Things To Do
in Cumaru

Cumaru is a small inland municipality in Pernambuco, Brazil, tucked into the rural hinterlands of the Northeast. The town sits among palm-studded valleys and farms that grow cacao and other crops, offering a quiet pace and close encounters with local life. Visitors are welcomed by friendly residents, colorful markets, and churches that reflect a long regional history.

With easy access from larger cities and a focus on nature and tradition, Cumaru provides an authentic Northeast experience away from the main tourist routes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Cumaru
morning
:

Arrive in Cumaru and settle into your accommodation, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a hearty Brazilian breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh fruits and traditional pastries. Take a stroll through the village to acclimate and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.

afternoon
:

Visit the stunning nearby waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. Explore the natural beauty of the region while capturing breathtaking photographs of the lush landscapes. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, savoring local delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy local restaurant, sampling authentic dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Engage in conversation with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and recommendations. Wrap up your day by watching the sunset from a scenic viewpoint, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a guided tour of Cumaru, learning about its history and traditions. Visit local artisan shops and markets, where you can find handmade crafts that reflect the culture of the region. Attend a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Brazilian dishes.

afternoon
:

After lunch, participate in a community project or workshop, giving back to the friendly locals. Engage in folk dances or music sessions that highlight the vibrant culture of Cumaru. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals share their talents and stories with you.

evening
:

Experience an authentic Brazilian barbecue at a local churrascaria, enjoying the flavors of various meats grilled to perfection. Share laughter and good company with other travelers while savoring your meal. End the night with a stroll through the village streets, listening to music and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🚆Local transit ride$0.50-2
Coffee in cafe$1-3
🏨Budget hotel room per night$20-40
🎟Local attraction entry$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
  • Rich rural landscapes and authentic Northeastern culture
  • Affordable travel with easy access to smaller towns
  • Limited nightlife and fewer tourist amenities
  • Fewer direct flight connections depending on season
  • Healthcare facilities may be basic in the town
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Cumaru

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Cumaru

Historic church with colonial architecture and warm morning light ideal for portrait and architecture shots.

Praça Central e Mercados

Lively town square framed by colorful stalls; great for candid street photography and sunset colors.

Mirante da Serra

Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic countryside views over palm groves and farmland.

Ribeirão do Cumaru

Picturesque river bend with reflections and lush greenery, especially at golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cumaru

Cumaru's cuisine reflects the Pernambuco interior: hearty, rustic dishes built on beans, rice, cornmeal, cassava, and abundant fresh produce, with a focus on simple, flavorful combinations.

Cumaru Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Baião de Dois

A classic mix of rice and beans cooked together with queijo coalho and spices; a staple of the region.

Must-Try!

Carne de Sol com Purê de Mandioca

Sun-dried beef served with creamy manioc puree and a drizzle of manteiga, a comforting rural dish.

Cuscuz Nordestino com Queijo

Steamed cornmeal cake with regional cheese, often enjoyed at breakfast or as a snack.

Bolo de Rolo

Rolled guava-filled sponge cake, a Pernambuco specialty often found in local bakeries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Cumaru

A vibrant market where locals buy produce, nuts, spices, and daily snacks; great for fresh fruit and traditional bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cumaru has a tropical climate with hot temperatures year-round. The region experiences a rainy season roughly from April to July and a drier period for the rest of the year, with humidity influenced by Atlantic weather systems. Average daytime highs typically range from the mid-20s to mid-30s Celsius depending on the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde'; handshakes are common, hugs among friends.

Politeness and respect

Use 'Senhor'/'Senhora' with elders; say please and thank you; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.

Punctuality and conversations

Be patient in conversations; Brazilians often value warm, extended social interaction.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of belongings in crowded markets and on buses. Use reputable transportation, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and follow local guidance during any weather-related events or floods.

Tipping in Cumaru

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service isn’t already included; round up in casual places.

Payment Methods

Cash in BRL is common, and cards are increasingly accepted; PIX is widely used for quick instant payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent showers in the afternoon; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and carry a light rain jacket.

Autumn

Relatively milder days with periods of dryness; comfortable for outdoor activities and town strolling.

Winter

Warm days and cooler nights; light layers recommended for evenings; sporadic rainfall possible.

Spring

Warm and increasingly humid; lush landscapes and active markets as produce comes into season.

Nightlife Guide

Cumaru at Night

Nightlife in Cumaru is low-key, centered on cozy bars and family gatherings. You may encounter live forró or sertanejo music on weekends, with casual dancing in plazas or small venues along the main streets.

Hiking in Cumaru

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Serra do Cumaru Ridge Trail

A scenic ridge hike with panoramic views of valleys and palm groves, suitable for a half-day trek.

Ribeirão River Trail

Forest and river-side loop offering shade, birds, and cooling water stops.

Airports

How to reach Cumaru by plane.

Recife/Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC)

Major gateway to the region; about 2-3 hours by road from Cumaru.

Petrolina Airport (PNZ)

Regional airport with connections to Brazilian cities; useful for longer itineraries.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable with most amenities within a short stroll; outskirts require transit or a short drive. Some streets have uneven pavement and gentle hills.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Primarily mixed-heritage Brazilians (Pardo and White) with rural livelihoods; Catholic traditions are strong, with community events common.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

The most popular sport; widely watched and played in streets and fields.

Transportation

Traffic

In-town traffic is light; intercity travel relies on buses and private cars. Roads can be rural and winding; plan accordingly for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cumaru.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available with rice, beans, fresh vegetables, farofa, and salads; ask for pratos sem carne and substitutions when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cumaru is basic with local clinics; for more advanced care, residents travel to larger cities in Pernambuco. Travel insurance is recommended for visiting in case of emergencies.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide