Things To Do
in Canoinhas

Canoinhas is a mid-sized city in the highlands of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil, known for its surrounding araucaria and pine forests and a strong tradition of yerba-mate culture. The town blends Polish, German and Italian immigrant heritage with rural Brazilian life, reflected in local festivals, food and architecture. Its landscape features rolling hills, rivers and nearby waterfalls that make it a good base for nature outings and photography.

Visitors will find a relaxed pace of life, small museums and local markets that showcase artisanal products and regional cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Canoinhas, sampling traditional Brazilian pastries. Afterward, wander through the historic streets, taking in the charming colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t forget to visit the Municipal Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a popular local restaurant, savoring dishes made from fresh, regional ingredients. Post-lunch, stroll through the picturesque Praça Getúlio Vargas, where you can relax by the fountains and watch the world go by. Visit local artisan shops and boutiques, picking up handmade crafts and souvenirs to take home.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a cozy bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in traditional Brazilian barbecue. After your meal, take a scenic walk along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere as the stars begin to twinkle. End your evening at a local bar, enjoying live music and mingling with friendly locals.

day 2
Nature Walks in the Parque Natural Municipal
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to Parque Natural Municipal. Enjoy a guided nature walk through the lush trails, where you can spot diverse flora and fauna native to the region. Breathe in the fresh air and feel invigorated by the natural beauty surrounding you.

afternoon
:

After your morning hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch nestled among the trees, taking in the sounds of nature all around you. Spend the afternoon exploring the park further, perhaps taking a dip in one of the refreshing natural pools. Capture the stunning landscapes with your camera, as the park offers breathtaking views at every turn.

evening
:

Return to Canoinhas for a relaxed dinner at a local steakhouse, where you can enjoy the flavors of the region. After dinner, consider taking a leisurely stroll through the town, allowing the cool evening breeze to envelop you. Conclude your day by unwinding at a nearby café, sipping on a delicious cup of Brazilian coffee.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee and pastry at a café$2-5
🚕Short taxi ride$2-8
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$40-80
🚌Intercity bus ticket (regional)$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close access to araucaria forests, waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
  • Strong regional culture with mate tradition and tasty local food.
  • Relaxed pace of life ideal for nature-focused and rural tourism.
  • Lower costs compared with coastal tourist hubs; authentic local experiences.
  • Limited nightlife and fewer tourist amenities compared with big cities.
  • Public transport and guide services can be sparse for remote trails.
  • Fewer specialized dining options for strict dietary restrictions.
  • Some attractions and information may not be well signposted for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you (male / female speaker)
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Sou vegetariano(a)" - I am vegetarian

Places to Visit in Canoinhas

Visit one of these nice places.

Town center and main church

Picturesque streets, colonial-style buildings and the central square make for classic urban shots, especially in golden hour.

Viewpoints over the valleys

Look for local mirantes (viewpoints) that offer sweeping panoramas of araucaria forests, hills and patchwork farmland — ideal at sunrise or sunset.

Waterfalls and river margins

Nearby waterfalls and clear river stretches produce long-exposure and nature compositions; bring waterproof protection and sturdy shoes.

Yerba-mate plantations and drying houses

Capture the agricultural side of the region: rows of cultivation, drying leaves and traditional mate rituals provide cultural context photos.

Markets and food stalls

Vibrant market scenes with produce, cured meats and baked goods are great for close-up and street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Canoinhas

Canoinhas’ cuisine reflects the southern Brazilian mix of gaucho barbecue culture and European immigrant influences: expect churrasco, polenta, hearty stews, fresh dairy products and strong mate (chimarrão). Seasonal specialties such as pinhão (Araucaria seeds) appear in winter, and local markets offer artisanal cheeses, cured meats and baked goods.

Canoinhas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chimarrão (mate)

A hot, bitter infusion of yerba-mate, traditionally shared from a gourd; ubiquitous in southern Brazil and a cultural ritual. Try it in cafés or with locals.

Must-Try!

Churrasco and grilled meats

Social and culinary staple — expect various cuts of beef, pork and sausages. Available at churrascarias and family restaurants.

Pinhão

Roasted seeds of the Araucaria tree eaten in autumn and winter; often sold at markets and street stalls when in season.

Polenta and stews (influência italiana)

Hearty polenta often served with meat stews or sauces — common in home-style eateries and traditional restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal / Central market

Local market where you can sample cheeses, cured sausages, baked goods and seasonal pinhão; good place to interact with producers and buy regional products.

Street stalls and weekend food stands

Look for vendors selling roasted pinhão (in season), pastel, salgados and other Brazilian snacks around plazas and near events.

Climate Guide

Weather

Canoinhas has a temperate highland climate with warm, humid summers and cool winters. Rain is reasonably well distributed through the year, with summer afternoons prone to short, intense showers or storms. Winter nights can be chilly and occasionally approach freezing in the highest areas; spring and autumn are transitional and comfortable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or one light kiss on the cheek (between acquaintances) is common; use a polite greeting like “bom dia” (good morning) or “boa tarde” (good afternoon).

