Things To Do
in Colatina
Colatina is a vibrant inland city in Espírito Santo that blends agroindustrial energy with a welcoming urban scene. Nestled along the Doce River, it serves as a regional hub for commerce, culture, and cuisine. The town mixes old colonial influences with modern development, and its parks, markets, and historic streets reflect daily life in the region.
Visitors can expect warm hospitality, lively markets, and easy access to nearby natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Praça da Igreja Matriz, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Church of St. John the Baptist. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries and coffee. Take a stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Colatina's historic center.
Visit the Museu de História e Cultura, where you can learn about the city's cultural heritage through engaging exhibits. Afterward, indulge in a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes like 'moqueca' or 'feijão tropeiro'. Spend some time at the nearby Parque Silviano Brandão, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.
As the sun sets, head to a local bar for a refreshing 'caipirinha' while mingling with friendly locals. Later, enjoy dinner at a popular steakhouse, where you can feast on juicy cuts of beef grilled to perfection. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the Rio Doce, taking in the beautiful views and vibrant nightlife.
Embark on an early morning trip to Parque Nacional do Caparaó, known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and diverse wildlife. After arriving, start with a guided hike along one of the many trails, immersing yourself in the lush vegetation and the sounds of nature. Keep an eye out for local fauna, including exotic birds and playful monkeys.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint within the park, surrounded by stunning vistas of the mountains. Post-lunch, continue your exploration by visiting the iconic Pico da Bandeira, the third-highest peak in Brazil, where you can enjoy panoramic views. Capture the beauty of the area with your camera, and take some time to reflect on the tranquility of nature.
Return to Colatina in the evening and unwind with a casual dinner at a local pizzeria. Try a variety of flavors, including regional toppings that highlight the local culinary scene. As night falls, enjoy a nightcap at a cozy bar, sharing stories about your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚆Public transit ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic) | $20-50 per week |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm and welcoming locals
- Good value for money and authentic experiences
- Gateway to natural beauty and riverside scenery
- Smaller nightlife compared to coastal cities
- Limited English widely spoken; basic Portuguese helps
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Fale mais devagar, por favor" - Speak more slowly, please
- "Você aceita cartão de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
- "Prazer em conhecê-lo" - Nice to meet you
Places to Visit in Colatina
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside views at sunrise and sunset with calm water reflections and boats in activity.
Colorful façades, arches and daily life provide great urban photography opportunities.
Textured walls, market signage and candid market scenes ideal for street photography.
Food in Colatina
Colatina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Espírito Santo fish stew made with olive oil, onions, peppers, cilantro and lime; typically cooked without coconut milk.
Must-Try!
Crispy pastel pastries filled with cheese or meat, often enjoyed with fresh coconut water from street stalls.
Cornmeal cake served with melted cheese or a savory sauce, a common comfort dish in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, spices, regional specialties and everyday snacks.
Afternoon stalls around the market area offering pastel, tapioca, açaí bowls and fresh juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a hello or good day; use polite forms like senhor or senhora with adults you don't know; handshakes are common.
Safety
Tipping in Colatina
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; a small tip is common if service charge is not included.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and local apps like PicPay are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade or water activities.
Warm days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor walks and city exploring.
Mild temperatures, possible rain; layer clothing and plan outdoor time for mornings.
Moderate temperatures; great for markets, parks and riverfront strolls.
Colatina at Night
Hiking in Colatina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking routes in nearby hills offering panoramic views and forested scenery.
Trail leading to nearby waterfalls and lush riverbank scenery.
Airports
How to reach Colatina by plane.
Major gateway to Espírito Santo; about a 3–4 hour drive from Colatina depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving the Doce River Valley region; road transfer to Colatina is possible.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People of European descent and mixed heritage.
Mixed ethnic heritage, a large portion of the population.
Afro-Brazilian communities and individuals.
Smaller Indigenous presence in some rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; watch local teams or play in community leagues.
Common in schools and clubs; casual beach-style or indoor games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colatina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plant-based options can be found in markets and several restaurants; ask for vegetarian dishes or customize meals by omitting meat or fish.