Things To Do
in Esmeraldas

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour and local queijo Minas; available at nearly every bakery and café.

Must-Try!

A hearty, savory mix of beans, cassava flour, sausage and greens—common in local lunch menus and traditional restaurants.

Chicken stewed with okra, a classic Minas comfort dish often served with rice and polenta.

Local fresh and semi-aged cheeses served with sweet milk caramel; don’t miss trying locally made variations at markets.

Weekly market in the town center where farmers sell seasonal produce, cheeses, homemade preserves and snacks—great for sampling regional flavors and buying artisanal foodstuffs.

Small street stalls and neighborhood bars (botecos) serve quick snacks like pastéis, torresmo and fried snacks—ideal for an informal bite and a cold beer.

Handshake is common in formal or initial meetings; friends and acquaintances often exchange one or two cheek kisses (depending on region). Use polite greetings like 'Bom dia' and 'Obrigado/Obrigada'.

Casual, neat dress is normal—avoid overly flashy displays of wealth in small towns. Be respectful during religious events and avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.

Locals are warm and conversational; accepting a small invitation (tea or a quick chat) is polite. Personal questions (about family, work) are normal in friendly contexts—reciprocate politely.

Social events can be flexible with start times; business appointments tend to be more punctual—confirm times and expect some leeway for informal gatherings.

Restaurants commonly include a 10% service charge; if it’s not included, leaving around 10% is appreciated. For small services (taxi drivers, porters), round up or leave small change; tip modestly at bars and cafés.

Brazilian real (BRL) is the currency. Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in restaurants and stores, but small vendors and markets prefer cash—carry some reais for markets, buses and remote areas. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly accepted in larger establishments.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; lush landscapes and full waterfalls make it the best time for dramatic nature photos but bring rain protection for gear.

Transitional weather with drier days and comfortable temperatures—good for hiking and outdoor activities as trails dry out and crowds are thin.

Cooler and drier, particularly in mornings and evenings; daylight is crisp and clear for photography, but pack layers for chilly early mornings.

Warming temperatures and increasing humidity; wildflowers and bird activity rise, making it a rewarding time for nature walks and birdwatching.

A protected area with granite outcrops, trails, springs and waterfalls; offers day hikes and nature photography opportunities within a manageable drive.

A nearby state park with scenic ridgelines and trails—good for longer hikes and panoramic views; check access rules and trail conditions.

Several municipal and private trails lead to small waterfalls and natural pools—ideal for cooling swims after short hikes; local guidance is recommended for safe access.

A more distant but famous hiking destination with dramatic landscapes, endemic flora and waterfalls; suitable for a full-day trip from Esmeraldas for enthusiastic hikers.

Main international airport serving Belo Horizonte; the most convenient gateway for reaching Esmeraldas by rental car or intercity bus and taxi services.

Regional airport in Belo Horizonte for some domestic flights; offers closer access for certain routes though with fewer services than Confins.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with big cities; rice, beans, salads, cheese dishes and vegetable stews are commonly available—ask for ovo-lacto options and specify no meat.

Vegan dining can be challenging in small towns; plan ahead by bringing snacks or seeking larger towns/Belo Horizonte for more choices. Markets can supply fruits, manioc and legumes.

Pão de queijo is naturally gluten-free (tapioca flour), and many rice-and-bean dishes are safe; always double-check preparation and cross-contamination at small kitchens.

Communicate allergies in Portuguese where possible, and carry any necessary medication—local clinics may have limited supplies for specialized treatments.