South Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in South, Brazil. This travel guide provides useful information from hiking trails and outdoor adventures to cultural and historical attractions, local cuisine, safety and health tips, transportation options, and nearby excursions.


Introduction to South

South is a picturesque region in Brazil, situated in the southernmost part of the country. The region covers three states - Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, and Paraná - and is abundant with natural beauty including stunning landscapes, mountains, waterfalls, and beaches. The area also boasts a rich cultural heritage with a mix of European and indigenous influences. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will provide all the information you need to plan your trip to South, Brazil.

List of Places to Visit in South

South is a diverse region with plenty to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rua Coberta (Covered Street): Located in Gramado City, the Rua Coberta is a charming covered street that is a must-visit tourist attraction. It is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to explore.
  • Museu de Ciências Naturais (Museum of Natural Sciences): This museum is located in Porto Alegre and is a fascinating place to explore. It houses a vast collection of animals, fossils, and minerals from Brazil and around the world.
  • Memorial do Imigrante (Immigrant Memorial): Located in Paraná, this museum celebrates the history of the immigrant experience in Brazil. It features exhibits that delve into the lives of those who came to Brazil, their customs and traditions, and their contributions to Brazilian culture.

Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra (Aparados da Serra National Park): Located in Rio Grande do Sul, this national park boasts stunning canyons, including the Itaimbezinho Canyon, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Brazil.
  • Parque Nacional do Iguaçu (Iguaçu National Park): Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, Iguaçu National Park is home to the famous Iguazu Falls, one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world.
  • Serra do Rio do Rastro (Rio do Rastro Mountain Range): Located in Santa Catarina, this mountain range features a breathtaking winding road that offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South

South is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes worth exploring:

  • Trilha do Rio do Boi (River of the Ox Trail): Located in Aparados da Serra National Park, this trail offers an unforgettable trek through canyons and waterfalls.
  • Caminho das Artes (Arts Trail): Located in Santa Catarina, this trail connects several art studios and galleries, including wood carvers and pottery artisans.
  • Campeonato de Downhill (Downhill Championship): Located in Balneário Camboriú, this bike trail is the site of an annual downhill championship, which attracts bikers from around the world.

Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours

From adventure activities to cultural immersion, South has a lot to offer. Here are some of the must-do activities and tours:

  • Rafting: Those who love an adrenaline-pumping adventure should try rafting in Rio do Peixe or Rio Cubatão.
  • Wine Tour: Wine lovers can indulge their passion by taking a tour of vineyards in Serra Geral.
  • Colonial Treasures Tour: Those interested in history and culture will enjoy taking a tour of colonial towns such as Pomerode and Blumenau.

Week-Long Itinerary for South

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to South:

Day 1: Gramado City

Explore the Rua Coberta, visit the Mini Mundo Park, and take a stroll around the beautiful Lago Negro.

Day 2: Aparados da Serra National Park

Take a guided tour of the Itaimbezinho Canyon, go hiking, and explore the park’s waterfalls.

Day 3: Iguaçu Falls

Visit the Brazilian side of the falls and take a boat ride to the base of the falls.

Day 4: Blumenau and Pomerode

Take a cultural tour of these historic colonial towns and visit local craft shops.

Day 5: Balneário Camboriú

Take a cable car ride to the top of the hill, visit Unipraias Park, and try out zip-lining at ZipRider.

Day 6: Rio do Rastro

Take a road trip to visit the Serra do Rio do Rastro and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Day 7: Florianópolis

Visit Balneário dos Ingleses and take a city tour of Florianópolis.

Food and Drink Scene of South

South is famous for its delicious cuisine, which has been influenced by both European and indigenous traditions.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barreado: A stew made with beef, bacon, and spices that is served with rice and cassava.
  • Feijoada: A black bean stew made with pork, sausages, and beef.
  • Churrasco: A delicious BBQ meat, especially beef.

