Things To Do
in Capão do Leão

Wide lagoon vistas at sunrise and sunset provide dramatic water-and-sky compositions; fishing boats, reed beds and migrating birds are photographic highlights.

Expansive agricultural landscapes, reflective paddies in harvest season and gaucho ranches offer classic southern Brazil rural scenes.

Simple but photogenic streets, municipal buildings and local churches capture daily life and architectural details of a small gaucho town.

Nearby marshes and ponds attract waterfowl and waders — bring a telephoto lens and a tripod for wildlife photography.

Grilled beef, pork and sausages prepared over wood or charcoal; look for local churrascarias or family-run barbecue joints to experience traditional cuts and accompaniments.

Must-Try!

A hearty rice-and-meat dish historically made by travelers; you’ll find it in local homes and some restaurants as a comforting regional specialty.

Hot mate served in a gourd and sipped through a metal straw; an emblematic social ritual among gauchos and locals, offered to guests and friends.

A variety of convent-origin sweets — cakes, puddings and confections — available at pastry shops and bakeries in nearby Pelotas and at local vendors.

Small municipal markets and street stalls sell fresh produce, cheeses and homemade snacks; try savory pastries (pastéis), empadas and regional sweets at market stalls.

A short drive away in Pelotas, this market offers a wider selection of seafood, regional products and pastries — an excellent spot for tasting local flavors.

Friendly greetings and physical warmth are common — a handshake or one-to-two cheek kisses (among acquaintances) are typical. Use titles and surnames in formal situations until invited to use first names.

Chimarrão is commonly shared; accept politely if offered and follow the host’s lead for how long to sip before returning the gourd. Don’t stir the straw (bomba) once the host has prepared it.

Show deference to older people and community rituals; ask permission before photographing individuals, farmsteads or private property.

Dress is generally casual and practical; for church visits or more formal settings, opt for modest, tidy attire.

In restaurants a 10% service charge is common but not always included; if service is good, 10% is normal. Taxi drivers are usually given a small round-up tip; for guides and independent drivers, a modest tip is appreciated. Household and hotel staff may receive small tips for assistance.

Brazil uses the real (BRL) as currency; cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted in towns and Pelotas, but small shops, markets and rural vendors often prefer cash. Carry some cash for markets, buses and remote purchases; contactless payment and PIX (instant transfer) are popular in urban areas.

(December–February) Warm to hot and often humid; daytime temps comfortable for outdoor activities, but occasional heavy afternoon thunderstorms are common. Dress light, use sun protection and plan outdoor mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat.

March–May brings milder weather with pleasant days and cooler evenings; foliage changes are subtle compared to temperate zones, and outdoor activities are comfortable.

June–August is cooler and drier; nights can be chilly with occasional frost in rural areas. Pack layers — mornings and evenings can be brisk while afternoons may be pleasantly mild.

September–November is variable with warming temperatures, blossoming vegetation and some rain. It's a good time for birding and seeing fields come back to life after winter.