Things To Do
in Corupá
Corupá is a small city in Santa Catarina's inland, Brazil, nestled in the Serra do Mar foothills. It is surrounded by lush Atlantic Forest and winding rivers, offering a tranquil mix of rural charm and slow-paced urban life. The town is known for its friendly locals, farm-to-table meals, and easy access to scenic nature.
Its location near Joinville makes it a convenient base for exploring northern Santa Catarina.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a guided walking tour of Praça da Matriz, admiring colonial façades and the morning bustle. Stop by a local bakery for fresh pão de queijo and aromatic coffee brewed Brazilian style. Chat with artisans at the craft stalls to immerse yourself in Corupá’s vibrant handicraft traditions.
Head to the Regional Culture Museum to explore exhibits on local history, including indigenous roots and European immigration. Admire detailed relics and interactive displays that showcase the evolution of the municipality’s identity. Take a leisurely stroll through the adjacent park, spotting native plants and sculptures.
Dine at a traditional churrascaria, sampling succulent cuts of beef, pork, and sausage grilled over an open flame. Pair your meal with a local wine from the Serra do Mar hills, renowned for its fruity aromas. Return to your pousada under starlit skies, listening to the soft chorus of night insects.
Drive toward Salto Parati, one of Corupá’s most dramatic waterfalls, and arrive as the mist rises in the dawn light. Hike along well-marked trails in the Atlantic Forest, spotting ferns and bromeliads clinging to ancient trees. Pause at a viewpoint to feel the cool spray and listen to the roar of cascading water.
Descend to the riverbed to swim in crystal-clear pools beneath the falls, a refreshing escape from the warm afternoon sun. Enjoy a riverside picnic with tropical fruits and artisanal cheese while birds call overhead. Explore smaller cascades upstream, where hidden grottoes offer secret swimming holes for adventurous visitors.
Return to Corupá and soak in a hot tub or outdoor jacuzzi at your eco-lodge, warmed by the last light of day. Sample regional desserts like bolo de banana or pudim de leite at a local café near your accommodations. Reflect on the day’s natural wonders as fireflies dance around illuminated trails.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (single ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🛒Groceries for a couple of days | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil nature and friendly locals
- Close to Joinville and other northern SC destinations
- Affordability and authentic regional cuisine
- Good access to forests and rivers
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Smaller transportation options in/out of town
- Some services may have limited English speakers
- Weather can be humid and rain-prone
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Corupá
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic bend with forested hills that makes great sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Colonial-style facades, cobblestones, and soft evening light create charming urban compositions.
Forest canopy and distant valleys viewed from a lookout along a short trail.
Pasture-lands and distant hills with grazing livestock provide quiet rural scenes.
Food in Corupá
Corupá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or pan-seared trout from local streams, typically seasoned with herbs and served with lemon and butter sauce.
Must-Try!
A fish broth thickened with farinha de mandioca, a comforting staple found in many inland and coastal eateries.
Rustic, comforting polenta topped with regional cheese; commonly found in family-run restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks like pão de queijo and pastel.
Seasonal street stalls offering grilled corn, tapioca, fresh fruit, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and friendly eye contact are common; use polite phrases like por favor and obrigado(a). Address elders as Senhor/Senhora and show warmth in social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Corupá
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; many places in Brazil will have service included for larger groups. Cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is handy in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with high humidity and regular afternoon showers; outdoor activities are great but stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Milder temperatures, less rain, and lush green landscapes; good for outdoor exploration and city strolls.
Cooler nights; days are comfortable for hiking, but mornings can be foggy; pack a light jacket.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for outdoor markets and scenic drives.
Corupá at Night
Hiking in Corupá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail with viewpoints over the valley and distant towns; moderate difficulty.
Waterfall trail along the Itapocu River, suitable for a half-day hike.
Ridge walk with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside; steep in parts.
Airports
How to reach Corupá by plane.
Serves getaways to the region; about 60-75 km by road from Corupá, accessible by car or bus.
International airport near Itajaí; roughly 120-140 km away; convenient for longer international trips.
Florianópolis airport; about 210-230 km away; serves many national and international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly family-oriented residents with a mix of age groups.
A significant portion of residents are older adults who enjoy the town’s quiet pace.
Influence from historical European immigration in the region with cultural events and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local amateur clubs and community leagues.
Popular outdoor activities given the scenic roads and hills.
River and stream fishing in safe, permitted areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Corupá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many eateries; look for bean dishes, rice and salad plates, grilled vegetables, and mushroom dishes. If needed, ask for no meat or fish and request substitutions.