Things To Do
in Candelária

Candelária is a charming municipality in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Pampas, it boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for exploring its historical sites and natural beauty. The local community is friendly, and visitors can experience a blend of traditional gaucho culture and modern Brazilian life.

With various outdoor activities and local festivities, Candelária offers a unique glimpse into Brazilian rural life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Historical Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of St. Benedict, a stunning example of local architecture, before exploring the nearby historical museum.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the town center, visiting local artisan shops and enjoying a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local restaurant.

evening
:

End your day by attending a local folk dance performance, immersing yourself in the regional culture.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Morro do Candeal, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the local parks and gardens, perfect for relaxation and picnics.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a dinner at a steakhouse famous for its churrasco, a traditional Brazilian barbecue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$8
🚌Local Bus Ticket$1
🏨Hotel Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Candelária

Visit one of these nice places.

Morro do Candeal

A hill offering panoramic views of the entire region, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes at sunrise or sunset.

Church of St. Benedict

The beautiful architecture of this historic church provides a great backdrop for photographs.

Parque da Lagoa

A serene park with a lovely lake, ideal for nature photography, especially during blooming seasons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Candelária

Candelária offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Gaucho flavors with Brazilian staples. Visitors can indulge in a variety of local dishes, street food, and dining establishments that highlight the region's unique cuisine.

Candelária Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco

A traditional Brazilian barbecue, featuring various cuts of meat cooked on a grill, often served with sides like rice, beans, and farofa.

Must-Try!

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread rolls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for a snack or breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Municipal

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and homemade goods, ideal for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Candelária has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters. The summer months can see temperatures rise above 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically occurring in late summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time; friends often greet with a hug.

Dress Code

Casual clothing is acceptable, but dressing neatly is appreciated, especially in restaurants and shops.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is generally acceptable, but it's best to inform others if you will be significantly delayed.

Safety Guide

Safety

Candelária is generally a safe destination, but like any travel location, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious in less populated areas, especially at night. It's recommended to use registered taxis or rideshare services for transportation after dark.

Tipping in Candelária

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, although this may be included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild weather with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures, occasional frost, but still suitable for exploring the town and enjoying cultural events.

Spring (September - November)

A season of renewal, with blooming flowers and mild weather, great for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Candelária at Night

Candelária has a vibrant nightlife scene with several bars and clubs that offer live music, particularly samba and traditional Brazilian music. Locals enjoy socializing in these venues, where you can experience the lively rhythms and flavors of Brazil. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places stay open late into the night, providing a great opportunity to mingle and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Candelária

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Candeal

A scenic hiking trail that leads to the summit of Morro do Candeal, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Caminho da Lagoa

This trail winds around local lakes and wetlands, ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Candelária by plane.

Santa Maria Airport (SMR)

Located approximately 50 kilometers from Candelária, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest access point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Candelária is quite walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a compact area. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the town's small size makes it easy to explore on foot. However, some rural areas may have limited pedestrian paths, so it's best to plan routes accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Gaucho Culture

The local population is heavily influenced by Gaucho traditions, which embody the rural lifestyle and values of the region.

Immigrant Communities

Candelária has a diverse demographic, including descendants of European immigrants, particularly Germans and Italians, contributing to the area's cultural richness.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Candelária, with many local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Rodeo

Rodeo events are popular in the region, celebrating Gaucho culture and attracting participants and spectators alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Candelária are generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available, primarily through buses that connect various parts of the town, although service may be less frequent on weekends and holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Candelária.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple in the region, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and sides.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited, but some local dishes like rice and beans are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

The healthcare system in Candelária includes public and private facilities. While public hospitals provide essential services, private clinics and hospitals offer quicker access and better amenities. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers health services while abroad.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide