Mafra Travel Guide

This comprehensive guide to Mafra, Santa Catarina in South Brazil, covers everything from natural attractions and outdoor activities to cultural landmarks and local cuisine. With detailed information on transportation, accommodation, and safety, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip to this hidden gem of South America.


Introduction to Mafra

Mafra is a small city located in the northern part of the Santa Catarina state in South Brazil. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Mafra is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The city is located about 170 kilometers from the state capital, Florianópolis, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

List of Places to Visit in Mafra

Mafra has a lot to offer for travelers looking for a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural immersion. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mafra National Palace: Built in the 18th century, this baroque-style palace is the largest monument in Brazil and houses a museum showcasing the city’s cultural heritage.
  2. Mafra Cathedral: Located in the city center, this impressive cathedral dates back to the 19th century and features beautiful neo-gothic architecture.
  3. The Historical Archive of Mafra: This museum houses an extensive collection of documents and objects related to the history of Mafra and the region.

Natural Attractions of Mafra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Serra do Mar State Park: This park covers more than 3000 hectares of preserved Atlantic Forest in the Serra do Mar mountain range and offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
  2. Rio Negro Waterfall: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region, Rio Negro is located about 30 kilometers from Mafra and is a great spot for swimming, hiking, and picnics.
  3. Morro da Cruz Lookout: Located in the heart of Mafra, this hill offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mafra

Mafra is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and has many great routes for hiking and biking. Here are some of the most popular:

  1. Caminho do Itupava Trail: This historic trail connects Mafra to the neighboring city of Curitiba and offers stunning views of the Serra do Mar mountain range.
  2. Rio Negro Trail: This trail follows the Rio Negro river and offers fantastic views of waterfalls, forests, and rock formations.
  3. Serra do Mar Trail: This challenging trail crosses the Serra do Mar mountain range and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Forest and the coastline.

Best Things to Do in Mafra: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are many other things to do in Mafra. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

  1. Kayaking on the Rio Negro river: This guided tour takes you through the scenic Rio Negro river, where you can see waterfalls, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
  2. Horseback riding: Explore the beautiful countryside of Mafra on horseback and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.
  3. Cachaça Tasting: Visit a local distillery and learn about the production of the famous Brazilian sugarcane-based spirit, cachaça, and enjoy tasting different varieties.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mafra

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Mafra, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Mafra National Palace and explore the city center
Day 2 Hike the Caminho do Itupava Trail
Day 3 Explore the Rio Negro Waterfall and surrounding forest
Day 4 Take a kayaking tour on the Rio Negro river
Day 5 Visit the Morro da Cruz lookout and Serra do Mar State Park
Day 6 Horseback riding tour in the countryside
Day 7 Visit a cachaça distillery and enjoy tasting different varieties

Food and Drink Scene of Mafra

Mafra has a rich culinary heritage and offers delicious food and drinks that are unique to the region.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Barreado: This traditional dish is made with beef, bacon, onion, and cassava flour, cooked slowly in a clay pot and served with rice and banana.
  2. Pastel de Pinhão: This fried pastry is filled with pinhão, the seeds of the Araucaria tree, a local delicacy.
  3. Linguiça: This flavorful smoked sausage is made with pork, garlic, and paprika and is a popular snack in the region.

Local Beverages

  1. Cachaça: A sugarcane-based spirit that is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in Brazil.
  2. Vinho de Altitude: This high-altitude wine is produced in the region and is known for its unique flavor and aroma.

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

Mafra has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Here are some of the best:

  1. Pousada Paraiso: This charming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden, located in the city center.
  2. Hotel Demarchi: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant, located near the Serra do Mar State Park.
  3. Albergue Hostel Mafra: This cozy hostel offers dormitory rooms and private suites, located in the city center.

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

Mafra is known for its handicrafts and local products that make great souvenirs. Here are some of the best:

  1. Pinhão products: Pinhão snacks, flour, and other products made with this local delicacy.
  2. Handicrafts: Wooden sculptures, pottery, and textiles made by local artisans.
  3. Cachaça: Take home a bottle of high-quality cachaça to enjoy back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Mafra

Mafra has a rich cultural heritage and traditions that are a blend of Portuguese, African, and indigenous influences. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Mafra

The best time to visit Mafra is from March to October when the weather is cool and dry, and the landscapes are lush and green. December to February is the peak tourist season, with higher prices and more crowded attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mafra

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  3. Explore the natural attractions and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Leave trash or litter in natural areas.
  2. Disrespect the local wildlife.
  3. Ignore safety rules and warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mafra

Mafra is a relatively safe city, but it’s always best to take precautions and avoid walking alone at night, especially in deserted areas. Be aware of pickpockets and keep valuables and documents safe at all times.

Health in Mafra

Mafra has hospitals and health clinics that offer basic medical services. It’s recommended to have travel insurance and check with your doctor before traveling, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to Mafra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mafra is located about 170 kilometers from Florianópolis, the state capital of Santa Catarina, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Airports Near Mafra

The closest airport to Mafra is Joinville-Lauro Carneiro de Loyola Airport, about 120 kilometers away. Other nearby airports include Florianópolis International Airport and Curitiba International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Mafra

Mafra has a bus station that connects the city to other destinations in Santa Catarina and nearby states. There are also long-distance bus companies that operate in the region.

Other Options

Renting a car is another good option for getting around Mafra and exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Mafra

Mafra is a small city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and local buses are also available, but they may not be very frequent.

Where to Go Next from Mafra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mafra is located in a beautiful region of Santa Catarina that offers many other great destinations and excursions. Here are some of the best:

  1. Balneário Camboriú: A popular beach destination located about 200 kilometers from Mafra, known for its stunning beaches and nightlife.
  2. Curitiba: The capital of the neighboring state of Paraná, Curitiba is a beautiful city with a rich cultural scene, museums, and parks.
  3. Florianópolis: The capital of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis is a vibrant city with beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and great restaurants.

Conclusion

Mafra is a hidden gem of South Brazil, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan the perfect trip and discover all that this beautiful city has to offer.

An old house in Mafra An old house in Mafra