Things To Do
in Extrema
Extrema is a small mountainous town in the Serra da Mantiqueira region of São Paulo state, renowned for its lush valleys and cool climate. Nestled among pine forests and waterfalls, it offers a tranquil escape from urban life with a distinctly rural charm. The town blends colonial architecture, artisan shops, and welcoming locals with abundant outdoor opportunities.
Visitors come to hike, explore waterfalls, and savor Minas-inspired cheeses and farm-fresh produce in a relaxed, scenic setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Extrema, Brazil, and take in the beautiful mountainous landscape that surrounds you. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian pastries. Spend the morning getting settled in your accommodations and exploring the nearby local shops.
After lunch, embark on a gentle hike to the stunning Cachoeira dos Bichos, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps take a refreshing dip. Capture photographs of the lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. Make your way back to town and stop for a coffee at one of the charming coffee shops.
As the sun sets, head to a local churrascaria for an authentic Brazilian barbecue experience. Savor various grilled meats and local side dishes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. End the evening with a leisurely stroll through the town square, perhaps catching some local live music.
Start your day with an energizing breakfast and prepare for an adventure in nature. Join a guided tour to Parque Municipal da Pedra Verde, where you can hike through scenic trails. Listen to the sounds of nature while observing the diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park and take in the breathtaking views from the viewpoint. Afterward, engage in adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing or zip-lining in the park. Relish the thrill and challenge as you push your limits.
Return to Extrema and unwind at your accommodation, sharing stories of your adventurous day. For dinner, taste some regional dishes at a cozy restaurant nestled in the hills. As night falls, relax under the starlit sky, appreciating the tranquility of the countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at midrange restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within town) | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain setting with easy access to nature
- Warm, friendly local culture and affordable costs
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining and shopping
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Extrema
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of valleys, forests, and distant towns—best at sunrise or sunset.
A dramatic waterfall with misty spray and rugged rock formations ideal for long exposure shots.
Historic town center with colonial doors, colorful facades, and a warm golden-hour ambience.
Calm lake surrounded by pines and trail paths, perfect for reflective water shots.
Food in Extrema
Extrema Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft, warm cheese bread best enjoyed fresh from local bakeries or cafés.
Must-Try!
Savory beans mixed with cassava flour, eggs, and bacon; a regional staple at many eateries.
Creamy bean puree often served with rice, greens, and fresh cheese; a Minas Gerais favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for local cheeses, produce, and quick snacks from friendly vendors.
Seasonal markets offering frutas, verduras, queijos, doce de leite, and street bites.
Casual stalls offering pastel pastries, salgadinhos, and freshly roasted corn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Olá' or 'Bom dia'; a handshake is common, and small talk is appreciated.
Use 'Senhor/Senhora' or 'Dona/Senhora' in formal contexts and when speaking to elders.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces; dress modestly when visiting churches or temples; remove hats indoors in some venues.
Safety
Tipping in Extrema
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is good.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in towns, but some smaller places may be cash-only; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with afternoon showers are common; carry light rain gear and stay hydrated while exploring waterfalls.
Mild temperatures and lower humidity; great for outdoor hikes and photography with golden light.
Cool to chilly nights; layered clothing is recommended and early mornings offer crisp skies for clear views.
Greener landscapes and blooming flora; comfortable weather for long walks and outdoor markets.
Extrema at Night
Hiking in Extrema
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop to a high overlook with expansive valley views.
Path to several nearby waterfalls with photo opportunities and picnic spots.
Rural route through farms with gentle climbs and scenic farmhouses.
Airports
How to reach Extrema by plane.
Major international gateway serving many domestic and international flights; accessible by road from Extrema via highways.
Airport in Campinas offering national and some international routes; a common alternative to GRU for travelers heading to the interior.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term residents and visiting families enjoy outdoor activities and slow-paced life.
Hikers, bikers, and nature lovers who visit for day trips and weekend escapes.
Residents involved in cheese making, dairy farming, and crafts contribute to a community-focused vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; games and informal matches are common in parks and squares.
Hilly terrain makes for scenic trail runs and weekend races.
Rural roads and forest trails suit riders of various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Extrema.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy queijo, feijão, greens, and rice; ask for vegetable dishes and salads; many places can adapt recipes, and bread and fruit are reliable options.