Things To Do
in Faxinal dos Guedes
Faxinal dos Guedes is a small municipality in western Santa Catarina, Brazil, set amid rolling farmland and rivers. It offers a quiet, authentic rural atmosphere with friendly locals and a strong agricultural heritage. The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural landscapes and traditional Brazilian cuisine.
Visitors can experience a slower pace while exploring local markets, farms, and scenic viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small town of Faxinal dos Guedes, surrounded by stunning hills and valleys. Check into a charming local pousada that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll to soak in the town's natural beauty and get acquainted with the local culture.
Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes like feijão tropeiro and grilled meats. Afterward, visit the nearby Parque Municipal, where you can explore scenic walking trails and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. Capture beautiful photographs of the area's vibrant landscapes.
Savor dinner at a cozy eatery in town, possibly trying the famous churrasco. Afterward, take a relaxing walk under the starry sky, embracing the peaceful ambiance of the countryside. End the night at your pousada, resting up for the adventures that await in the days to come.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the nearby Serra do Rio do Rastro, one of the most scenic drives in Brazil. Embark on a guided hike through the lush landscapes, where you’ll experience stunning views and fresh air. Along the way, your guide will share insights about the region's ecology and history.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls. After the hike, visit local artisans in town to learn about traditional crafts, including pottery and weaving. Engage in conversation and gain insight into the daily life of Faxinal dos Guedes' residents.
Return to your pousada to relax and freshen up. Dine at a local steakhouse, indulging in flavorful grilled meats and regional sides. After dinner, join a community event or gathering if available to mingle with locals and learn some of their folk stories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🥗Lunch/dinner combo | $6-12 |
| 🏨Hostal/guesthouse per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, friendly towns with scenic rural landscapes
- Affordable costs and authentic local cuisine
- Limited nightlife and shopping options
- Distances to larger cities mean longer travel times
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
Places to Visit in Faxinal dos Guedes
Visit one of these nice places.
The town square offers classic Brazilian town vibes, with colorful buildings, a church, and morning market activity.
A river overlook along the valley providing golden hour light over fields.
A historic church with distinctive architecture ideal for exterior photos.
Narrow streets with storefronts and vibrant signage perfect for candid street photography.
Food in Faxinal dos Guedes
Faxinal dos Guedes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy polenta baked with local cheese, a staple in farm households.
Must-Try!
A rustic beef and rice dish often cooked in clay pots during gatherings.
Assorted grilled meats served with farofa and mandioca.
Cheesy pão de queijo paired with strong, locally grown coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers’ market selling fresh vegetables, dairy, and regional snacks.
Portable pastries and street bites like pastéis and espetinhos around the town square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a friendly kiss on the cheek is common among friends; greet with ‘Bom dia’ or ‘Olá’.
Politeness and deference to elders are valued in social interactions.
Arrive on time for meetings, but social gatherings may start later.
Safety
Tipping in Faxinal dos Guedes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up on bills or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is common.
Local shops typically accept cash (BRL) and cards; smaller vendors may prefer cash. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot days with afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.
Mild and comfortable days with colorful foliage; great for outdoor strolling and photography.
Cool to mild temperatures; occasional frost in higher areas; layering is recommended.
Pleasant and breezy with blooming flora; ideal for hiking and markets.
Faxinal dos Guedes at Night
Hiking in Faxinal dos Guedes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy 2-3 km loop along the river with wildlife and meadow views.
Moderate 4-5 km hike to a hilltop with panoramic farmland scenery.
Airports
How to reach Faxinal dos Guedes by plane.
Regional airport serving western Santa Catarina with domestic flights and connections.
Larger regional airport in northern Santa Catarina offering more flight options.
Major airport in nearby Paraná, with more domestic and some international options; longer travel to Faxinal dos Guedes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families and older residents with strong ties to agriculture.
Local farmers and workers who cultivate crops and raise livestock.
Young people attending regional schools and colleges in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and school teams play regularly.
Common in schools and community centers; recreational leagues are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Faxinal dos Guedes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose from vegetable stews, salads, polenta dishes, and dairy-based options; ask for legumes and grains to complement meals. In local restaurants, request vegetables and grains as the main course, and avoid heavy meat-heavy dishes.