Things To Do
in Catalão
Catalão is a mid-sized city in southeastern Goiás, Brazil, known for its agricultural surroundings and growing industrial and mining economy. The town blends a relaxed, small-city pace with lively local markets, traditional Goiás cuisine and periodic cultural events. Visitors will find a compact historic center, several green parks and scenic viewpoints over rolling hills.
Catalão is a practical base for exploring nearby countryside trails, waterfalls and rural communities while experiencing genuine interior-Brazil culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries and fresh coffee. Afterward, embark on a walking tour of the historic center, where you can admire colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t forget to visit the charming Praça Getúlio Vargas, a perfect spot for photos and people-watching.
For lunch, indulge in a typical Brazilian feijoada at a nearby restaurant, experiencing the rich flavors of the region. After your meal, explore the local artisan shops and markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Consider visiting the Museu Histórico de Catalão to learn about the city’s fascinating history and culture.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a casual dinner at a local churrascaria, where you can sample various grilled meats and traditional sides. After dinner, stroll through the illuminated streets of the city, taking in the lively atmosphere. End your day with a refreshing caipirinha at a nearby bar, mingling with locals and soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the stunning Parque Estadual da Serra de Caldas. Enjoy a guided nature walk, where you can observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Be sure to bring your camera as the scenic views of the mountains and valleys are breathtaking.
After a morning of exploration, take a break for a packed picnic lunch amidst the beautiful natural surroundings. Continue your adventure by hiking to one of the park’s viewpoints, where you can take in panoramic views and appreciate the tranquility of the area. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as capybaras and various bird species.
Return to Catalão and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a restaurant featuring local cuisine. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or visit a local bar to unwind and share your experiences from the day. Enjoy a peaceful night, reflecting on the beauty of nature you've encountered.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee / bakery snack | $1-3 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $1.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (local) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $35-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic interior-Brazil experience with friendly locals and local traditions
- Convenient base for countryside excursions, hiking and agritourism
- Affordable food, accommodation and services compared to big cities
- Good local markets and home-style cuisine showcasing Goiás specialties
- Limited international flight connections — requires travel via larger airports
- Fewer specialized services and nightlife options than state capitals
- Some natural attractions may be on private land or require guides to access
- "Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite" - Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado (male) / Obrigada (female)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado / a igreja / a rodoviária?" - Where is the market / the church / the bus station?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Catalão
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture colonial-style façades, everyday street life, market stalls and the parish church at golden hour; good for candid urban shots.
Lookouts around town offer panoramic shots of rolling hills and sunsets—ideal for wide landscape and golden-hour photography.
Colorful stalls, regional produce and food close-ups are great for documentary and food photography.
Green city parks and any nearby streams or small rivers provide nature scenes and birdwatching opportunities for telephoto shots.
Photograph red dirt roads, ranches, grazing cattle and agricultural activity for authentic countryside frames—early morning mist and sunset light are especially photogenic.
Food in Catalão
Catalão Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pie filled with shredded chicken, sausage, hearts of palm or cheese—comfort food often found at local bakeries and family-run restaurants.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with pequi (a native fruit with a distinctive aroma) and usually served with meat; a traditional Goiás specialty available at home-style restaurants.
Chicken stewed with okra, often served with rice and polenta or cornmeal—a regional comfort dish in the central-west.
Sweets like doce de leite and locally produced Minas-style cheese sold in markets and bakeries across the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market is ideal for fresh fruit, cheeses, sweets and quick snacks—try pão de queijo, freshly brewed coffee and regional sweets from small vendors.
Look for pastel, coxinha and other common Brazilian snacks at neighborhood bars and street stalls; evening botecos serve petiscos (small plates) and cold beer.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or light cheek kiss among acquaintances; use 'bom dia' / 'boa tarde' / 'boa noite' for polite greetings. Being friendly, polite and taking time to chat helps build rapport.
Show respect to older people and local leaders; use formal titles like 'senhor' and 'senhora' when appropriate until told otherwise.
Casual clothing is normal, but dress more conservatively for church visits or formal events. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior in residential areas, especially at night.
Ask permission before photographing people, private properties or businesses; many locals are open to photos if asked politely.
Safety
Tipping in Catalão
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% service charge is common in restaurants and may be included on the bill; if not included, leaving 5–10% is appreciated but not compulsory. Tip taxi drivers by rounding up for short rides; tip porters and hotel staff a small amount (a few reais) for assistance.
Credit and debit cards are accepted at many restaurants, shops and supermarkets in town, but smaller vendors, markets and street stalls prefer cash. ATMs are available, but carry some cash (reais) for remote purchases or small vendors; contactless and mobile payments are growing but not universal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms—expect heavy but usually short-lived rain. Bring a lightweight rain jacket, waterproof shoes for trails and plan outdoor activities for the morning to avoid storms.
Milder days and cooler nights with much less rain—this is the most comfortable period for hiking and outdoor exploration. Bring a light jacket for evenings and expect clearer skies ideal for photography.
Local festas, agricultural fairs and rodeios often occur at various times of year and draw crowds—book accommodation early and expect busier streets and lively nightlife during these events.
Catalão at Night
Hiking in Catalão
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Local hills and ridgelines offer short to moderate hikes with panoramic views—ideal for sunrise or sunset photography. Trails can be informal, so go with a local guide or ask at the tourist office for recommended routes.
Small waterfalls and swimming holes are scattered in the surrounding countryside; many are accessible via farm roads or guided excursions—verify access and permissions with landowners.
Gentle loops through farmland and pastures provide easy walking or cycling opportunities and a chance to experience rural Goiás landscapes and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Catalão by plane.
A small regional airfield that handles general aviation and occasional charter flights—limited commercial service; useful for private or chartered access if available.
The nearest major airport with regular domestic flights and car hire options; reachable by bus or car (approximately a few hours by road). Good option for onward connections to larger cities.
A regional airport in Minas Gerais with domestic flights and road connections to Catalão; often closer than other major hubs depending on your origin.
A large international airport offering many domestic and international connections; longer drive but helpful for international travelers combining flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents work in farming, cattle ranching and local industry including mining and processing—this shapes local rhythms and community life.
Many family-run businesses, shops and services provide the town’s social and economic backbone; local markets and trades remain important.
Younger residents and students contribute to cultural life, small-event scenes and the evolving local economy; some travel to larger cities for university or work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport—local amateur matches and youth leagues are popular and community-focused; watching a local game offers insight into daily life.
Rodeio and country music culture are significant in Goiás; agricultural fairs and rodeo events draw visitors and reflect regional traditions.
Indoor soccer (futsal), volleyball and community-level competitions are common recreational activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Catalão.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but not always extensive; typical staples like rice, beans, salads and cheese dishes are easy to find. Ask for 'sem carne' (without meat) and specify no chicken or sausage—many home-style restaurants will accommodate with prior notice.
Vegan choices are more limited outside larger cities—carry snacks and communicate allergies in Portuguese ('sou alérgico(a) a ...'). Use apps to find restaurants in bigger nearby cities if you need more options.
Gluten-free requests can be handled at modern restaurants but are less common in traditional spots—plain rice, beans and grilled meats are safe bets; double-check sauces and breading.