Santana de Parnaíba Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Santana de Parnaíba. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Santana de Parnaíba

Santana de Parnaíba, a charming city located in the state of São Paulo in Brazil, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. With its well-preserved historical center, museums, parks, and natural attractions, Santana de Parnaíba offers plenty of things to do and see for travelers.

The city is only 37 kilometers away from Sāo Paolo, making it a great destination for a day trip. However, with its peaceful ambiance and welcoming locals, you won’t want to leave anytime soon.

List of Places to Visit in Santana de Parnaíba

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Santana de Parnaíba is known for its well-preserved historical center that has over 70 colonial buildings. Start your tour at the Praça 14 de Novembro, the city’s main square, and walk down the Rua Direita (Straight Street), a pedestrian street that’s lined with shops, bars, and centuries-old buildings.

Visit the Casa do Anhanguera, the residence of the city’s founder, Bartolomeu Bueno da Silva, and now a museum. The Museu Casa do Anhanguera has a collection of artworks, documents, and artifacts related to the history of Santana de Parnaíba.

Another museum worth visiting is the Museu da Música de Itu, which has a collection of over 4000 musical instruments, including the world’s largest tuba. The Museu do Índio (Indian Museum) showcases the indigenous culture of Brazil through art, crafts, and daily objects.

Natural Attractions of Santana de Parnaíba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Santana de Parnaíba is surrounded by greenery and natural beauty. The Parque Ecológico Municipal is a great spot for a family picnic, a jog, or a bike ride. The park has a lake, hiking trails, playgrounds, and a restaurant.

Another natural wonder to explore is the Serra do Mar State Park, a protected mountain area that covers over 300,000 hectares. The park has hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Atlantic Forest. Take the Pico do Itapeva trail for a challenging trek and a rewarding view of the valley.

If you’re a bird watcher, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Reserva Biológica do Tietê, a natural reserve that’s home to over 300 bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santana de Parnaíba

Santana de Parnaíba offers several cycling and hiking routes that take you through lush forests and historic villages. Here are some of the best:

  • Rota das Bandeiras (Flag Route)
  • Rota das Capelas (Chapel Route)
  • Rota dos Mirantes (Viewpoint Route)
  • Rota do Rio Tietê (Tietê River Route)

Make sure to plan ahead and bring enough water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Best Things to Do in Santana de Parnaíba: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and cycling, there are many other things to do in Santana de Parnaíba:

  • Take a boat tour along the Tietê River and admire the scenic views.
  • Visit the Santuário Nossa Senhora da Piedade, a pilgrimage site that has a chapel and a grotto.
  • Go horse riding at the Clube Hípico Cantareira.
  • Attend a performance or a workshop at the Centro de Estudos Musicais Tom Jobim.
  • Join a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Brazilian dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santana de Parnaíba

To make the most of your visit to Santana de Parnaíba, here’s a week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit the historical center and the Casa do Anhanguera museum. Have lunch at one of the restaurants on Rua Direita.
  • Day 2: Explore the Parque Ecológico Municipal and have a picnic by the lake.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour along the Tietê River.
  • Day 4: Go hiking at the Serra do Mar State Park.
  • Day 5: Visit the Reserva Biológica do Tietê and watch the birds.
  • Day 6: Take a cycling tour along the Rota das Bandeiras.
  • Day 7: Attend a performance at the Centro de Estudos Musicais Tom Jobim.

Food and Drink Scene of Santana de Parnaíba

Must-Try Dishes

Santana de Parnaíba is known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine that is rich in spices and flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Feijoada: a stew made of black beans, meat, and vegetables.
  • Coxinha: fried potato dough filled with chicken or cheese.
  • Brigadeiro: a sweet treat made of condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
  • Pão de queijo: cheese bread made of tapioca flour and cheese.

Local Beverages

Quench your thirst with these local beverages:

  • Caipirinha: Brazil’s national drink, made of cachaça, lime, and sugar.
  • Guarana: a soft drink made with the guarana fruit, which is grown in the Amazon region.
  • Cerveja: beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in Brazil, and there are many local brands to try.

Where to Stay in Santana de Parnaíba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santana de Parnaíba has a variety of accommodations that suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best:

  • Hotel Fazenda Solar das Andorinhas: a rustic-style hotel that has a pool, a restaurant, and a spa.
  • Pousada Paraíso: a guesthouse that’s located in the historical center and offers breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • Hostel 021: a budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory rooms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Santana de Parnaíba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home some souvenirs and local products that represent the culture and traditions of Santana de Parnaíba:

  • Artisanal cheese: Santana de Parnaíba is known for its cheese production, especially the “queijo da minha terra”.
  • Handmade pottery: visit the Ateliê de Cerâmica Predileta for unique handmade pottery.
  • Goiabada: a sweet treat made of guava paste.

Local Culture and Customs of Santana de Parnaíba

The locals of Santana de Parnaíba are friendly and welcoming to tourists. They are proud of their history and culture and are happy to share it with visitors.

Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, but many locals also speak English and Spanish.

Best Time to Visit Santana de Parnaíba

The best time to visit Santana de Parnaíba is during the dry season, from May to September. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C.

Avoid visiting during the rainy season, from December to March, as the weather can be unpredictable and some attractions might be closed due to floods or landslides.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santana de Parnaíba

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.

Don’t:

  • Leave your belongings unattended.
  • Litter in public places.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals or their traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santana de Parnaíba

Santana de Parnaíba is a safe and peaceful city, but as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions:

  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
  • Don’t show off expensive belongings in public.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place, such as a hotel safe.

Health in Santana de Parnaíba

Santana de Parnaíba has good medical facilities and hospitals in case of any emergency. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities.

Getting to Santana de Parnaíba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Santana de Parnaíba

The nearest airport is the Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo, which is about 40 kilometers away from Santana de Parnaíba.

Bus Stations Near Santana de Parnaíba

There are several bus stations near Santana de Parnaíba, such as the Terminal Rodoviário Tietê, which is about 40 kilometers away.

Other Options

You can also rent a car and drive to Santana de Parnaíba from Sāo Paolo.

How to Get Around in Santana de Parnaíba

The best way to get around Santana de Parnaíba is on foot or by bike if you’re exploring the historical center or the Parque Ecológico Municipal. Taxis and Uber services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Santana de Parnaíba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • São Paulo: Brazil’s largest city is only 37 kilometers away and offers a vibrant culture, museums, and nightlife.
  • Ilhabela: a picturesque island that’s known for its beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  • Araçariguama: a historic town that’s famous for its train station, which is a cultural heritage site.

Conclusion

Santana de Parnaíba is a destination that is full of surprises and hidden treasures. From its rich history and culture to its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Santana de Parnaíba has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover this charming city for yourself!

Santana de Parnaíba Historic Center. Santana de Parnaíba Historic Center.