Vacaria Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions, food and drink scene, places to stay, local customs, and logistics of Visiting Vacaria, Brazil.


Introduction to Vacaria

Located in the Rio Grande do Sul state of Brazil, Vacaria is an enchanting city known for its spectacular countryside filled with lush greenery, winding rivers, and stunning mountain ranges. At the heart of the city lies a strong gaucho culture that celebrates traditional cowboy values and customs. The city is a perfect blend of old and new, where modern infrastructures stand alongside historic buildings.

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience filled with culture, adventure, and breathtaking scenery, then Vacaria is the perfect destination for you!

List of Places to Visit in Vacaria

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Getulio Vargas Museum: This museum gives visitors a glimpse into the life and times of Brazil’s former president and political leader, Getulio Vargas. The museum boasts an extensive collection of Vargas’ personal belongings, including furniture, clothing, and books.

  • Praça Daltro Filho: This historic square is reminiscent of the colonial era in Brazil. It is home to a beautiful fountain and a variety of well-preserved historic buildings with distinct European architecture.

  • Catedral Nossa Senhora da Oliveira: This beautiful cathedral is a landmark of Vacaria with its grand architecture and intricate designs. Visitors can attend daily masses or simply marvel at the stunning stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Vacaria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque dos Rodeios: This park hosts one of the largest rodeo festivals in Brazil. Visitors can experience the thrill of bull riding, bronco riding, and steer wrestling while enjoying local food and music.

  • Rio Vacaria: The river that runs through the city offers a range of activities from swimming and kayaking to fishing and camping. The waters are crystal clear, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

  • Coxilha Rica: This stunning mountain range offers breathtaking panoramic views of Vacaria. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular ways to explore the rugged terrain of the mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vacaria

Vacaria is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, with several incredible hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Trilha da Cascata: This five-mile hike takes you through lush forest terrain to a stunning waterfall with crystal clear waters.

  • Circuito das Araucarias: This scenic bike tour takes you through a protected forest area with a diversity of flora and fauna. The route is a relatively easy ride with some challenging uphill sections.

  • Pedra da Águia: This four-mile trek takes you through breathtaking scenery, with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from the top of a giant boulder.

Best Things to Do in Vacaria: Activities and Tours

  • Visit a Local Estância: The best way to explore the authentic gaúcho culture is by visiting one of the estâncias (ranches) in the surrounding hills. Experience horseback riding, horse-drawn carriage rides, and savor delicious traditional Barbecue dishes.

  • Attend the Rodeo Festival: If you happen to be in Vacaria during the annual festival in February, be sure to attend the rodeo festival at Parque dos Rodeios, where you can enjoy exciting rodeo competitions and live music.

  • Take a Scenic Drive: The rugged mountain terrain surrounding Vacaria is perfect for scenic drives. Rent a car or hire a driver and explore the majestic views of the Serra Geral and Campos de Cima da Serra.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vacaria

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Getulio Vargas Museum and Historic Praça Daltro Filho
Day 2 Hike the Trilha da Cascata
Day 3 Visit a local Estância
Day 4 Bike the Circuito das Araucarias
Day 5 Visit the Catedral Nossa Senhora da Oliveira and take a scenic drive through the mountains
Day 6 Attend the Rodeo Festival at Parque dos Rodeios
Day 7 Relax by the river at Rio Vacaria and savor traditional Barbecue dishes with locals

Food and Drink Scene of Vacaria

Vacaria is famous for its delicious Barbecue dishes using a range of meat cuts prepared over an open flame. Here are some must-try dishes and popular local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Churrasco: A variety of grilled meats (beef, chicken, lamb, sausage, etc.) served with chimichurri sauce and bread.

  • Arroz Carreteiro: Rice mixed with beef jerky, onion, and garlic.

  • Feijão Campeiro: A bean and pork stew with vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Chimarrão: A traditional tea made from a type of yerba mate that is popular in southern Brazil.

  • Cachaça: A distilled spirit made from sugarcane that is often used to make the famous Brazilian cocktail, caipirinha.

  • Chopp: Brazilian beer served in frozen glasses.

