Things To Do
in Crixás

Crixás is a small municipality in northwest Goiás, Brazil, known for its ties to gold mining and wide expanses of cerrado countryside. The town combines a quiet rural atmosphere with working mines, family-run farms and rivers that cut through scenic savanna landscapes. Visitors find an authentic slice of interior Brazilian life: simple pousadas, local festas, and hearty regional food.

Infrastructure is modest, so most travelers come prepared for rural roads and limited tourist services.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Crixás
morning
:

Arrive in the charming town of Crixás and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian dishes such as pão de queijo and fresh fruit. Take a stroll through the streets to familiarize yourself with the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the locals.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museu Histórico de Crixás to learn about the region's gold mining history and its influence on the town's development. Engage with local artisans as they demonstrate traditional crafts and discuss their significance. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk along the main plaza as the sun sets, admiring the colonial architecture illuminated by streetlights. Savor a delightful dinner at a popular eatery, where you can taste local favorites while mingling with residents. Cap off your evening with a relaxed drink at a bar, soaking in the friendly atmosphere.

day 2
Nature Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with an early breakfast and gear up for a day of adventure in the nearby Serra da Canastra National Park. Explore the stunning landscapes and pristine nature as you hike through the lush trails, accompanied by the sounds of local wildlife. Be sure to capture photos of the breathtaking waterfalls and panoramic views.

afternoon
:

After a filling picnic lunch surrounded by nature, continue your exploration of the park's diverse ecosystems. Go birdwatching or simply relax by the serene streams, soaking in the tranquility of the environment. Allow the beauty of the park to rejuvenate your spirit and appreciate the untouched wilderness.

evening
:

Return to Crixás as the sun begins to set, allowing you to unwind after a day full of exploration. Enjoy a hearty dinner that includes local ingredients, such as fresh fish or game meats, highlighting the region's culinary heritage. Spend your evening enjoying the ambiance of Crixás, perhaps visiting a local advising venue for some light entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
Coffee or snack$1-3
🏨Budget pousada (per night)$25-60
🚌Local bus fare / short intercity ride$0.50-4
Taxi or ride by local driver (short trip)$3-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic, off-the-beaten-path interior Brazil experience
  • Close access to cerrado landscapes, rivers and rural culture
  • Warm, welcoming local community and simple, hearty cuisine
  • Low tourist crowds and affordable prices
  • Limited tourist infrastructure and few multilingual services
  • Basic healthcare and few emergency facilities locally
  • Unpaved roads and potential access issues in wet season
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options for visitors seeking urban amenities
  • "Olá / Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite" - Hello / Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado (m) / Obrigada (f)" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Eu não falo português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Crixás

Visit one of these nice places.

Town Square and Church

Capture everyday life, colonial-style architecture and colorful façades framed by the central church and surrounding trees.

Rio Crixás Banks

Riverside views at dawn or dusk offer reflections, birdlife and pastoral scenes with fishermen and cattle.

Cerrado Viewpoints

Open savanna landscapes provide sweeping vistas at sunrise/sunset — great for wide-angle shots and capturing the golden light over the grasslands.

Mining Landscape (from a safe distance)

Industrial-mining sites and tailings create stark, dramatic contrasts with the natural landscape; photograph only from public or permitted viewpoints and respect safety rules.

Culinary Guide

Food in Crixás

Crixás shares the hearty, rustic flavors of Goiás cuisine: simple, filling dishes built around rice, beans, pork, and regional ingredients like pequi and local cheeses. Meals are often home-style and rich in savory and smoky notes; small family restaurants (restaurantes por quilo and pratos feitos) serve the most authentic food.

Crixás Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz com Pequi

Rice cooked with pequi (a native fruit with a distinct floral, oily taste) — a regional staple you’ll find in local homes and eateries.

Must-Try!

Empadão Goiano

A savory pie filled with chicken, sausage, cheese and sometimes corn or peas; commonly available at bakeries and family restaurants.

Pamonha

A traditional corn-based delicacy — sweet or savory — often sold at markets and by street vendors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre (Weekly Market)

The municipal open-air market is the place to try snacks, buy regional fruits, cheeses and freshly made pamonha; it’s also the best spot to observe local life.

Street Botecos and Food Stalls

Small bars and food stalls near the praça sell pão de queijo, coxinha and local grilled snacks — ideal for casual tasting.

Climate Guide

Weather

Crixás has a tropical savanna (cerrado) climate with a distinct wet season (roughly October through April) and dry season (May through September). Temperatures are typically hot year-round, often 25–35°C (77–95°F) in the warmer months, with cooler nights during the dry season. Rainy months bring heavy afternoon thunderstorms that can disrupt travel on unpaved roads; the dry season is sunnier with lower humidity and clearer skies.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

People commonly greet with a firm handshake or a light cheek kiss between acquaintances; use ‘bom dia’ (good morning), ‘boa tarde’ (good afternoon) and ‘boa noite’ (good evening).

