Things To Do
in Alagoa Nova

Alagoa Nova is a small, picturesque municipality in the highlands of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil, known for green rolling hills, cool breezes for the region and a strong agricultural tradition. The town combines rural charm with pockets of lively community culture — especially during festas juninas and other local celebrations. Visitors find scenic viewpoints, waterfalls and coffee/fruit farms within short drives, making it a good base for low-impact eco-tourism and day hikes.

Infrastructure is modest compared with larger cities, but the warm hospitality and authentic local life are highlights for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries and coffee. After breakfast, immerse yourself in the rich history of Alagoa Nova by visiting the charming colonial-era buildings and quaint streets. Don't miss the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about the town's heritage.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts and fresh produce. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste regional dishes like carne de sol and feijão verde. After lunch, take a stroll through the park, enjoying the tranquility and perhaps catching a local performance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a café or bar to enjoy some live music, a staple of Alagoa Nova's nightlife. Sample local drinks and mingle with both locals and visitors while enjoying the lively atmosphere. End your evening with a moonlit walk through the town, appreciating the beauty of the historic architecture illuminated at night.

day 2
Nature Trails and Scenic Views
morning
:

Begin your day with an energizing breakfast before heading out to explore the lush nature trails surrounding Alagoa Nova. The morning is perfect for hiking, as the cool temperatures allow you to fully enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including colorful birds and unique flora.

afternoon
:

After a morning of adventure, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic overlook, taking in the breathtaking landscapes. Post-lunch, continue your exploration by visiting nearby waterfalls where you can swim in the refreshing waters and relax in the natural beauty. Capture the moments with your camera as the sunlight dances on the water's surface.

evening
:

Return to Alagoa Nova and indulge in a delicious dinner at a local steakhouse, known for its barbecue specialties. As you dine, reflect on the day's adventures and the serene beauty of nature surrounding you. Conclude the evening by visiting a local artisan shop to pick up unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee and pastry$1-3
🛏️Budget hotel / pousada (per night)$25-60
🚍Local bus ride$0.50-1.50
🚕Short taxi ride$3-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic highland landscapes and pleasant microclimate
  • Authentic rural culture and strong local hospitality
  • Low costs compared with major Brazilian cities
  • Great for relaxed nature activities, photography and cultural immersion
  • Limited tourist infrastructure and English-language services
  • Fewer public-transport options—best accessed by car
  • Smaller selection of restaurants, nightlife and accommodation choices
  • Occasional unpaved roads and limited signage for independent travelers
  • "Olá / Bom dia" - Hello / Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado (if you're male) / Obrigada (if you're female)" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o centro / a igreja?" - Where is the center / the church?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Alagoa Nova

Visit one of these nice places.

Town praça and main church

Capture everyday life, colonial facades, markets and portraits of local vendors in the town square and church forecourt—best light in the morning and late afternoon.

Hillside viewpoints

High points around town offer sweeping panoramas of patchwork farmland, misty mornings and sunsets—ideal for wide landscapes and golden-hour shots.

Waterfalls and rural streams

Small cascades and natural pools in the vicinity provide opportunities for nature photos, long-exposure water shots and intimate landscape scenes.

Coffee and fruit farms

Rows of coffee plants, fruit trees and rustic farm buildings make strong subjects for close-up and documentary-style photography, especially during harvest or flowering.

Festivals (Festas Juninas / Forró nights)

Colorful festas, dances and food stalls are vibrant photo subjects—capture costumes, dance movement and community celebrations (ask permission for portraits).

Culinary Guide

Food in Alagoa Nova

Alagoa Nova’s cuisine reflects northeastern Paraíba traditions: hearty, simple, and focused on local produce, coffee, beans, cassava and dairy. Expect homestyle cooking served in small restaurants and street stalls, with sweets and cakes influenced by rural kitchens. Coffee grown in the region and local fruit juices are highlights. Meals are flavorful, often peppered with regional spices and served in generous portions.

Alagoa Nova Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Buchada / Carne de sol

Sun-dried beef (carne de sol) and related northeastern preparations are common in local kitchens; small restaurants and family diners near farms often serve them with rice, beans, macaxeira (cassava) and fried banana.

Must-Try!

Bolo de rolo & regional cakes

Regional sweets and sponge-style cakes, often available at bakeries and local markets—perfect with the area’s strong coffee.

Feijão verde & vegetable stews

Seasonal bean stews and vegetable dishes prepared in home-style fashion; local markets and simple restaurants serve these alongside rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local feira (town market)

Weekly or daily markets where you’ll find fresh fruits, farm cheeses, pastries, coffee and savory snacks—try pastel, tapioca and small sweets sold by street vendors.

Street food stalls near the praça

Evening stalls often sell fried snacks, bolos (cakes) and small savory pastries—ideal for a casual bite while watching local life.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alagoa Nova sits in the Paraíba highlands (brejo), with a milder and more humid microclimate than the coastal lowlands. Expect warm days (often 22–30°C / 72–86°F) and cooler nights, especially in the southern winter months. Rainfall is seasonal with a wetter period typically in the autumn/winter window (varies by year), while other months are reasonably dry and pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Use polite greetings—handshakes are common in formal situations; friends and acquaintances may exchange one or two cheek kisses. A friendly ‘bom dia’ (good morning) or ‘boa tarde’ (good afternoon) goes a long way.

Language and politeness

Portuguese is the everyday language; attempting basic Portuguese phrases is appreciated. Be polite and patient—conversations are often warm and more relaxed than in big cities.

Dress and religious sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches or attending religious events. Festive clothing is welcomed at local celebrations, but respectful behavior is expected in sacred spaces.

Photographs and permission

Ask permission before taking close-up photos of people, especially vendors or during private family events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alagoa Nova is generally considered safe compared with larger urban centers, but basic precautions apply: watch for petty theft (keep valuables secure), avoid isolated areas at night, and use reputable drivers for late travel. In rural areas, roads may be narrow and poorly lit—drive cautiously after dark. Carry insect repellent to reduce risk from mosquito-borne illnesses and ensure vaccinations and travel insurance are in order.

Tipping in Alagoa Nova

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory in small-town venues; many restaurants add a 10% service charge on the bill—if it’s not included, leaving 5–10% for good service is common. For small services (porters, guides) a few BRL is customary.

Payment Methods

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely used, especially in markets, small restaurants and for local transport. Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger establishments; mobile PIX transfers are common for local sellers. ATMs may be limited—carry sufficient cash when exploring rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December–February)

Summer brings warmer daytime temperatures and generally drier conditions compared with the core rainy months—expect sunny days, great conditions for farm visits and outdoor photography, but also stronger sun so bring sun protection.

Autumn (March–May)

Transitional months can bring short rainy spells, greener landscapes and comfortable temperatures—good for waterfalls and avoiding peak heat.

Winter (June–August)

In this highland area winter is mild but nights can be cool; June is peak festival season (festas juninas), offering rich cultural experiences but slightly more visitors on festival dates.

Spring (September–November)

Spring sees warming temperatures and rejuvenated vegetation—ideal for hikes and birdwatching before the heaviest rains begin in some years.

Nightlife Guide

Alagoa Nova at Night

Nightlife in Alagoa Nova is low-key and community-centered: small bars, informal music nights and occasional live forró or sertanejo performances. The town’s biggest nightlife draws appear during festas juninas when open-air dances, bonfires and food stalls run late into the evening. For a wider variety of clubs, bars and restaurants, nearby larger towns and cities offer more options within an easy drive.

Hiking in Alagoa Nova

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Local hill ridge trails

Informal trails on nearby ridges provide panoramic views over the agricultural valleys—accessible from town with short drives and good for sunrise or sunset hikes.

Waterfall and river trail loops

Short hikes to nearby waterfalls and natural pools offer scenic routes and cooling swims; trails are rustic and best done with local guidance in the rainy season.

Serra da Borborema (regional routes)

Parts of the Borborema highlands span the region, offering more extensive treks and biodiversity—some routes lead to higher viewpoints and traditional rural settlements (arrange local guides for longer hikes).

Pico do Jabre & Pedra da Boca (day-trip options)

For more ambitious day trips, nearby state landmarks like Pico do Jabre and Pedra da Boca (in the broader Paraíba region) offer established trails, rock formations and panoramic scenery—these are best reached by car and often require entrance fees or park guidance.

Airports

How to reach Alagoa Nova by plane.

Campina Grande – Presidente João Suassuna Airport (CPV)

The closest regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for reaching the Paraíba highlands by road from the airport. Ground transport options include taxis and regional bus or private transfers.

João Pessoa – Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA)

Larger airport with more frequent domestic connections and some international flights; expect a longer drive to Alagoa Nova but more transport choices, car rental services and regional buses.

Recife – Guararapes International Airport (REC)

A major international airport in the region (further away) useful if combining visits to Pernambuco and Paraíba; offers many flight options but requires a longer road transfer to reach Alagoa Nova.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and easily walkable—most shops, cafes and public spaces are within a short stroll. However, attractions outside town (farms, waterfalls and viewpoints) require a car or arranged transport; sidewalks can be uneven and some streets are better navigated on foot during daylight.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural families and small farmers

A significant portion of the population works in agriculture, small-scale farming and local commerce; family-run farms and multi-generational households are common.

Young people and commuters

Many younger residents commute or migrate seasonally to larger cities for education and work, while still maintaining ties to family properties.

Local artisans and market vendors

Artisans, cooks and market vendors support the local cultural economy—many are skilled in food production, handicrafts and traditional practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The region follows Brazil’s passion for football; informal games and local clubs are common, and watching or joining a neighborhood match is a social activity.

Futsal and volleyball

Indoor sports like futsal and community volleyball are popular, especially among young people and in school programs.

Horseback riding and rodeo events

In rural areas, horseback riding is a practical pastime and rodeo-style events or equestrian activities appear during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic volumes in Alagoa Nova are low compared with larger cities; roads in town are calm but surrounding rural roads can be narrow, unpaved and winding. Public transportation options are limited—regional buses connect to nearby municipalities but schedules can be infrequent. Renting a car or arranging private transport is the most flexible way to explore the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alagoa Nova.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in small town restaurants; stick to salads, rice, beans, manioc-based dishes and market produce, and ask vendors for simpler preparations without fish or meat stock.

Vegan

Vegan meals may require asking for custom plates (rice, beans, cooked vegetables, cassava) and avoiding hidden dairy in some sweets and sauces; pack staples or snacks if you have strict needs.

Gluten-free

Cassava-based foods (tapioca, farinha de mandioca) are good gluten-free options, but confirm preparation methods at restaurants to avoid cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Alagoa Nova has basic healthcare facilities and clinics for primary care and minor emergencies. For serious medical treatment or hospital specialist services you will likely need to travel to a larger nearby city where full hospitals are located; consider travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and confirm your routine vaccinations before travel.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide