Palmas Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive travel guide to Palmas, Brazil.


Introduction to Palmas

Located in the state of Tocantins, Palmas is a modern city that’s rich in history and culture, surrounded by lush scenery and outdoor adventures. This is a destination that’s perfect for anyone looking to explore unique attractions and experiences, and escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities in Brazil.

List of Places to Visit in Palmas

Palmas is home to numerous cultural and natural attractions that will delight travelers of all kinds. Here are some of the must-visit places in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palmas Historical Center: This charming district in the heart of Palmas features a beautiful market surrounded by colonial-style buildings.

  • Espaço Cultural de Palmas: This is a cultural center that hosts all sorts of events and exhibits, showcasing the arts and history of the region.

  • Palacinho: This important landmark is the former home of Palmas’s first governor, rebuilt in the shape of the Palácio do Planalto in Brasília.

Natural Attractions of Palmas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra do Lajeado: This mountain range is home to numerous trails and lookout points that offer stunning views of Palmas city and the surrounding region.

  • Praia da Graciosa: Despite being an artificial beach located on the edge of Lake Palmas, Praia da Graciosa is a popular spot for locals to relax, swim, and sunbathe.

  • Jalapão State Park: If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Jalapão State Park is the place to be. This protected area covers over 30,000 hectares of stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, canyons, and breathtaking dunes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Palmas

If you’re looking for some exercise and adventure, Palmas offers numerous hiking and biking options. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Parque Cesamar: This urban park features numerous trails and paths that wind through lush vegetation and picturesque lakes.

  • Parque Estadual do Cantão: Located about 250 km from Palmas, this state park is a true paradise for hikers and bikers, with a diverse range of landscapes to explore.

  • Parque do Povo: This park is a favorite among locals for its jogging and biking trails, as well as its scenic views of Lake Palmas and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Palmas: Activities and Tours

Palmas has something for everyone, from cultural and historical attractions to outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Here are some of the most exciting things to do in the city:

  • Take a boat ride on Lake Palmas: One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the region is by taking a boat ride on the lake.

  • Explore the city’s street art: Palmas is home to numerous murals and other street art installations, making for a colorful and vibrant atmosphere in the city.

  • Try local cuisine: Palmas is known for its unique regional cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes such as tacacá, paçoca and arroz com pequi.

Week-Long Itinerary for Palmas

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Palmas, including some of the best things to see and do in the city:

  • Day 1: Explore the city center and visit the Palmas Historical Center

  • Day 2: Take a boat ride on Lake Palmas and visit Praia da Graciosa

  • Day 3: Visit Espaço Cultural de Palmas and Palacinho

  • Day 4: Hike Parque Cesamar, followed by an evening at Palmas’s street food night market.

  • Day 5: Visit Serra do Lajeado and Jalapão State Park

  • Day 6: Experience Palmas’s street art scene and local cuisine

  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy leisure time around the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Palmas

Palmas is a culinary melting pot, with influences from indigenous, African, and European cultures. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacacá: A savory soup made with shrimp and jambu, a local herb that has a numbing effect on the tongue.

  • Paçoca: A traditional dish made with ground meat and cassava flour that is popular in the Northeast of Brazil.

  • Arroz com Pequi: A famous dish in Tocantins made up of chicken and rice mixed with ‘Pequi,’ a small yellow fruit that is typical in this region of Brazil.

Local Beverages

  • Cerveja do cerrado: A craft beer made from the flora of the Brazilian savannah.

  • Cachaça: A distilled sugarcane drink, known as one of the most traditional Brazilian alcoholic beverages.

  • Cupuaçu juice: A refreshing and sweet juice made from a fruit native to the Amazon region.

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

Palmas offers numerous options for accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Girassol Plaza Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Palmas, and features upscale rooms with incredible views of the city.

  • Hostel 10 Palmas: A budget-friendly hostel with a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for backpackers who want to meet new people and explore the city.

  • Casa do Dobado: This guesthouse is located in a charming neighborhood, with beautiful gardens, comfortable rooms, and personalized service.

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

If you want to bring home a piece of Palmas, here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Handicrafts: A range of handcrafted goods, including textiles, pottery, and wood carvings, can be found in local markets.

  • Cerrado Honey: This honey is made from bees that pollinate the plants of the cerrado savannah.

  • Laiane’s Seasoning Products: A line of local spices and seasonings that are perfect for cooking and seasoning dishes.

Local Culture and Customs of Palmas

Palmas has a rich cultural heritage influenced by indigenous cultures, African descendants, and Portuguese colonization. Here are some of the customs and cultural norms that you can expect to encounter in the city:

  • The handcraft created by the Krahô and Karajá Indians is an important part of the culture in Palmas.

  • When visiting someone’s home, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering.

  • Tipping is voluntary, but it’s common to tip around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Palmas

The best time to visit Palmas is from April to October when the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. November to March is the rainy season, which can bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Palmas

Here are some helpful tips for visiting Palmas:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture, particularly when visiting indigenous communities.

  • Try the local cuisine, which is diverse and flavorful.

  • Plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance.

Don’t:

  • Travel alone at night, especially in less populated areas.

  • Leave your possessions unattended in public places.

  • Drink tap water, as it’s not safe for drinking.

Safety and Health

When traveling to Palmas, it’s important to take care of your safety and health. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Palmas

  • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

  • Use only official taxis and ride-hail services rather than street vendors.

  • Keep an eye on your belongings in public places, particularly in crowded areas.

Health in Palmas

  • The sun can be intense in Palmas, so make sure to wear sunscreen, a hat, and proper clothing.

  • Drink bottled water or filtered water, and avoid consuming uncooked or undercooked food.

  • Zika virus is present in Brazil, particularly during the summer months, so take the necessary precautions if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Getting to Palmas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Palmas is well-connected, and there are various transportation options to choose from. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Palmas

  • Palmas International Airport (PMW) is the main airport in the city, located about 22 km from the city center.

  • Brasília International Airport (BSB) is a nearby international airport with connections to Palmas.

Bus Stations Near Palmas

  • Palmas Bus Station is located in the center of the city, and offers connections to various destinations throughout the country.

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at Palmas airport and other locations throughout the city.

  • Taxis and ride-hail services are widely available in Palmas.

How to Get Around in Palmas

Palmas is an easy city to navigate, with numerous transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

  • Bus: Local buses are an affordable and convenient way to get around the city.

  • Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or via app.

  • Bike: Palmas has a growing network of bike lanes and rental bikes, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Palmas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, there are numerous nearby destinations you can explore from Palmas, including:

  • Brasília: Brazil’s capital city is just a few hours’ drive from Palmas, and features modernist architecture and beautiful parks.

  • Chapada dos Veadeiros: A national park located in the state of Goias, featuring waterfalls, canyons, and hiking trails.

  • Tocantins River: This river runs through the state of Tocantins and is a popular spot for fishing, wildlife spotting, and kayaking.

Conclusion

As you can see, Palmas is a remarkable city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a traveler looking for outdoor adventures or someone interested in exploring Brazilian culture, Palmas has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be fully prepared to experience all that this amazing city has to offer.