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça: A sugarcane-based liquor that is a key ingredient in the famous Brazilian cocktail, Caipirinha.
  • Vinicola Campos de Cima: A vineyard in Rio Grande do Sul that produces excellent wines.

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

South has accommodation options for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Class Hotel Lauro Müller: Located in Santa Catarina, this hotel offers a range of amenities, including an indoor pool and a sauna.
  • Pampas Hotel Foz do Iguaçu: Located near Iguaçu Falls, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool.
  • Tulip Inn Santa Felicidade: Located in Paraná, this hotel is set in a beautiful garden and offers a swimming pool and an on-site restaurant.

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

South has several locally made products that make perfect souvenirs. Here are some of the best items to bring home:

  • Handcrafted Pottery: The region is known for its excellent pots, bowls, and vases.
  • Lacework: The state of Paraná is known for its beautiful handmade lacework.
  • Leather Goods: South is home to some of the best leather tanneries in the world, producing handbags, shoes, and belts.

Local Culture and Customs of South

South has a unique blend of European and indigenous cultures, and its people are proud of their traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the region:

  • Respect Religion: Many people in South are Catholic, and churches are an essential part of the region’s culture.
  • Be Respectful of Customs: People in South are warm and welcoming, but they appreciate when visitors respect their customs and traditions.
  • Learn Portuguese: Although people in South may speak some English, Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, and locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak it.

Best Time to Visit South

South can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and it is not too crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of South

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting South:

Do:

  • Try the Local Cuisine: South is known for its delicious food, and visitors should not miss the opportunity to indulge in the local dishes.
  • Respect the Culture: South has a unique cultural heritage, and visitors should respect it.
  • Explore the Outdoors: South is a beautiful region that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Don’t:

  • Be Rude: South is known for its warm and friendly people, and visitors should not be rude or disrespectful.
  • Overpack: Visitors should only pack what is necessary, as the region is warm throughout the year.

Safety and Health

Safety in South

South is generally considered a safe region, but visitors should take precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Stay in Safe Areas: Visitors should stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Watch for Pickpockets: Visitors should be cautious of pickpockets and keep their valuables close to them.
  • Always Lock Hotel Doors: Visitors should always lock their hotel doors, even when inside the room.

Health in South

Visitors should be aware of the following health concerns:

  • Yellow Fever: Visitors should get vaccinated for yellow fever before traveling to South.
  • Sunburn: South is a warm region, and visitors should apply sunscreen and wear hats to protect themselves from sunburn.
  • Mosquitoes: Visitors should use insect repellent to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near South

The main airports in South are:

  • Hercilio Luz International Airport (FLN): Located in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina.
  • Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB): Located in Curitiba, Paraná.
  • Salgado Filho International Airport (POA): Located in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul.

Bus Stations Near South

South is well-connected by bus. Here are some bus stations:

  • Terminal Rodoviário de Florianópolis (Florianópolis Bus Station): Located in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina.
  • Rodoviária Internacional de Foz do Iguaçu (Foz do Iguaçu Bus Station): Located in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná.
  • Terminal de Integração de Porto Alegre (Porto Alegre Bus Terminal): Located in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent cars or take a taxi to get around South.

How to Get Around in South

South has several transportation options for getting around:

  • Bus: Buses are the most popular mode of transportation in South and are very affordable.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the region and are a convenient way to get around.
  • Rent a Car: Visitors can rent a car to explore the region at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can take from South:

  • Curitiba: The capital of Paraná is a vibrant city that is home to several attractions, including parks and museums.
  • Florianópolis: The capital of Santa Catarina is a beautiful city that is known for its pristine beaches and lively nightlife.
  • Serra Gaúcha: Located in Rio Grande do Sul, this region is known for its charming towns and vineyards.

Conclusion

South, Brazil, is an exciting and beautiful region that offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their visit. From the breathtaking natural beauty to the rich cultural heritage, South has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in South.

Iguaçu Falls Iguaçu Falls


    Paraná
    Rio Grande do Sul
    Santa Catarina