Things To Do
in Campos Novos
Campos Novos is a small city in Santa Catarina, Brazil, surrounded by rolling hills and forests that reflect its agricultural roots. The town blends rural charm with a friendly, laid-back atmosphere and serves as a gateway to the region’s natural beauty. Located on the edge of the Serra Geral plateau, it offers scenic viewpoints, clean lakes, and a mix of traditional and locally inspired cuisine.
Visitors will find welcoming locals, affordable dining, and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Campos Novos and settle into your hotel, enjoying the warm hospitality of this charming town. Take a stroll around the local parks to get a feel for the atmosphere and engage with the locals. A leisurely breakfast at a nearby café will set the tone for an exciting trip.
Explore the historical heart of Campos Novos, visiting the beautiful architecture in the town square and learning about its rich cultural history. Don't forget to stop by local artisan shops to pick up handcrafted souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Brazilian restaurant, sampling the local flavors.
As night falls, visit a popular local bar to enjoy live music and mingle with friendly locals. Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife, trying traditional snacks and beverages. Wind down the evening with a peaceful walk under the stars, admiring the tranquil surroundings.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Serra do Rio do Rastro for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. The fresh air and stunning landscapes will invigorate your spirits. Take your time to capture the beauty of nature with photographs that will last a lifetime.
Have a picnic lunch in the midst of nature, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the Brazilian wilderness. After lunch, embark on a guided nature tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, immersing yourself in the biodiversity of the region. It's a perfect opportunity to connect with the local environment and appreciate its beauty.
After a day of exploration, return to Campos Novos for a relaxing dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant that specializes in local dishes and enjoy the flavors of the region. Reflect on your adventure while enjoying a cup of Brazilian coffee or a dessert before heading back to your hotel.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
| 🧃Combo lunch | $6-10 |
| 🚌Public transport ride | $1-2 |
| 🧀Grocery staple (beans, rice, vegetables) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Affordability and good value for food and lodging
- Access to scenic outdoor activities and nature close by
- Authentic regional cuisine and markets
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Language may be a barrier in more rural spots
- Transport options outside the city center can be limited
- Some services and attractions may have seasonal hours
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu gostaria de pagar em dinheiro" - I would like to pay in cash
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Campos Novos
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm lakes and gentle hills provide reflective water scenes and colorful sunsets, ideal for landscape photography.
Historic streets and a traditional church offer classic architectural photography with atmospheric light.
Open fields and distant silhouettes of hills create strong wide-angle shots of life in the countryside.
Forest trails lead to small cascades and sparkling pools, perfect for nature and micro-video moments.
Food in Campos Novos
Campos Novos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal pine nuts boiled or roasted, commonly enjoyed on cold days with coffee or as part of hearty meals.
Must-Try!
Assorted grilled meats served with rice, beans, farofa, and vinaigrette; a staple in many local steakhouses.
Cheesy pão de queijo—crispy on the outside, fluffy inside—widely available for breakfast or snack.
A traditional cake with a crumb topping, reflecting Santa Catarina’s German-influenced baking culture.
Creamy or fried polenta paired with cheese or meat, a comforting regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, regional breads, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Weekly outdoor markets with seasonal fruits, vegetables, crafts, and street foods to sample on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; close friends may greet with a hug. Using polite titles (Senhor/Senhora) is appreciated in formal settings.
Be generally punctual for appointments; conversations tend to be warm and personal—small talk is common.
Public displays are generally acceptable but discreet; tipping etiquette varies by venue and service.
Safety
Tipping in Campos Novos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Brazil is appreciated but not mandatory; around 5-10% for good service in restaurants, higher in higher-end venues.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; some markets or small vendors may be cash-only or prefer mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional afternoon showers; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and take advantage of long daylight hours for outdoor activities.
Cooler, comfortable temperatures and increasingly scenic views as leaves change color; great for hiking and photography.
Milder daytime temperatures with cooler mornings and evenings; pine nut season (pinhão) in some areas and cozy meals indoors are common.
Pleasant warmth, flowering landscapes, and active birdlife; ideal for outdoor markets, walks, and scenic drives.
Campos Novos at Night
Hiking in Campos Novos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail with mixed terrain and rewarding views of the surrounding valleys.
Waterfall hike through woodland with opportunities for photography and a refreshing swim.
Lookout trail that leads to a panoramic overlook over the countryside and town.
Airports
How to reach Campos Novos by plane.
Main gateway for the region; about a few hours’ drive from Campos Novos; provides domestic and international connections.
Balanced regional hub with several domestic flights; access improves travel options to Campos Novos via road transfer.
Smaller regional airport within reach by road; useful for quicker intra-regional trips.
Regional airport offering additional flight options to the western part of Santa Catarina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents work in agriculture and related sectors, creating a strong rural community spirit.
Young residents and visiting students contribute to a youthful, energetic vibe in the city center.
A stable, seasoned population with a tradition of hospitality and local knowledge.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local matches and a strong community presence.
Common recreational activity in schools and community centers.
Indoor soccer played in gyms, especially popular among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campos Novos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for salads, beans, vegetables, and cheese-based dishes; many places can prepare vegetarian options with advance notice.