Photography and Privacy

Ask permission before photographing people, homes or work sites—residents value respect and personal privacy.

Dress and Behavior

Dress modestly for visits to churches and community events; rural towns appreciate polite, friendly and unhurried interaction—avoid loud or disrespectful behavior.

Visiting Homes and Fazendas

Bring a small gift like sweets or coffee when invited to a local home; remove shoes if hosts indicate and be prepared to accept offered refreshments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Crixás is generally safe but, like many small towns, has limited law enforcement resources—take standard precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and lock vehicles. Mining operations can pose hazards: follow posted warnings and do not approach active sites or tailings. Medical facilities are basic; for serious incidents emergency transport to a regional hospital may be required, so carry travel insurance and emergency contacts.

Tipping in Crixás

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; restaurants may add a 10% service charge on the bill—rounding up or leaving 5–10% in modest eateries and small tips for porters or guides is customary.

Payment Methods

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely used in Crixás, especially for small purchases and market stalls; larger businesses accept cards but card machines can be unreliable—carry small bills and check ATM availability before arrival.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Rainy season, Oct–Apr)

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; rivers and waterfalls are fullest and most scenic but some rural roads may become muddy or impassable after heavy rain.

Winter (Dry season, May–Sep)

Drier, sunnier days with lower humidity and cooler nights — ideal for hiking and outdoor activities; vegetation is browner but roads are more reliable.

Transition months (Mar–Apr & Sep–Oct)

Expect volatile weather with occasional rains; these months can be quieter for tourism but check road conditions before traveling to rural spots.

Nightlife Guide

Crixás at Night

Nightlife in Crixás is low-key and community-focused: expect small bars (botecos), live local music (often sertanejo), occasional dance nights, and weekend festas or rodeos in the surrounding area. There are no large clubs; social life tends to center on family gatherings, church events and small-town celebrations. Visitors enjoy relaxed evenings meeting locals over caipirinhas or draft beer rather than late-night city clubbing.

Hiking in Crixás

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rio Crixás Riverside Trail

Easy to moderate walks along the riverbanks with opportunities for birdwatching and swimming in natural pools; best visited during the dry season for safer footing.

Cerrado Viewpoint Loop

Short scenic loop hiking through open savanna vegetation offering panoramic views at sunrise or sunset—bring sun protection and water.

Waterfall Approach Trail

A natural trail leading to a local waterfall suitable for a half-day excursion; trail conditions vary—wear sturdy shoes and check local guidance for access and safety.

Airports

How to reach Crixás by plane.

Goiânia - Santa Genoveva (GYN)

The nearest major airport serving the state capital Goiânia; from there it’s a several-hour drive to Crixás by rental car or intercity bus, depending on the exact distance and route.

Brasília International (BSB)

A larger international airport with more flight options; driving from Brasília takes longer but buses and private transfers can connect travelers into Goiás region.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is small and easily walkable, with shops, the main square and eateries within short distances. However, many attractions (waterfalls, fazendas, mining viewpoints) require a car, motorcycle or arranged transport; sidewalks can be uneven and some streets are unpaved.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Rural Families

Long-established families involved in agriculture, cattle ranching and small trades form the backbone of the community.

Mining Workers and Migrants

Mining operations attract workers from other parts of Brazil, contributing to a working-class population with transient elements tied to the industry.

Mixed-Race (Pardo) and Euro-Brazilian Communities

The population is ethnically mixed, reflecting centuries of Portuguese, indigenous and African influences common across Goiás.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

Brazil’s most popular sport is widely played and watched at all ages; local matches and informal games are common in town fields.

Rodeo and Equestrian Activities

Rodeos, cattle-related events and horseback riding are culturally important in rural Goiás and attract community participation and festivals.

Recreational Fishing

Fishing in rivers and reservoirs is a frequent pastime for locals and visitors enjoying the natural waterways.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic levels are low compared to large Brazilian cities; congestion is minimal in town but roads outside the center can be narrow, unpaved or sandy. Public transportation is limited: local minibuses or vans and occasional intercity bus services connect to regional hubs, but schedules may be infrequent—renting a car or arranging private transport is often the most convenient option.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Crixás.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist but are limited; rice, beans, salads and vegetable stews are available, and some restaurants will adapt dishes on request—learn the words for dietary needs and be patient in rural kitchens.

Vegan/Gluten-free

Vegan and gluten-free options are harder to find; bring snacks and specialty items if you have strict needs, and communicate clearly about ingredients (e.g., queijo, farinha).

Allergies

Ingredient transparency can be limited; carry an allergy card in Portuguese and consider staying in accommodations with a kitchen to prepare safe meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is provided by local clinics (postos de saúde) able to handle minor ailments and first aid. For emergencies or specialized care you will likely need transfer to a regional hospital in a larger nearby municipality or to Goiânia or Brasília—medical transport can be time-consuming, so carry necessary medications and comprehensive travel insurance.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide