Things To Do
in Central
Central, Brazil sits inland in Bahia, blending rolling hills and river valleys with a burgeoning arts scene. Its warm climate and rich Afro-Brazilian heritage give life to lively festivals and markets. The landscape ranges from cacao and fruit plantations to scenic viewpoints along the river.
Visitors discover friendly communities, craft workshops, and a slow-paced rhythm that invites exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Brasília and check into your hotel. Take some time to freshen up and get oriented in this architecturally-rich capital city. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian pastries.
Explore the iconic modernist buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer, such as the National Congress and the Cathedral of Brasília. Visit the JK Memorial to learn about the life of Juscelino Kubitschek, the founder of Brasília. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant offering regional cuisine.
As the sun sets, stroll through the beautiful parks surrounding the city, such as Parque da Cidade. Enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant, sampling dishes like feijoada and caipirinhas. End the evening with a leisurely walk around the well-lit Esplanada dos Ministérios.
Head to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park early in the morning, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, embark on a guided trek to discover breathtaking waterfalls and unique rock formations. Capture the morning light over the scenic vistas as you breathe in the pristine air.
After a morning of hiking, have lunch at a local eatery near the park entrance, enjoying fresh, organic meals that showcase local ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting spectacular waterfalls like Santa Bárbara, where you can take a refreshing dip. Take a moment to relax and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you.
As dusk falls, set up camp at a nearby lodge or camping area. Enjoy an evening under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature, while savoring a traditional Brazilian barbecue. Share stories with fellow travelers around the campfire, embracing the spirit of the wilderness.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi 2-5 km | $3-6 |
| 🧺Groceries and fresh produce | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming communities and rich cultural experiences
- Proximity to rivers and nature with easy day trips
- Limited high-end dining options compared to coastal capitals
- Occasional travel distances between attractions
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu sou turista" - I am a tourist
- "Saúde" - Cheers / health
Places to Visit in Central
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the river valley and town rooftops.
Historic bridge with reflections at dawn and moody sunsets.
Impressive cathedral with light-filled interiors and architectural details.
Bustling city square framed by colonial façades and street performances.
Nearby waterfall and canyon ideal for landscape shots and wildlife.
Food in Central
Central Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Deep-fried black-eyed pea croquettes traditionally served with spicy fillings; inland markets offer adapted versions.
Must-Try!
A fish or seafood stew cooked with coconut milk and dendê oil, sometimes adapted locally for available ingredients.
Creamy coconut and peanut mash typically served with moqueca or as a side.
Grilled cheese skewers, a popular casual snack across Brazil.
Toasted manioc flour with palm oil, a flavorful accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market hall with produce stalls, prepared foods, and daily rhythms of city life.
Evening street market offering grilled skewers, fresh sweets, and juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello like bom dia/boa tarde; a handshake or cheek kiss is common among close acquaintances.
Dress modestly in religious sites and during community events; ask before taking photos of people or performances.
Be reasonably punctual for social visits; plans can be flexible in informal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Central
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving around 5-10% for good service is common if a service charge is not included.
Cash (BRL) and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments and installments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.
Warm days and cooler evenings; pleasant for city strolls and outdoor activities.
Mild and dry in the interior; comfortable for hiking and sightseeing.
Blooming landscapes and rising humidity; ideal for photography and markets.
Central at Night
Hiking in Central
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged landscapes with viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife in protected areas.
Gorge hike with shaded trails and a river for cooling off.
Waterfall trail suitable for day hikes with scenic cascades.
Airports
How to reach Central by plane.
Major international gateway for Bahia; about 180-220 km from Central by road, with frequent connections to Brazilian cities and some international flights.
Regional airport serving western Bahia; closer to Central and offers domestic flights to major hubs.
Regional airport with connections to larger Brazilian cities; useful for shorter transfer to the inland region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population with diverse roots across the region.
European-descended residents and long-standing families in the inland communities.
A significant Afro-Brazilian community contributing to music, cuisine, and culture.
Small but present communities with traditional crafts and stories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect community games and local leagues on weekends.
Traditional martial art with music and dance; commonly seen at cultural centers and in the streets.
Common in schools and beaches; informal pick-up games are frequent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Central.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for feijão, arroz, mandioca, and vegetable stews. Many places can prepare vegetarian options or adapt dishes by omitting fish or meat.