Things To Do
in Arujá
Arujá is a tranquil municipality in the São Paulo state, part of the Guarulhos metro area, set amid green hills and streams. The town offers a friendly, small-town atmosphere with easy access to both countryside and city amenities. Visitors can use Arujá as a relaxed base to explore Campos de Serra and nearby markets, farms, and nature spots.
The region showcases Brazilian hospitality, simple cuisine, and a pace of life that blends rural charm with urban proximity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Praça do Coreto, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial-style architecture, visiting historical landmarks such as the Igreja Matriz de Arujá. Don’t forget to capture some photos of the beautiful murals and sculptures that adorn the area.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the artisan shops and boutiques that showcase handmade crafts and souvenirs unique to Arujá. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes such as feijoada or pão de queijo. After your meal, spend some time at the nearby Parque do Lago, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the natural beauty.
As the sun sets, head to a local bar or restaurant for a taste of Brazilian nightlife, where you can enjoy live music and delicious cocktails. Try the local caipirinha while mingling with locals and fellow travelers, soaking in the lively atmosphere. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the streets, taking in the twinkling lights and vibrant energy of the historic center.
Begin your day with an invigorating walk at the Parque Natural Municipal de Arujá, where you can explore the lush trails surrounded by native flora and fauna. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the diverse bird species that inhabit the park, as you may spot colorful toucans and other exotic birds. Enjoy a packed breakfast picnic amidst nature, listening to the soothing sounds of the forest.
Continue your nature exploration with a guided tour that delves deeper into the ecological significance of the park, learning about the conservation efforts in place. Spend some time at the observation points to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, relax at the park’s picnic areas, enjoying your lunch while surrounded by the sounds of nature.
As evening approaches, make your way back to Arujá and visit a local restaurant known for its fresh fish dishes, where you can experience the region's culinary offerings. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while sharing stories with fellow travelers and locals. After dinner, stroll through the nearby plazas, enjoying the gentle evening breeze and the peaceful atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚌Local transit (single ride) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, safe small-town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Close to Guarulhos and major city amenities while preserving rural charm
- Limited high-energy nightlife and large-scale attractions
- Fewer international dining options compared to bigger cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia / Boa tarde" - Good morning / Good afternoon
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Arujá
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic church setting with a classic Brazilian plaza vibe, offering opportunities for architectural detail shots and candid street scenes.
A leafy town square ideal for portrait shots, sunsets, and everyday life against a backdrop of local storefronts.
A waterfront or park area where the water, trees, and sky converge for tranquil landscape photography.
Narrow streets with rustic façades and subtle color accents—great for street photography and architectural textures.
Food in Arujá
Arujá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic hearty stew commonly found in traditional Brazilian restaurants; often served with rice, collard greens, and farofa.
Must-Try!
A cassava-based side served with barbecued or roasted meat, a comforting staple in many Brazilian rural eateries.
Rice and beans with roasted or grilled meat, a staple combo found in many casual Brazilian homes and eateries.
Small cheese bread rolls, a popular snack or breakfast option throughout Arujá and the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, regional snacks, and everyday goods; great for trying small bites and buying ingredients for a home-cooked meal.
Casual spots offering pastel, coxinha, and other fried snacks; ideal for a quick, inexpensive bite while exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia', 'boa tarde', or 'boa noite.' Handshakes are common; address people with 'senhor' or 'senhora' as a sign of respect.
Respect religious sites and modest behavior in churches and cemeteries; remove hats when entering places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Arujá
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a service charge is sometimes included in larger restaurants. If not, a tip of around 10% is appreciated in casual settings; small cash tips are common in informal establishments.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns and markets; cash is handy for smaller vendors and street foods. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, carry a light rain jacket, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Mild to cooler evenings with lower humidity. Layers are helpful for cooler mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures.
Arujá at Night
Hiking in Arujá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic trails through Atlantic Forest remnants offering chance to observe wildlife and native flora.
Gentle climbs with rewarding viewpoints over the valley and town—great for panoramic photography.
Airports
How to reach Arujá by plane.
Major international airport located about 25-40 km from Arujá; well-connected by road and rail to the São Paulo region.
Public airport in São Paulo city area, closer to central city access; primarily domestic flights and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with safe neighborhoods, parks, and schools.
Residents who travel to nearby Guarulhos or São Paulo for work, benefiting from proximity to larger cities.
People involved in small crafts, markets, and rural production, contributing to local culture and food.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect local leagues and casual games in parks and school fields.
Traditional Brazilian martial art form practiced in some community centers and cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arujá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes centered on rice, beans, vegetables, cassava, and salads. Ask for 'sem carne' (no meat) or 'sem bacom' (no bacon) and request dishes prepared separately to avoid cross-contamination.