Things To Do
in Guarapuava
Guarapuava is a city in Paraná, Brazil, tucked into a landscape of rolling hills and pine forests. It combines a calm, mid-sized urban feel with a strong sense of local culture and history. The surrounding countryside offers easy access to waterfalls, canyons, and viewpoints that reward outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors enjoy the friendly neighborhoods, traditional markets, and the laid-back pace that characterizes this region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Catedral Nossa Senhora de Belém, where you can admire its neo-Gothic architecture and the beautiful stained glass windows. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the vibrant local culture and small shops. Stop at a local café to enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast, featuring fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee.
In the afternoon, explore the Museu Municipal de Guarapuava, where you can learn about the city's history and heritage through fascinating exhibits. After your museum visit, take a leisurely walk through the Praça 9 de Dezembro, a lively square that often hosts local events and festivals. Grab a light lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, sampling local dishes like feijoada or pastéis.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a popular local steakhouse, where you can savor the famous Brazilian barbecue, known as churrasco. After dinner, take a stroll along the beautiful illuminated streets of the city, soaking in the lively atmosphere. If you're up for it, visit a local bar to experience the vibrant nightlife and perhaps try a caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk or jog around Parque do Lago, a beautiful park featuring serene water views and lush greenery. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the lake, immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Keep an eye out for local bird species while you sip your coffee and take in the fresh air.
After a relaxing morning, rent a paddleboat for a fun afternoon on the lake, allowing you to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. Spend time exploring the park's walking trails, where you can admire the local flora and fauna. As lunchtime approaches, find a cozy spot in the park to enjoy a packed lunch or visit a nearby café for a delicious meal.
As evening falls, find a picnic spot as the sun sets over the lake, creating a stunning backdrop for your dinner. Enjoy a casual barbecue with friends or family, embracing the local tradition of dining outdoors. After your meal, relax under the stars, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of the park.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚶Public transport ticket (one-way) | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic nature and proximity to waterfalls and canyons
- Friendly locals and affordable travel costs
- Limited international flight options
- Smaller city infrastructure compared to larger capitals
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde é o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Guarapuava
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand church with architectural details and surrounding plaza that offer good morning light.
Historic central square framed by classic buildings, ideal for street photography and people-watching.
Urban lake park with walkways, bridges, and reflections—great for sunset shots.
Food in Guarapuava
Guarapuava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef stew traditionally served with floury sidings; a comforting, deeply flavored dish.
Must-Try!
Cooked seeds of the araucaria tree, often enjoyed as a snack or accompaniment.
Creamy or fried cornmeal porridge paired with melted cheese or sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional snacks.
Tasty bites like tapioca, pastel, and coxinha found around plazas and main avenues.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; wait for introductions before more informal gestures; addressing someone with polite 'senhor'/'senhora' is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud behavior in residential areas; ask before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Guarapuava
Ensure a smooth experience
Service not always included; consider rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants; tip bars and hotel staff for good service.
Cash (BRL) and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments are increasingly common; ATMs are plentiful in city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with potential afternoon showers; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities early in the day.
Mild temperatures and colorful foliage; comfortable for long walks and photo hunts.
Cool to cold nights; occasional frost; layers are essential and mornings can be crisp.
Moderate temperatures with refreshing rains; vibrant landscapes and blooming flora.
Guarapuava at Night
Hiking in Guarapuava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of Southern Brazil’s notable canyons with scenic hikes and viewpoints.
Forest trails featuring araucária trees and gentle to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Guarapuava by plane.
Major hub with frequent flights; about 300-350 km from Guarapuava; reachable by bus or car.
Regional airport offering domestic connections; about 250-300 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Growing presence due to universities and regional business.
An established mix of urban and rural families enjoying the city’s amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and weekend matches are common.
Popular in schools, clubs, and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guarapuava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Guarapuava, look for arroz e feijão, salads, grilled vegetables, and queijo; many places can prepare vegetarian options or adapt dishes.