Things To Do
in Charqueadas
Charqueadas is a small municipality in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, nestled along the western shores of the Guaíba Lake near Porto Alegre. Its name reflects a historic era when charque (jerked beef) production thrived in the area, shaping local gaucho culture. Today, the town offers a quiet, scenic setting with river views, farm-to-table meals, and easy access to the regional capital.
A mix of heritage, nature, and a relaxed pace makes Charqueadas a thoughtful stop for those seeking Gaucho culture and outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Charqueadas and check into a local hotel. Take some time to freshen up and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café. Get acquainted with the friendly locals and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Visit the historical landmarks like the Church of São João Baptista, where you can appreciate the beautiful architecture and learn about the local history. Explore local shops and artisan markets to find unique souvenirs and handicrafts. A light lunch at a local eatery will give you the energy to continue your exploration.
Find a cozy restaurant to enjoy traditional Brazilian cuisine, sampling dishes such as feijoada and pão de queijo. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverside, enjoying the calming sounds of nature. Cap off the night with a drink at a local bar, mingling with the friendly locals.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the stunning Parque Natural Municipal da Hibrida. As you walk along the nature trails, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the lush, local flora and fauna. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Continue your adventure with a picnic lunch in the park, enjoying the tranquility surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply relaxing, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. If you're feeling adventurous, consider light hiking to explore deeper parts of the park.
Return to town and refresh yourself at your hotel before dinner. Dine at a restaurant known for its fresh seafood, highlighting the local ingredients. After dinner, relax at a nearby outdoor café, enjoying a local caipirinha as you watch the sunset.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚌Public transport (one-way ticket) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🎟Museum or attraction entry | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town vibe and scenic lake views
- Close proximity to Porto Alegre for day trips
- Affordability and friendly gaucho culture
- Rich history tied to charqueada heritage
- Limited nightlife and limited high-end dining
- Public transit within town can be sparse
- Medical facilities are basic; major hospitals in nearby cities
- Hot and humid summers may feel crowded in peak season
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Charqueadas
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour over the wide waters of the Guaíba with reflections from boats and distant lights.
Colorful façades and quiet streets that tell stories of the town’s charqueada heritage; best captured in morning or late afternoon light.
Docks with boats and soft water reflections, ideal for long-exposure shots at dusk.
Rustic farm buildings and open fields suitable for portraits and panoramic countryside shots.
Food in Charqueadas
Charqueadas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly cured beef cooked slowly until tender; typically served with beans, rice, and farofa.
Must-Try!
Assado barbecue of various cuts grilled over open flame, a social centerpiece of the region.
Rice-based dishes cooked with dried meat or charque, often with peppers and aromatics.
Pinhão nuts or dishes featuring pinhão, a regional seasonal staple commonly enjoyed roasted or boiled.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets along the waterfront offering fresh produce, cheeses, and simple street bites such as pastel and grilled sausages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or light embrace among friends; use basic phrases like bom dia/boa tarde. Manners and politeness are valued.
Dress modestly for religious sites; avoid loud conversations in churches or ceremonies; tipping is courteous but not mandatory.
Safety
Tipping in Charqueadas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, services in restaurants are commonly tipped around 10% if not included; smaller tips for bar staff or hotel porters are appreciated.
Cash (BRL) and cards are widely accepted; digital payments like PIX are common; carry small denominations for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot with high humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and enjoy lake activities early or late in the day.
Mild temperatures and lower humidity; pleasant for outdoor exploration and photography with softer light.
Generally mild with daytime highs around 15-20°C; evenings can be cooler. Rain is possible but less frequent than in summer.
Fresh and verdant with blooming plants; excellent for hiking and outdoor activities.
Charqueadas at Night
Hiking in Charqueadas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic trails along the lake offering views of water, boats, and distant hills; suit all levels.
Gentle rural paths through farm lands with opportunities to spot birds and local wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Charqueadas by plane.
Main international airport serving Porto Alegre; about 1–1.5 hours by car from Charqueadas, with frequent flights to major Brazilian cities and connections abroad.
Smaller regional airport in nearby city; alternative gateway with limited flights, useful for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Charqueadas, with a mix of long-time residents and newcomers.
People commuting to Porto Alegre or working in local agriculture and services.
Local schools and a regional context with students traveling to nearby cities for higher education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local leagues and casual games in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Charqueadas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy hearty bean dishes, grilled vegetables, salads, and pão de queijo options; request staff for vegetarian plates or substitutions.