Things To Do
in Exu
Exu is a small inland town in Pernambuco's Sertão, surrounded by arid caatinga landscapes and open horizons. Its history blends rural life, strong faith, and regional storytelling that shape everyday life in the town. The center thrums with markets, colorful storefronts, and friendly conversations that welcome visitors seeking an authentic Northeast experience.
With a warm, unplugged vibe and nearby countryside to explore, Exu serves as a gateway to rural culture and memorable encounters with locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Exu by visiting the historic downtown area, where you can admire colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Wander through local markets filled with handcrafted goods and traditional foods, immersing yourself in the culture. Stop by the Museu de Exu to learn about the rich history and heritage of the region.
After lunch at a quaint local eatery, take a guided tour of the iconic Igreja de São José, known for its stunning baroque style. Explore the surrounding plazas, where you can interact with friendly locals and soak in the atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the nearby artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a taste of traditional Exu cuisine, such as carne de sol and feijão verde. Enjoy the sounds of local musicians playing regional music, creating a lively ambiance. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, where the nightlife begins to come alive.
Start your day at the vibrant local fair, where you can experience the heart of Exu's culture. Browse through stalls showcasing fresh produce, handmade crafts, and authentic foods while interacting with the friendly vendors. Sample local delicacies like tapioca and fresh fruits to fuel your day.
Continue your exploration at the fair by attending a cooking demonstration, where you can learn how to make traditional dishes using local ingredients. Engage with local artisans, who often share their skills in crafts such as weaving and pottery, providing insight into their crafts. Take a leisurely walk around the fairgrounds and enjoy live music performances by local artists.
As evening approaches, enjoy a traditional meal at one of the fair’s food stalls, where you can savor regional specialties under the stars. Afterward, join in a spontaneous dance or music session that often occurs, connecting you with the locals. The lively atmosphere will leave you with lasting memories of Exu’s vibrant community spirit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-15 |
| 🚕Local taxi or ride | $2-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm and welcoming locals
- Affordable prices for food and accommodations
- Rich rural culture and authentic Northeast experiences
- Accessible day trips to nearby caatinga landscapes
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Rural infrastructure can be basic
- Long travel times from major airports
- Hot dry climate can be challenging for sensitive travelers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you take cards?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
Places to Visit in Exu
Visit one of these nice places.
The town square with iconic buildings and daily life provides classic Sertão photography moments, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Cobbled lanes and colorful façades offer vibrant compositions and candid street photography opportunities.
A hillside vantage point offering expansive views of Exu and the surrounding caatinga landscape, ideal for sunset shots.
Food in Exu
Exu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mix of rice, beans, cheese, and sometimes dried meat; a staple in Sertão homes and restaurantes.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked or roasted goat often served with mandioca (cassava) or rice, a signature rural dish.
Sweet cornmeal pudding spiced with coconut and cinnamon, popular as a comforting dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market hub where you can taste fresh fruits, roasted seeds, and cassava dishes, plus contact with everyday life in Exu.
Mobile stalls along the central avenues offering hot tapioca crepes and other quick, comforting bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Bom dia/Boa tarde” and shake hands; address elders and officials politely. Small talk and warmth are appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; remove hats and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or family settings; a brief smile and courtesy go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Exu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns. In restaurants, leaving about 10% for good service is common if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are increasingly common in larger establishments. PIX, Brazil’s instant payment system, is popular for quick transfers and small businesses may accept it. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with strong sun. Hydration is essential; carry sunscreen and a hat. Outdoor activities are best morning or late afternoon.
Transition period with more comfortable temperatures and occasional rainfall. Good for nature walks and photography after rain when colors are vivid.
Milder days and cooler nights; evenings can be pleasantly cool. Still generally warm by many standards, but pack a light layer.
Pleasant weather with increased outdoor activity and blooming flora; great for exploring caatinga trails and markets.
Exu at Night
Hiking in Exu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop through dry forest (caatinga) with panoramic views over the Sertão.
Rugged hills with sweeping vistas, ideal for a day hike and birdwatching.
A gentle trek along a seasonal river into small canyons and shaded pockets.
Airports
How to reach Exu by plane.
Major gateway to the region; substantial connections to national and international destinations; long road or multi-modal transfer to Exu.
Regional airport serving northern Pernambuco; practical option for reaching the Sertão with shorter onward travel to Exu.
Nearby option in the broader region; may be used by travelers combining visits to multiple Sertão towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many people live in farming communities surrounding the town, maintaining traditional agrarian livelihoods.
A growing group works in services and commerce in the town center.
Cultural influences from Afro-Brazilian traditions appear in music, cuisine, and religious practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, widely played in school yards, fields, and informal leagues.
A traditional Brazilian martial art practiced in community centers and cultural events.
Common on outdoor courts and nearby beaches; a casual favorite during warm periods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Exu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are built around beans, maize, and vegetables; ask for substitutions (cheese or extra greens) and avoid meat-heavy plates. Request pratos sem carne or escolha vegetariana when ordering.