Things To Do
in Escada
Escada is a small, friendly city in Pernambuco, Brazil, set among sugarcane fields and patches of Atlantic Forest in the Mata Sul region. Its historic center features colorful colonial buildings and a compact, walkable layout that invites casual exploration. The surrounding countryside offers farms, craft markets, and scenic river crossings that reflect rural Pernambuco life.
Visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality, flavorful regional dishes, and a relaxed tempo perfect for short getaways.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming streets of Escada's Historic Center, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Wander through local artisan shops, admiring handcrafted souvenirs and traditional crafts. Stop by a local café to enjoy a warm pão de queijo paired with a strong Brazilian coffee.
After lunch, visit the Museu de Escada to learn about the local history and culture through engaging exhibits. Take a leisurely stroll to the Praça da Bandeira, a vibrant square filled with lush greenery and lively locals. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a nearby park, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine, savoring dishes like feijoada or moqueca. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverfront, taking in the beautiful views and vibrant nightlife. End your evening at a local bar, where you can listen to live music and mingle with friendly locals.
Kick off your day with a trip to the nearby Praia de Gaibu, a stunning beach known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. After soaking up the sun, indulge in a breakfast of fresh fruits and local pastries from a beachside vendor. Spend some time swimming and enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze.
In the afternoon, engage in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or stand-up paddleboarding, available for rent along the beach. Take a break for lunch at a beachside restaurant, where you can taste fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the ocean view. After lunch, continue your beach adventure with beach volleyball or simply relax on the sand.
As the day comes to a close, watch the sunset over the ocean, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Enjoy a beach bonfire experience, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow travelers. Cap off the night by joining a beach party featuring local music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short trip) | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, walkable historic center
- Warm hospitality and regional cuisine
- Nearby nature experiences and rural scenery
- Affordability compared with major cities
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Transportation options can be sparse outside town
- Some services may accept only cash or local payment apps
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu não falo Português muito bem" - I don’t speak Portuguese very well.
Places to Visit in Escada
Visit one of these nice places.
The town’s central square with pastel façades, a statue, and golden sunset light.
A historic church with classic local architecture and quiet interior spaces for portraits.
Scenic waterfront along the river with boats, moments of daily life, and golden hour reflections.
A hillside viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
Food in Escada
Escada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sun-dried beef with cassava, a classic rural dish often served with manteiga de garrafa or cheese.
Must-Try!
A coconut-milk fish stew with dendê oil and peppers, a proud Pernambuco specialty.
A rolled thin cake filled with guava paste, a traditional Pernambuco dessert.
Tapioca crepes filled with melted local cheese, perfect as a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can taste tropical fruits, fresh fish, cassava-based snacks, and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia' or 'Oi' and make eye contact; shake hands with new people and kiss on the cheek among friends.
Being on time is appreciated but not overly strict in social settings; small talk before business is common.
Avoid discussing sensitive topics in casual settings; use polite language and avoid raising your voice in public places.
Safety
Tipping in Escada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; round up bills or leave 5-10% in nicer restaurants. Some places in Brazil already add service charges; check the bill.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in towns, and PIX (instant bank transfer) is popular for mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February is hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry sunscreen, a hat, and water. Seas are accessible, and community events often spill into the evenings.
March to May brings lingering heat with sporadic rain; days are still warm but comfortable for outdoor sightseeing.
June to August is drier and slightly cooler; mornings can be cool, but afternoons are pleasant for outdoor activities.
September to November returns to warm days with higher humidity and occasional rain showers; ideal for photography at golden hour.
Escada at Night
Hiking in Escada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic forest trail through Atlantic Forest patches with birdwatching opportunities.
Riverside trail along the Escada river with gentle elevation and viewpoints.
A waterfall hike featuring a refreshing swim and forest scenery.
Hilltop overlook with panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach Escada by plane.
Major gateway for the region; from Recife you can rent a car or take a bus/transfer to Escada.
A larger regional airport about a couple of hours away by road; useful if flying via João Pessoa to explore northern Recife coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant cultural influence in the region with music, cuisine, and traditions.
Agrarian communities shaping local markets and craft traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and casual pickup games are common.
Played on coastal areas and beach parks when available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Escada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find hearty veggie sides, tapioca fillings, and fruit-based desserts; ask for cassava-based dishes without meat; many places will accommodate with side vegetables or cheese.