West Travel Guide (Santa Catarina/South/Brazil/South America)

Introduction to West

West is a beautiful municipality located in the state of Santa Catarina, in the southern region of Brazil. With its scenic views, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, West offers a variety of unique experiences to travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. In this travel guide, we will take you on a virtual journey through West, and help you plan your trip to this enchanting destination.

List of Places to Visit in West

Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or thrill-seeker, West has something for everyone. Here’s a list of must-visit places in West:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museum of West: This museum showcases the history and culture of West through a range of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
São Miguel Arcanjo Church: This 18th-century church is one of the oldest and most significant historical landmarks in West.
Casa do Artesão: This traditional house displays local handicrafts made from clay, wood, and other materials, providing visitors with an insight into the art and culture of West.

Natural Attractions of West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Morro do Baú: This mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain or go paragliding for an adrenaline rush.
Itapocu National Park: This park boasts diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls, and hiking trails that offer many opportunities for nature lovers to explore the great outdoors.
Sao Joao Batista waterfall: A natural waterfall and pool that provides a refreshing break from the city’s heat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West

West is home to several hiking and biking trails that attract outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Here’s a list of some of the popular routes in and around West:

Rota das Cachoeiras: This hiking trail leads visitors through lush forests, past waterfalls, and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Estrada Bonita: This scenic route comprises several paved and unpaved roads that take visitors through picturesque villages, rivers, and valleys.
Circuito Engenho Velho: This mountain biking trail is perfect for experienced bikers looking for a challenging adventure.

Best Things to Do in West: Activities and Tours

West offers many exciting activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in West:

Paragliding in Morro do Baú: Take an unforgettable paragliding flight to experience the stunning views of West from above.
Rafting in Itapocu River: Navigate the rapids of the Itapocu River for a thrilling adventure that will test your skills.
Horseback riding: Enjoy a peaceful ride through the countryside while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for West

If you are planning a week-long trip to West, here’s a sample itinerary that will enable you to experience the best of the destination:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit the Museum of West and tour the São Miguel Arcanjo Church
Day 2	Explore the Itapocu National Park and hike the Rota das Cachoeiras trail
Day 3	Go paragliding in Morro do Baú and enjoy the stunning views of the valley
Day 4	Explore the Estrada Bonita and visit the traditional villages on its route
Day 5	Take a horseback ride through the countryside of West
Day 6	Visit the Casa do Artesão and buy souvenirs for your loved ones
Day 7	Relax by the Sao Joao Batista waterfall and enjoy a peaceful day in nature

Food and Drink Scene of West

Brazil is famous for its vibrant food and drink scene, and West is no exception. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages in West:

Must-Try Dishes

Barreado: A traditional Brazilian stew made with beef, bacon, and cassava flour served with rice and sliced bananas.
Cabbage Rolls: A vegetarian dish made from cabbage leaves stuffed with rice, vegetables, and spices.
Tainha Assada: A grilled fish dish that’s a staple in the local cuisine.

Local Beverages

Cachaça: The national drink of Brazil, cachaça is a distilled liquor made from sugar cane that’s used to make famous cocktails like Caipirinha.
Colombo: A traditional Brazilian soft drink made from guarana, a berry that’s native to Brazil.
Mate tea: A traditional Brazilian tea made from yerba mate, a plant that’s native to the region.

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

West offers several accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in West:

Hotel Mercure Jaragua do Sul: A modern and comfortable hotel in the heart of the city.
Pousada Canto das Águas: A cozy guesthouse with stunning views of the valley and Sao Joao Batista waterfall.
Eco Hostel Canto dos Pássaros: A budget-friendly hostel surrounded by nature and offering an eco-friendly stay experience.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, West offers a wide range of options. Here are some of the best items to buy in West:

Handmade pottery: West is known for its traditional handicrafts made from clay, such as pots, vases, and figurines.
Local wines: West has a variety of vineyards that produce high-quality wines that are unique to the region.
Locally sourced honey: West is known for its honey production, and you can find jars of this delicious honey in many of the local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of West

The locals in West are friendly, warm, and welcoming to visitors. The culture of West is heavily influenced by its German and Italian roots, with a mix of Brazilian traditions. One of the most significant events in West’s cultural calendar is the Schutzenfest, an annual festival that celebrates its German heritage.

Best Time to Visit West

The best time to visit West is in the summer months from December to February, when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, if you’re looking for a quieter time, then the off-season months of March to November are also a good option.

Do’s and Don’ts of West

To make the most of your trip to West, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Respect the locals and their cultural heritage.
Take precautions against mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season.

Don’t:

Wear revealing clothing in public places, as it may be deemed disrespectful.
Make noise or disturb the peace in local neighborhoods.

Safety and Health

West is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but it’s always important to take precautions and stay alert. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in West

Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with you.
Take precautions against mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season.

Health in West

Make sure to get vaccinated against yellow fever at least 10 days before your trip.
Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburns and heatstroke.
Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Getting to West: Transportation Options and Logistics

West is well-connected to other major cities in Brazil, making it easily accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some of the transportation options to get to West:

Airports Near West

Joinville-Lauro Carneiro de Loyola Airport: Located 57 km from West.
Navegantes-Ministro Victor Konder International Airport: Located 108 km from West.

Bus Stations Near West

Jaraguá do Sul Bus Station: Located in the city center, within walking distance of many attractions in West.

Other Options

Car rental: Many car rental companies operate in West, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

How to Get Around in West

West is a small city and is easily navigable on foot or by bike. Public transportation options, such as buses and taxis, are also available in the city.

Where to Go Next from West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions from West that are worth checking out:

Florianópolis: An island city known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.
Blumenau: A city known for its German heritage, beer festivals, and traditional architecture.
Bombinhas: A beach paradise that boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil.

Conclusion

West is a hidden gem in Brazil that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting adventures. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, immerse yourself in the local culture, or simply relax and unwind, West has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip to West and discover this enchanting destination for yourself.

Chapecó

São Miguel do Oeste