Social behavior

Be warm and polite; Brazilians are generally open and conversational. Avoid loud arguments in public; respect family-centered and religious events.

Respecting food customs

Accept offers of chimarrão or food as a sign of hospitality, and try a small portion even if you’re cautious — decline politely if necessary.

Dress and modesty

Casual attire is fine in town; dress more conservatively in religious sites and formal events. Comfortable shoes are recommended for uneven streets and trails.

Safety Guide

Safety

Canoinhas is generally safe for visitors, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur as in any town. Take basic precautions: avoid showing large amounts of cash or valuables, use hotel safes, keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places, and avoid poorly lit streets at night. If hiking, inform someone of your route, carry water and a charged phone, and check local weather and trail conditions.

Tipping in Canoinhas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 10% service charge is commonly added to restaurant bills; if not included, a 10% tip is appreciated for good service. For taxis, rounding up or adding small change is normal; tip porters and hotel staff small amounts for assistance.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger stores and restaurants; cash (Brazilian real) is useful for markets, small vendors and rural areas. ATMs are available in town but carry some cash when visiting remote sites.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with afternoon showers possible. Good season for river visits, waterfall flow and outdoor activities; bring sun protection and lightweight rain gear.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and clearer skies; forests change subtly and pinhão season begins toward late autumn. Comfortable for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cool to cold nights — southern Brazil highlands can be quite chilly and occasionally frosty. Pinhão is at peak season, and clear winter days are excellent for landscape photos; pack warm layers.

Spring

Warming temperatures and blooming vegetation. Expect variable weather with more green landscapes and active birdlife; good for nature walks and fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Canoinhas at Night

Nightlife in Canoinhas is low-key compared to big cities: expect neighborhood bars, live acoustic or sertanejo music at local pubs, and occasional cultural events or street festivities on weekends. There are a few clubs or late-night venues that attract a younger crowd, but most visitors will enjoy relaxed dinners, live music and social drinks rather than rowdy nightlife.

Hiking in Canoinhas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Local Araucaria Forest Trails

Short to moderate trails through native araucaria and pine stands; excellent for birdwatching and photography, often accessible from rural roadheads.

Riverside and Waterfall Circuits

Routes that link small waterfalls and river pools; best in dry weather and suitable for half-day excursions and picnic stops.

Scenic Ridge Viewpoints

Hikes to nearby ridgelines and mirantes that reward visitors with panoramic views of valleys and farmland; ideal for sunrise or sunset sessions.

Airports

How to reach Canoinhas by plane.

Joinville – Lauro Carneiro de Loyola Airport (JOIN)

One of the closest regional airports serving northern Santa Catarina; from there you can rent a car or take ground transport to reach Canoinhas.

Navegantes – Ministro Victor Konder Airport (NVT)

A regional airport with domestic connections; several ground transport options and car rentals provide access to inland destinations.

Curitiba – Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB)

Major airport in the neighboring state of Paraná with broader flight options; longer drive but useful for international connections and more flight choices.

Florianópolis – Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN)

Serves the state capital and coastal region; an option if combining a coastal visit with inland highlands, accessible by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot, with sidewalks and plazas that invite strolling. However, many natural attractions and viewpoints are outside the urban core and require a car or local transport; some neighborhoods are hilly and not ideal for long pedestrian treks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

European-descended communities

Significant population with Polish, German and Italian ancestry that influences local culture, festivals and cuisine.

Mixed and Afro-Brazilian residents

Part of the diverse Brazilian demographic fabric, contributing to cultural and social life in the town.

Rural farming communities

Surrounding countryside populated by small farmers and agribusiness workers involved in yerba-mate, dairy and timber production.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport regionally and nationally — local amateur matches and futsal are common community activities.

Futsal and volleyball

Indoor sports widely practiced in schools and clubs; community leagues and school tournaments are frequent.

Trail running and mountain biking

Growing in popularity thanks to the hilly terrain and forest tracks that attract outdoor enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Canoinhas is generally light compared to larger urban areas, though peak commute times can cause modest congestion on main avenues. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses and intercity bus links; scheduling can be infrequent for rural routes, so renting a car is often the most convenient way to explore surrounding natural attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Canoinhas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available but limited compared to bigger Brazilian cities. Ask for vegetable sides, polenta, salads and egg-based dishes; vegetarian restaurants are rare, so communicate needs clearly and consider self-catering with market produce.

Vegan

Vegan choices may be limited; focus on salads, rice, beans, grilled vegetables and breads. Bring snacks and check labels at markets; many smaller eateries can adapt dishes if asked.

Gluten-free

Gluten-free options exist but cross-contamination is common in local bakeries. Explain dietary restrictions in Portuguese (e.g., “Sou celíaco/a” or “Tenho intolerância ao glúten”) and prefer simple rice-and-bean meals and grilled meats or vegetable dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Canoinhas has municipal health clinics and at least one local hospital capable of treating common ailments and minor emergencies. For specialized care, serious trauma or advanced medical services, patients are typically referred to larger hospitals in regional centers such as Joinville or Chapecó. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended for travelers coming from abroad.

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Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

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