Things To Do
in Forquilhinha

Forquilhinha is a charming municipality located in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. Known for its rich history in coal mining, the town has a unique blend of urban and rural lifestyles. Surrounded by lush greenery and hills, it offers a serene environment for both residents and visitors.

The community is warm and welcoming, making it a great destination for those looking to experience local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Forquilhinha
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to sample fresh fruits and pastries. Visit the Museu Histórico de Forquilhinha to learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant, followed by a walk in the nearby Parque Ecológico, taking in the beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local pizzeria and enjoy a casual stroll through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Embark on a hike in the nearby Serra do Tabuleiro National Park, enjoying the breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park and then visit the Igreja Matriz São Miguel Arcanjo, a beautiful church with stunning architecture.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar with live music, mingling with locals, and enjoying a few drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$15
🚌Bus fare$1
🏨Hotel room per night$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Warm and welcoming locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Fewer options for international cuisine compared to larger cities.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Forquilhinha

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Ecológico

A scenic park featuring lush greenery and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature photography.

Igreja Matriz São Miguel Arcanjo

A stunning church known for its beautiful architecture and intricate details, perfect for architectural photography.

Serra do Tabuleiro

A picturesque mountain range offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Forquilhinha

Forquilhinha's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Brazilian flavors and local specialties, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Forquilhinha Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco

A traditional Brazilian barbecue featuring various meats, often served with farofa and vinaigrette.

Must-Try!

Pastel

Fried pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, commonly sold at street markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant local market held on weekends where you can find fresh produce, meats, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Forquilhinha experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature ranges from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being from December to March. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, and in more informal settings, a hug or kiss on the cheek may be appropriate.

Dress Code

Dress casually but neatly, especially in restaurants and religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm; addressing them with formal titles is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Forquilhinha is generally safe for tourists, but common-sense precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. It's advisable to use registered taxis or rideshare apps for transportation.

Tipping in Forquilhinha

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's common to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants, though not obligatory. Round up taxi fares as a small courtesy.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but most establishments also take credit and debit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm and humid, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage make it a great time for hiking and photography. Expect temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Winter

Mild winters with occasional cold fronts; temperatures can drop to 5°C (41°F). A good time for cozy indoor activities.

Spring

Pleasant weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor festivals and exploring nature. Expect temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Nightlife Guide

Forquilhinha at Night

Forquilhinha has a lively nightlife scene characterized by local bars and clubs, often featuring live music and dance. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals. Popular venues often serve traditional drinks such as caipirinhas and feature a mix of Brazilian and international music.

Hiking in Forquilhinha

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Rio dos Bugres

A scenic trail that follows the Bugres River, offering easy to moderate hiking suitable for families.

Trilha da Serra do Tabuleiro

This trail leads to stunning viewpoints and is recommended for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

Airports

How to reach Forquilhinha by plane.

Criciúma Airport (Crc)

Located about 15 km from Forquilhinha, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest option for international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Forquilhinha is moderately walkable, with many amenities located within walking distance in the town center. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, although some areas may lack pedestrian crossings. Exploring the town on foot is a pleasant experience, especially when visiting local markets and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Italian Descendants

A significant portion of the population descends from Italian immigrants, influencing local culture and cuisine.

Coal Mining Community

Historically, many residents were involved in coal mining, shaping the town's economy and community structure.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A highly popular sport in the region, with many local clubs and community support.

Volleyball

Widely played, especially in schools and community events, contributing to local social life.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Forquilhinha is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available through buses, but they may not run frequently, especially on weekends. Biking is also a viable option for getting around, with some dedicated bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Forquilhinha.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inform your server about any dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may be limited, many establishments are willing to accommodate requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Forquilhinha is fairly good, with several local clinics and a regional hospital. Emergency services are available, but it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also present, providing over-the-counter medications and basic health supplies.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide