Things To Do
in Curimatá
Curimatá is a small inland town in Bahia, Brazil, perched along the São Francisco River and surrounded by lush farmland. The town offers a warm, welcoming vibe with colorful markets, riverside life, and rustic Bahian cuisine. Life here centers on fishing, farming, and community events that showcase regional music and crafts.
Visitors can expect a laid-back pace, river views, and plenty of opportunities to experience authentic Bahian culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Church of São José, where the stunning baroque architecture will leave you in awe. Stroll through the vibrant streets, soaking in the local culture and enjoying the colorful murals that adorn the walls. Stop by a local café to savor a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and freshly brewed coffee.
After lunch, explore the local artisan shops, where you can find unique handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Visit the Museu de Curimatá to learn about the region's history and heritage, immersing yourself in the stories of the past. As the afternoon sun begins to set, head to the nearby riverbank for a leisurely walk with stunning views of the water.
As night falls, dine at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, sampling delicious dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter, as many locals gather to unwind after a long day. Cap off your evening with a stroll through the town square, where you can often catch live performances or cultural events.
Begin your morning with a guided hike through the lush trails of the surrounding rainforest, where you can witness the breathtaking biodiversity of the region. Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds, playful monkeys, and vibrant insects as you traverse the winding paths. The fresh air and natural beauty will invigorate your senses as you connect with the environment.
After a picnic lunch in a scenic clearing, continue your exploration by venturing deeper into the jungle to visit a nearby waterfall. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters while enjoying the serenity of nature all around you. Capture the moment with photographs of the stunning scenery and unique wildlife you encounter along the way.
Return to Curimatá for an evening of relaxation, perhaps enjoying a quiet dinner at a cozy eatery that offers local specialties. Reflect on your day's adventures while savoring traditional desserts like quindim or beijinho. If you're feeling adventurous, join in on a local dance class to learn some traditional Brazilian moves!
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/night | $25-40 |
| 🚗Local transportation (one-way) | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic Bahian culture
- Scenic riverfront and nature close to town
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Rural roads can be slow and uneven during the rainy season
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Por favor" - Please
Places to Visit in Curimatá
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful market stalls, everyday life, and morning light make a vibrant street photography subject.
Bridge views of the river and passing boats—great for long-exposure shots at dusk.
Historic church with colonial features and a hilltop approach for atmospheric portraits.
Lookout point with panoramic views over town and surrounding greenery.
Food in Curimatá
Curimatá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Bahian fish stew with coconut milk and palm oil, often made with river fish and served with rice.
Must-Try!
Salt-cured beef served with cassava (mandioca) flour or cooked cassava, a staple in inland Bahia.
A thick fish stew thickened with farofa-like rice flour and served with fish.
Black-eyed pea fritters typically served with vatapá and caruru; often found at markets during festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pulse of daily life with fresh fish, cassava, produce, and small snack stalls.
On-street stalls offering tapioca crepes and caldo de peixe on busy market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common among friends; address elders with Senhor/Senhora and first names after familiarity.
Dress modestly for religious sites and markets; avoid loud behavior in churches; show patience in queues and markets.
Ask permission when photographing people, especially children; a friendly explanation goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Curimatá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in small eateries; 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. In markets, rounding up the bill to the nearest real is appreciated. For guided tours, consider 10% of the tour cost.
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries; many places accept debit cards, and some larger restaurants accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town, but card readers can be intermittent in rural spots. Carry a small amount of local currency for day-to-day purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.
Warmer days with cooler nights; comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration; brief rainfall possible.
Still warm by day, cooler at night; rain is less frequent but possible—pack a light layer and rain protection.
Greener landscapes and higher river levels; ideal for river trips and photography; humidity rises.
Curimatá at Night
Hiking in Curimatá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle day hike with river views and wildlife along the riverbank.
Hilly route offering panoramic views of the valley and town.
Airports
How to reach Curimatá by plane.
The main gateway to the Bahia interior; offers international and domestic flights and serves as the primary access point for Curimatá with long road transfers.
A smaller airstrip within a few hours’ drive; flights are infrequent and mainly used for regional access or private charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who live along the São Francisco River and the surrounding farmlands, with strong fishing and agriculture traditions.
Cultural influences from Bahia’s Afro-Brazilian heritage visible in music, cuisine, and crafts.
Families involved in cassava, corn, and livestock farming; some seasonal migration within the region.
Small business owners who sustain the town’s markets and craft scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in towns and on beaches; expect pickup games and local leagues.
River-based sport on the São Francisco for recreation and local tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Curimatá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy cassava, beans, rice, and a variety of fruit. Request plant-based options from kitchen staff; many dishes can be prepared without fish or meat.