Things To Do
in Cacoal
Cacoal is a growing city in the western Brazilian state of Rondônia, set in the Amazonian lowlands. It blends modern commerce with a close-to-nature vibe, inviting visitors to explore markets, rivers, and leafy streets. The city serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding forests and rural communities.
The climate is hot and humid year-round, with a pronounced wet season and a drier stretch.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian pão de queijo paired with fresh coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Cacoal, admiring the charming colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Be sure to visit the Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora da Candelária, a stunning church that showcases the town's rich cultural heritage.
In the afternoon, enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can savor regional dishes like peixe assado (grilled fish) and feijão tropeiro (a traditional bean dish). Afterward, head to the Museu Histórico de Cacoal to learn more about the local history and the development of the region. Spend some time wandering through the nearby park, where you can relax by the fountains and enjoy the lush greenery.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local bar to unwind with a caipirinha, Brazil's famous cocktail. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories about your day while enjoying live music that often fills the air. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for some street food.
Set out early for a day trip to Parque Nacional de Pacaás Novos, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscapes of the Amazon rainforest. Begin your adventure with a guided hike through the park, where you can witness breathtaking waterfalls and diverse wildlife. Don't forget to take your camera to capture the amazing views and unique flora along the trails.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, listening to the sounds of birds and insects. Continue your adventure with a canoe trip on one of the park's tranquil rivers, giving you a chance to see the local fauna up close, including monkeys and exotic birds. The peaceful waterway is perfect for relaxing and absorbing the lush environment.
Return to Cacoal in the evening, where you can refresh yourself with a nice shower and dinner at a local restaurant. Try some delicious Amazonian cuisine, featuring fresh fish and exotic fruits. Share your day's adventures with fellow diners, relishing the flavors and stories that make Cacoal special.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi 3km ride | $3-6 |
| 🥤Local beer (0.5 liter) | $2-3 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Gateway to Amazonian nature and wildlife
- Compact size ideal for exploring on foot or by bike
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Brazilian cities
- Some services operate on regional schedules
- Hot and humid climate can be challenging for some travelers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Cacoal
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil riverside spot where the light paints the water and trees in warm tones at dawn.
Colorful stalls with fruit, handicrafts, and daily life—great for candid street photography.
Green spaces, lagoons, and walking paths offering natural light and framing opportunities.
Historic plaza edges, fountains and sunset silhouettes ideal for portraits.
Food in Cacoal
Cacoal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fish-flavored porridge served with rice; a comforting staple in riverside communities.
Must-Try!
A hot Amazonian soup with tucupi, jambú, and shrimp or dried fish, commonly found in regional eateries.
A fish stew with herbs and cassava flour; a popular choice near river communities.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh fruit, regional snacks, grilled fish, and casual street bites.
Street stalls around the city center serving quick meals, tropical fruits, and regional treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “bom dia”/“boa tarde” and a handshake; maintain polite contact and eye contact.
Light, casual clothing is typical; modest dress in religious sites; avoid loud behavior in formal settings.
Portuguese is the primary language; learning a few phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Cacoal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip is not mandatory; 5-10% is common if service charge is not included. Round up for small services or leave a small amount for attendants.
Cash (BRL) and cards are widely accepted; Pix and other instant payments are common for mobile transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated and carry a light rain jacket. Outdoor activities are best early in the day.
Transition to slightly drier weather with warm days and cooler nights; great for hiking and sunset photography.
Milder days but nights can be cooler; rainfall reduces a bit; comfortable for city strolls.
Warm and wet season begins again; lush foliage and active wildlife; plan early mornings for outdoor activities.
Cacoal at Night
Hiking in Cacoal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes through nearby forests with opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic viewpoints.
Short day hikes with scenic river scenery and easy terrain.
Airports
How to reach Cacoal by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights; connections to Cuiabá, Porto Velho, and other nearby cities.
Major gateway to western Amazon with national and some international connections.
Regional airport serving Rondônia; routes to Cuiabá and other regional hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of pardos (mixed ancestry), White Brazilians, and Indigenous communities; communities are generally welcoming to visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and casual play around town.
Commonly played in schools, clubs, and community centers.
Active by the rivers; fishing trips and canoeing are popular recreational activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cacoal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can accommodate vegetarian options; look for beans, rice, vegetables, and fresh salads. Ask for vegetarian on the menu or request substitutions such as queijo (cheese) or ovos (eggs).