Canela Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about exploring the charming town of Canela, Brazil - from the must-see attractions to the best food and drink spots and local customs. Discover amazing outdoor adventures and natural wonders, and learn when is the best time to visit Canela.


Introduction to Canela

Located in Grande Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, in the south of Brazil, Canela is a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Serra Gaúcha mountain range. Known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage, Canela is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to discover a hidden gem in Brazil. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about exploring this town and making the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Canela

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Parque do Caracol: A stunning natural park featuring the famous Caracol Falls and offering plenty of trails for hiking and picnicking.
  • Casa de Pedra: A historical museum that showcases the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the region.
  • Museu da Moda: A fashion museum that displays clothing and accessories from different time periods and regions of the country.
  • Catedral de Pedra: A stunning gothic-style cathedral that is a must-visit for its stunning architecture.

Natural Attractions of Canela: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque da Ferradura: A natural park that offers amazing views of the Serra Gaúcha mountain range and offers hiking and biking trails.
  • Parque Estadual do Tainhas: A protected area that is home to many species of native fauna and flora, including jaguars and hummingbirds.
  • Alpen Park: An adventure park that features a zip line, rappelling, and a roller coaster.
  • Castelinho Caracol: A picturesque, half-timbered Gothic-style castle that offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Canela

  • Trilhas do Parque da Ferradura: This trail features a 3.5 km hiking trail that leads through lush forest and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Trilha do Rio do Peixe: A 7km hiking trail that follows the banks of the Rio do Peixe through the lush Atlantic Forest.
  • Trilha dos Cinco Saltos: A 5km hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of five waterfalls.
  • Caminho das Araucárias: A 9km hiking trail that leads through an araucaria forest and includes many scenic lookout points.

Best Things to Do in Canela: Activities and Tours

  • Caracol Falls Tour: This tour takes visitors to the famous Caracol Falls and offers an opportunity to take a cable car and admire the views.
  • Rio Caí Kayaking: Kayak along the Rio Caí and through the beautiful Serra Gaúcha mountains.
  • Paragliding Tour: Experience the thrill of paragliding and take in the views of the Serra Gaúcha mountains.
  • Wine Tasting Tour: Take a tour of the local vineyards and enjoy some of Brazil’s finest wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Canela

Day 1 Hiking in the Parque da Ferradura
Day 2 Exploring the Casa de Pedra and Catedral de Pedra
Day 3 Adventure at Alpen Park
Day 4 Rio Caí Kayaking
Day 5 Trilha dos Cinco Saltos
Day 6 Wine Tasting Tour
Day 7 Relaxation at Parque Estadual do Tainhas

Food and Drink Scene of Canela

Must-Try Dishes

  • Churrasco: Brazilian barbecue featuring grilled meats, including beef, chicken, and pork.
  • Arroz Carreteiro: A traditional rice dish with meat and spices.
  • Sopa de Capeletti: A hearty soup made with homemade pasta filled with meat, cheese, or vegetable filling.
  • Cucas: A sweet cake of German origin that is a local specialty.

Local Beverages

  • Caipirinha: A traditional Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar.
  • Chimarrão: A hot drink made from the herb yerba mate, which is traditionally served in a gourd and sipped through a metal straw.
  • Vinho Verde: A sparkling white wine that is perfect for sipping on a hot day.

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

  • Pousada Villa Allegro: A charming guesthouse that is located in downtown Canela and features a beautiful garden.
  • Laje de Pedra Hotel: An upscale hotel that boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and offers a variety of amenities, including a pool and a spa.
  • Pousada Encantos da Terra: A cozy guesthouse that is known for its friendly staff and spacious rooms.

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

  • Leather Goods: Canela is known for its leather industry, so be sure to pick up a pair of leather shoes or a leather wallet.
  • Handmade Crafts: The town is also known for its many skilled artisans who create beautiful handmade crafts, including ceramics and textiles.
  • Wine: Canela is surrounded by vineyards, so why not bring home some local wines to enjoy?

Local Culture and Customs of Canela

Canela is known for its German and Italian heritage, so be sure to take the time to explore the local culture, including traditional architecture, music, and cuisine. The people of Canela are warm and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation and learn more about their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Canela

The best time to visit Canela is from March to May or from September to November, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller. December and January are peak months, so expect higher prices and bigger crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Canela

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including churrasco and cucas.
  • Take the time to explore the local culture and customs.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the town and its many hiking trails.

Don’t:

  • Expect to find many English speakers; Portuguese is the primary language.
  • Ignore the weather; be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting the town’s religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Canela

Canela is a safe town, but as with any destination, visitors should take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables in plain view in a car and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Canela

Visitors should be up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Brazil. The town does not have any major health hazards, but travelers should take care to avoid drinking tap water and be cautious when consuming street food.

Getting to Canela: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Canela

The nearest airport to Canela is the Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre, which is about two hours away by car or bus.

Bus Stations Near Canela

The Canela bus station serves several routes from Porto Alegre and other nearby towns.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are also available to travelers who prefer not to take public transportation.

How to Get Around in Canela

The best way to get around Canela is on foot or by bike. Taxis are also available, or visitors can rent a car to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Canela: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gramado: A nearby town that is known for its European-style architecture and Christmas lights.
  • Bento Gonçalves: A wine-producing region that is home to some of Brazil’s most famous vineyards.
  • Torres: A beach town that offers some of the best surf in Brazil.

Conclusion

Canela is a hidden gem in the south of Brazil, offering stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of outdoor adventures. With this guide, you should be able to plan the perfect trip to make the most of your time in this charming town. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for delicious cuisine!

Cascata do Caracol (Snail Falls) Cascata do Caracol (Snail Falls) The stone Cathedral in Canela The stone Cathedral in Canela The Paranhana River The Paranhana River