Things To Do
in Goiás
Goiás is a landlocked state in central Brazil known for its expansive cerrado landscapes, colonial towns, and friendly inland culture. The region blends modern cities with rugged natural beauty, from parks and markets to dramatic canyons. Chapada dos Veadeiros and other natural areas showcase striking waterfalls, quartz-rich rock formations, and wide, open skies.
With hearty regional cuisine, warm hospitality, and a relaxed pace, Goiás offers a quintessential interior Brazilian experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in the vibrant capital of Goiás, Goiânia. Visit the beautiful Parque Flamboyant for a refreshing walk and enjoy the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Don't forget to stop by the local market to taste traditional sweets such as 'pé de moleque'.
After lunch, explore the impressive architecture of the city, including the iconic Palácio das Esmeraldas. Take a guided tour of the city’s historical landmarks, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage. End your exploration with a visit to the Sercreeira art gallery for a glimpse of local art.
As evening falls, dine in one of Goiânia's renowned restaurants, sampling regional dishes like 'pacoca' or 'empadão goiano'. Savor the lively atmosphere as you join locals at a cozy bar for some live music. Wrap up the night by strolling through the city center, where you can enjoy the illuminated streets and vibrant nightlife.
Travel to Pirenópolis, known for its colonial architecture and charming streets. Start with a visit to the Igreja do Bonfim, an iconic church that stands proudly at the top of the hill. Wander through the artisanal shops selling handmade crafts and local delicacies.
In the afternoon, head to the beautiful waterfalls nearby, such as the Cachoeira do Abade. Spend a few hours swimming and relaxing amidst nature while enjoying the serenity of the tranquil surroundings. Afterward, explore the eco-friendly villages that surround Pirenópolis, experiencing rural life in Goiás.
As night descends, relish a candlelit dinner at a traditional restaurant, trying local favorites like fish stew. Enjoy the atmosphere as local musicians perform folk songs that tell the stories of the region. Stroll through the streets, soaking in the romance of this picturesque town under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🥤Domestic beer (0.5L) | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural beauty and easy access to iconic landscapes
- Warm, welcoming local culture and affordable travel
- Seasonal heat and occasional heavy rain can affect outdoor plans
- Travel between interior towns may require planning due to limited direct routes
- "Oi, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o [lugar]?" - Where is the [place]?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não falo português muito bem" - I don’t speak Portuguese very well
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Goiás
Visit one of these nice places.
An imposing cathedral with striking architecture, ideal for sunrise or evening shots with the city skyline.
Famous lunar-like rock formations and surreal lighting—perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
Iconic canyons, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas and golden hour opportunities.
Modern park spaces with landscaped paths, suitable for candid street and architectural photography.
Food in Goiás
Goiás Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with pequi fruit, a signature Goiás flavor often paired with beef or chicken.
Must-Try!
A hearty savory pie filled with meat, eggs, and cheese, perfect for sharing.
Slow-cooked beef with cassava, a comforting rural dish typical in the countryside.
Chicken and rice dish simmered with peppers and spices, a common goiano comfort food.
Corn-based preparations baked or steamed, often enjoyed as a street treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample tropical fruits, queijo coalho, tapioca, and regional ready-to-eat dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or short kiss on the cheek is common among acquaintances. Use polite forms like 'por favor' and 'obrigado(a)'.
Be punctual for appointments; Brazilians value personal warmth but may stand closer in conversation than some travelers expect.
Safety
Tipping in Goiás
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a 5–10% tip is customary when service is not included; in casual eateries, rounding up is common. Taxis often appreciate rounding up to the nearest real; hotel staff may expect a small tip for special service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Warm days with cooler evenings; a comfortable period for hiking and city exploration.
Dry season with mild to cool nights; days are pleasant for outdoor photography and long walks.
Moderate temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for nature walks and scenic drives.
Goiás at Night
Hiking in Goiás
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic canyon hike with sweeping views and sunlight filtering through rock formations.
Popular waterfall route with multiple cascades and natural pools.
Short hikes around lunar-like rock formations, great for photography and easy day trips.
Airports
How to reach Goiás by plane.
Principal regional airport serving Goiânia; domestic flights and connections to major Brazilian hubs.
Major national hub about a few hours away by road; convenient for travelers exploring Chapada dos Veadeiros and central Goiás with onward road connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young and mid-career residents in Goiânia and other cities; mix of service and industrial sectors.
Agricultural towns and farming regions across the state with strong local traditions and markets.
Various groups in more remote Cerrado areas with distinct cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the dominant sport; expect local games, casual street play, and football fans in bars after matches.
Popular in schools and clubs; you may catch amateur leagues or social volleyball at parks and resorts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Goiás.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Goiânia restaurants offer vegetable-focused dishes or can adapt traditional plates; look for queijo, legumes, rice and beans, and pão de queijo as a base. When in doubt, request 'sem carne' (no meat) or 'sem peixe' (no fish) and confirm ingredients.