Things To Do
in Canela

Spit-roasted young chicken often served with polenta, rice and salads; available at traditional churrascarias and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

Cheese and meat fondues are popular in cooler months; many restaurants offer multi-course fondue nights pairing cheese, meat and chocolate.

A legacy of Italian immigrants — creamy polenta topped with a slow-cooked meat sauce, found in local inns and simpler eateries.

A variety of grilled meats served rodízio-style at larger restaurants and special events — ask for local cuts and sausages.

Local artisan markets and weekend feiras sell cheeses, cured meats, homemade jams and freshly baked pastries — perfect for sampling regional flavors and buying souvenirs.

Small chocolate boutiques and cafés around town offer handmade truffles, hot chocolate and brigadeiros; try them warm on cooler days.

People are warm and use firm handshakes or two-cheek kisses among acquaintances; a friendly 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Dress is casual but neat; in restaurants and churches avoid overly beachy attire. Be respectful at natural sites — stick to trails and follow posted rules.

Portuguese is spoken everywhere; learning basic phrases is appreciated. Politeness and patience go far — service can be relaxed, and smiling and saying 'obrigado/obrigada' is good practice.

Respect gaucho and immigrant cultural expressions; photography of people is usually fine but ask permission for close portraits, especially at private properties or events.

A 10% service charge is common in restaurants and is often added to the bill; if not included, a 10% tip is appreciated. For taxis, rounding up or leaving small change is normal; for guides and drivers, 10%–15% for good service is customary. Housekeeping and porters typically receive a small tip.

Brazil uses the real (BRL). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants and shops; carry cash for markets, small vendors and rural stops. Contactless payments and Pix (instant bank transfer) are increasingly common. ATMs are available in town but may charge fees — withdraw enough cash in larger centers if planning remote excursions.

Warm to hot days (20–30°C / 68–86°F) with occasional afternoon showers; lively high season with outdoor cafés and easier hiking conditions. Bring sun protection and a light rain jacket.

Cooling temperatures and clearer skies; autumn foliage brings colorful scenery and comfortable conditions for sightseeing and walking.

Cool to cold temperatures (often 0–15°C / 32–59°F), with frost and occasional snowfall in rare years; ideal for fondue, cozy pousadas and winter festivals — pack warm layers.

Mild weather and blooming gardens (hydrangeas and ornamental plants), making it a beautiful time for photography and outdoor activities with fewer crowds.

A large portion of the population are descendants of German and Italian immigrants, reflected in architecture, cuisine and cultural events.

Traditional gaucho (Southern Brazilian ranching) culture influences festivals, cuisine and rural customs in the region.

Visitors from across Brazil and abroad swell the population in high season, with many retirees and second-home owners attracted to the mountain climate.

A diverse mix of Brazilian ethnic groups live and work in the area, with Portuguese as the primary language.

The most popular sport across Brazil — local teams, youth leagues and passionate fandom are common in the region.

Indoor soccer (futsal) and volleyball are widely practiced and popular among locals.

Given the terrain, trail running, mountain biking and hiking are popular activities among residents and visitors.

Horseback riding, rodeio events and gaucho cultural displays are part of regional rural life and festivals.

Vegetarian options exist but are less prominent; look for adaptations like mushroom risottos, pasta with vegetable sauces and salads. Inform staff in Portuguese ('sou vegetariano/vegetariana') and larger restaurants in tourist areas can usually adapt dishes.

Vegan choices are available in cafés and some modern bistros in high season, but plan ahead and carry snacks when exploring outside the center.

Smaller establishments may not always offer gluten-free menus — ask ('tem sem glúten?') and favor simple grilled dishes, salads and naturally gluten-free regional items.

Communicate allergies clearly in Portuguese (e.g., 'sou alérgico(a) a...') and consider using a translation card for complex restrictions.