Things To Do
in Alcântaras

Alcântaras is a charming town located in the northeastern region of Brazil, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Surrounded by lush hills and rivers, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Brazilian life. The town is famous for its colonial architecture and vibrant local festivals.

With a warm climate and friendly locals, Alcântaras is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic city center, where you can admire the colonial architecture and visit the local church, Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset view at the Mirante do Alto, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike to the nearby waterfalls, known for their crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic lunch by the water, followed by a visit to a local artisan workshop to learn about traditional crafts.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a local steakhouse, sampling regional dishes, and enjoy some live music at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Cup of coffee$2
🚌Public transport fare$1
🍺Local beer$3
🏨Night in a budget hotel$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and authentic experiences
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transport options may be limited
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Alcântaras

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz

This historic church features stunning architecture and is a perfect backdrop for photos.

Mirante do Alto

A viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the sunset over the hills, ideal for landscape photography.

Cascata do Salto

A beautiful waterfall surrounded by nature, perfect for capturing the essence of Alcântaras.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alcântaras

Alcântaras boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects its cultural heritage, making it a haven for food lovers.

Alcântaras Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carne de Sol

A traditional sun-dried beef dish often served with sides like beans and rice.

Must-Try!

Baião de Dois

A delicious combination of rice and beans cooked with spices and sometimes served with meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

The local market where you can find fresh produce, regional delicacies, and handmade goods.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling snacks like tapioca and acarajé, a popular black-eyed pea fritter.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alcântaras experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. Summers can be quite hot, averaging around 30°C (86°F), with occasional rain showers. Winters are milder, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The rainy season typically occurs between December and March, while the dry season runs from April to November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A warm greeting is common; a handshake or a friendly hug is typical when meeting locals.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and casual attire is acceptable in most other places.

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and community events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alcântaras is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night and keep valuables secured. It's also wise to stay informed about local conditions and follow any advice from residents or local authorities.

Tipping in Alcântaras

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants, although it's not always required.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also take credit cards; it's recommended to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain; it's a great time for outdoor activities.

Autumn

Temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the town and nature.

Winter

Cooler temperatures are common, perfect for enjoying local festivities and cultural events.

Spring

A vibrant season with blooming flowers; great for photography and outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Alcântaras at Night

Alcântaras has a lively nightlife scene that revolves around local bars and cultural events. Many places feature live music, particularly traditional Brazilian genres like forró and sertanejo. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with locals often welcoming visitors to join in the festivities. While the nightlife may not be as bustling as in larger cities, it offers a unique chance to experience authentic Brazilian culture.

Hiking in Alcântaras

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Cachoeira

A scenic trail leading to picturesque waterfalls, ideal for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Caminho do Alto

This more challenging trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is great for those seeking adventure.

Airports

How to reach Alcântaras by plane.

Jericoacoara Airport

Located approximately 200 km from Alcântaras, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights, making it the closest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alcântaras is quite walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. The town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and the streets are generally safe and accessible. However, some areas may have uneven surfaces, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents are engaged in agriculture, contributing to the town's economy and cultural traditions.

Artisans

A significant number of locals are artisans, creating traditional crafts and artworks that reflect the region's heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Alcântaras, with local teams and enthusiastic fans supporting matches.

Capoeira

This traditional Brazilian martial art combines elements of dance and music, and is practiced widely in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Alcântaras is generally light, with most locals using bicycles or walking to navigate the town. Public transportation options are limited, but taxis and ride-sharing services are available for longer distances. Visitors should be cautious when driving, as roads may not always be well maintained.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alcântaras.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's recommended to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, so it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Alcântaras is basic, with a few local clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious medical issues, residents often travel to larger cities like Sobral. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facilities.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide