Take a day trip to the Lagoa da Confusão and enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
4 Visit the Parque Estadual do Jalapão and explore the sand dunes, natural pools, and waterfalls.
5 Take a tour of the Cachaça Tiquara Factory and indulge in some tastings.
6 Go canoeing/kayaking and/or horseback riding.
7 Relax and unwind in the town, enjoying the local cuisine and hospitality.

Food and Drink Scene of Natividade

Must-Try Dishes

  • Galinhada: This traditional chicken and rice dish is a staple of the local cuisine, and it is often served during festivals and celebrations.
  • Pequi: This fruit, which is native to the Brazilian Cerrado, is often used in local dishes, particularly in stews and rice dishes.
  • Empadão: This savory pie, filled with meat, vegetables, and cheese, is a popular snack in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: This strong alcoholic drink, made from sugarcane, is one of the most popular beverages in Brazil, and it is often used in cocktails and desserts.
  • Guaraná: This fizzy drink, made from the guarana berry, is a favorite of the locals and is known for its energizing properties.

Where to Stay in Natividade: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Pousada Colonial: This charming guesthouse, located in the historic district of the town, offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and friendly hospitality.
  • Hotel do Bosque: This cozy hotel, located in a lush forest setting, offers well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving traditional cuisine.
  • Hostel do Leandro: This budget-friendly hostel, located in the town center, offers dormitory and private rooms, and a shared kitchen and lounge area.

What to Buy in Natividade: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts: The local artisans specialize in making beautiful pottery, woven baskets, and leather goods, which make for unique and authentic souvenirs.
  • Cachaça: Bring home a bottle of the locally-produced cachaça, which comes in a range of flavors and varieties.
  • Pequi Oil: This oil, extracted from the pequi fruit, is used in cooking and cosmetics, and it is a popular souvenir among visitors.

Local Culture and Customs of Natividade

The locals of Natividade are known for their warmth, hospitality, and deep-rooted traditions. It is common to greet people with a smile and a handshake, and to engage in friendly conversation. The town is home to several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including the Festa da Padroeira, which celebrates the town’s patron saint, and the Festival Gastronômico, which showcases the best of the local cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Natividade

The best time to visit Natividade is from June to September, during the dry season, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the outdoor activities are at their best. The rainy season, from October to May, can be unpredictable, and it may limit the access to some of the natural attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Natividade

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and hospitality.
  • Smile and engage in friendly conversation with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the natural environment or wildlife.
  • Ignore the safety guidelines for outdoor activities.
  • Overly criticize or judge the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Natividade

Natividade is a relatively safe town, but as with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, especially in crowded areas. When using public transportation, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. When hiking or exploring the outdoors, follow the safety guidelines and regulations, and avoid going alone or at night.

Health in Natividade

Natividade has basic health care facilities, including clinics and pharmacies. Visitors to the town should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage and should consult with a healthcare provider prior to travel. It is also important to take precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus.

Getting to Natividade: Transportation Options and Logistics

Natividade is located approximately 250 kilometers from Palmas, the state capital of Tocantins. The town can be reached by car, bus, or airplane.

Airports Near Natividade

The nearest airport to Natividade is Palmas International Airport (PMW), which receives flights from major cities in Brazil, including São Paulo, Brasília, and Rio de Janeiro.

Bus Stations Near Natividade

The town can also be reached by bus from Palmas and other nearby cities. The main bus station in Natividade is located in the town center, and it offers frequent connections to major destinations in the region.

Other Options

Car rental facilities are available in Palmas for those who prefer to drive to Natividade. Taxis and private transfers can also be arranged upon request.

How to Get Around in Natividade

The best way to get around Natividade is on foot or by bicycle, as most of the town’s attractions are located within walking or cycling distance. Taxis and private transfers can also be arranged upon request.

Where to Go Next from Natividade: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Palmas: The state capital of Tocantins is a vibrant and modern city known for its cultural diversity and natural beauty.
  • Pirenópolis: This charming colonial town, located in the neighboring state of Goiás, is a popular destination for its historic architecture, waterfalls, and outdoor activities.
  • Chapada dos Veadeiros: This stunning national park, located in the state of Goiás, is home to a rich variety of ecosystems, rock formations, and waterfalls.

Conclusion

Natividade is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience in Brazil. With its rich history and culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, the town offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and immersion in local customs and traditions. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Natividade is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.