Things To Do
in Calçado

Sun-dried salted beef, typically served with macaxeira (cassava), arroz, and beans; often found at local eateries and family-run restaurants.

Must-Try!

Cornmeal cakes sold at bakeries and street stalls—great with morning coffee and widely available in town.

A cassava-based pancake filled with sweet or savory ingredients; commonly made by street vendors and small cafés.

A hearty rice-and-meat dish adapted locally, served at family-style meals and local restaurants on weekends.

A small market where producers sell fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses and baked goods; try local fruits, cakes and freshly prepared tapioca.

Look for pastel, coxinha-like snacks and bolos sold in the afternoons and evenings; an easy way to taste everyday flavors on a budget.

People are warm and informal: a handshake or a light cheek kiss among friends is common; using polite greetings (Bom dia, Boa tarde) is appreciated.

Show respect in churches and during religious festivals—dress modestly for services and be mindful when photographing ceremonies.

Small-town life values friendliness—brief conversation, asking about family or local news helps build rapport; always be courteous and patient.

Ask before photographing people or private property; many locals are happy to be photographed but prefer to be asked first.

A 10% service charge is sometimes added at restaurants; if it isn’t, leaving a small tip (5–10%) is appreciated but not mandatory. For taxis, round up the fare; for small vendors and street food tipping is uncommon but rounding up is polite.

Cash (Brazilian real, BRL) is king in small towns—carry small notes for markets and buses. Credit/debit cards are accepted in some restaurants and shops but not everywhere; ATMs are available in nearby larger towns, so plan accordingly. Mobile payment apps are less common in very small vendors.

Hotter temperatures and sun—expect dry periods and warm nights; lightweight clothing, sun protection and plenty of water are recommended. Festivals and outdoor social life increase during holidays.

Transition from rainy season to drier months; afternoons may be humid with occasional showers early in the season. Good time for lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Milder temperatures with cooler nights compared with coastal areas—ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, but bring a light jacket for evenings. This is part of the region’s drier season.

Warming up and becoming drier; flowers and planting activity make the countryside colorful. Road conditions improve after the rains, and visibility for photography is excellent.

Vegetarian options are limited but available—look for tapioca with cheese and vegetables, bean stews, rice and salads; speaking Portuguese helps to ask cooks to adapt dishes.

Vegan choices require some effort—beans, rice, couscous and fruit are commonly available, but clarify ingredients (milk, cheese or animal broth) and carry snacks for flexibility.

Cassava-based items (tapioca, farinha de mandioca) are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur in small kitchens; explain restrictions clearly in Portuguese if possible.

Bring allergy cards in Portuguese for serious allergies; smaller establishments may not understand complex dietary needs.