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

Vacaria has a range of affordable lodging options catering to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Araucária: A cozy boutique hotel with comfortable rooms and a friendly staff, located in the heart of Vacaria.

  • Hostel Vacaria: A budget-friendly hostel with bunk beds and shared bathrooms located within walking distance of the city center.

  • Pousada Refúgio dos Pássaros: A beautiful guesthouse surrounded by lush gardens and breathtaking scenery, located in the mountains outside of Vacaria.

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

  • Leather Goods: Vacaria is famous for its high-quality leather products, including belts, wallets, and shoes. You can find them in shops around the city.

  • Handicrafts: There are several small shops and street markets that sell unique handcrafted products, including pottery, textiles, and wooden sculptures.

  • Milk Candy: A traditional sweet treat made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Vacaria

Vacaria is a city with rich cultural traditions, and it’s essential to respect local customs and etiquette. Here are some helpful tips:

  • Greet Locals: Brazilians are generally friendly and love to greet one another with a handshake or a hug. It’s essential to greet locals politely when you meet them.

  • Dress Appropriately: Brazilian culture encourages modest dressing; men should avoid wearing tank tops in public areas, while women should cover their shoulders.

  • Use Portuguese: Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, and locals prefer it over English. Knowing some basic Portuguese phrases can be helpful.

Best Time to Visit Vacaria

Vacaria is a year-round destination, with pleasant temperatures and festive events throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is from December to February when temperatures are warmer and the Parque dos Rodeios hosts its annual Rodeo Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vacaria

Do:

  • Take Part in Local Festivals: Brazilian festivals are vibrant and full of energy. Don’t hesitate to join in the fun with the locals.

  • Try Traditional Dishes: Brazilian cuisine is rich with unique flavors and is often best experienced through traditional dishes.

  • Explore the Outdoors: Vacaria offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Take advantage of the hiking, biking, and camping opportunities available.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Brazil is known for its beautiful scenery, so always be sure to dispose of trash correctly.

  • Overindulge: Brazilians love to enjoy a good party, but moderation is key. Avoid excess consumption of alcohol and other substances.

  • Forget Sunscreen: With the sun shining bright, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vacaria

Vacaria is a safe city, and the locals are friendly and helpful towards tourists. However, it’s always essential to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety, such as:

  • Avoid Walking Alone at Night: As with any city, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night in isolated or unfamiliar areas.

  • Keep Valuables Safe: Keep your valuable possessions such as cameras, wallets, and phones secure at all times.

Health in Vacaria

Brazil requires tourists to have a yellow fever vaccination before traveling to certain areas. Additionally, it’s essential to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya. Carrying insect repellent and wearing protective clothing can help prevent bites.

Getting to Vacaria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Vacaria is well-connected to major cities and towns in Brazil. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Vacaria

  • Caxias do Sul International Airport: The nearest airport is located approximately 98km from Vacaria and offers domestic and international flight options.

Bus Stations Near Vacaria

  • Vacaria Bus Station: The city’s central bus station offers connections to major cities in Brazil.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Car rentals are available in nearby cities, such as Caxias do Sul, and offer an easy way to explore the region at your leisure.

How to Get Around in Vacaria

Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are available in Vacaria and offer the most convenient way to move around the city. If you prefer to travel in groups, buses are an affordable transportation option.

Where to Go Next from Vacaria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Vacaria is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding region and experiencing more of Brazil’s culture and natural beauty. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Canela and Gramado: These neighboring cities are known for their charming European-style architecture and picturesque scenery.

  • Campos de Cima da Serra: A stunning mountain range with several small towns, offering stunning views of the countryside.

  • Aparados da Serra National Park: This park has impressive natural scenery with picturesque waterfalls and canyons.

Conclusion

Vacaria is a unique destination that boasts a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of natural beauty, making it an ideal location for those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience. From pristine rivers and streams to lush forests and sweeping mountain ranges, Vacaria is a destination with something to offer every type of traveler. Additionally, the city’s gaucho culture and delicious traditional cuisine make it an experience not to be missed. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to discover Vacaria!

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