Things To Do
in Encruzilhada do Sul

Traditional Brazilian barbecue with various cuts of beef and sausages, best enjoyed at local churrascarias or family barbecues.

Must-Try!

Roast chicken, often seasoned simply and served with rice, salad and farofa — available in small restaurants and bakeries.

Reflecting Italian influences in the region, creamy polenta topped with a slow-cooked meat sauce; found in local eateries and at family-run trattorias.

Greet people with a handshake or a cheek kiss in social settings; polite small talk and asking about family or local affairs is common. Use formal address ( senhor / senhora ) until invited to use first names.

Dress is casual but neat; wear respectful clothing when visiting churches or formal events. Avoid loud or intrusive behavior in quiet residential areas.

Locals are generally hospitable and curious about visitors; accept offers of coffee or a small snack when visiting homes or farms, and bring a small gift if invited.

Local marked and unmarked trails around fields and small hills are suitable for short hikes, birdwatching and landscape photography; ask at the tourist office or local farmers for recommended routes and permissions.

Sections of old drovers’ routes and country roads offer longer walking experiences through historic landscapes used by cattle drivers; these often pass by small farms and scenic viewpoints.

Short hikes up nearby hills or farm tracks reward hikers with panoramic views of the pampas and are best visited at sunrise or sunset for photography.

Regional airport in Santa Maria serving domestic flights and connections; reachable by a few hours' drive and commonly used for access to central Rio Grande do Sul.

Another regional airport serving the southern Rio Grande do Sul region with domestic connections; useful depending on flight availability.

The largest international airport in the state, with frequent domestic and some international flights; it is the main gateway for visitors coming from farther away and is a several-hour drive from Encruzilhada do Sul.

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture and livestock, often living in small towns or rural properties.

Many residents trace ancestry to Portuguese, Italian and other European settlers, which influences local culture, food and traditions.

Like many rural areas, there is a higher proportion of older residents, with younger people sometimes moving to larger cities for work and education.

The most popular sport locally and nationwide — local matches, youth leagues and community games are common and widely followed.

Reflecting gaucho culture, horseback riding, rodeo events and traditional competitions are popular and often central to festivals and local gatherings.

Indoor soccer (futsal) is widely played, especially among youth and during community tournaments.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with urban centers; bakeries, salads, polenta, vegetable stews and cheese dishes are reliable choices. Ask for vegetable-based sides and be explicit about no meat; many restaurants will adapt simple dishes.

Vegan choices are fairly limited — bring snacks and plan ahead. Markets sell fruits, breads (verify ingredients) and some vegetable preparations, but request olive oil‑based dressings and plain rice or beans to avoid hidden animal products.

Awareness of gluten-free needs is increasing but not guaranteed; bakeries and smaller kitchens may use wheat flour in many items. Request meals based on rice, grilled meats or vegetables and confirm preparation methods to avoid cross-contamination.