Things To Do
in Mantena
Mantena is a small city in southeastern Brazil set amid rolling hills and lush countryside. It serves as a tranquil gateway to the Doce River valley with a mix of rural charm and modest urban amenities. The town blends colonial-era architecture with growing cafes, markets, and local crafts.
Visitors can expect warm hospitality, scenic drives, and an authentic slice of regional Brazilian life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll around the Historic Center of Mantena, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Visit the Igreja de São Pedro, a beautiful church that showcases the historical essence of the town.
In the afternoon, enjoy a delicious lunch at a quaint restaurant, trying regional dishes such as 'feijão tropeiro' and 'pão de queijo'. Continue your exploration by visiting the Museu de Mantena, which offers insights into the town's rich cultural heritage. As the sun begins to set, take a walk through the Parque Municipal, where you can relax among beautiful gardens.
In the evening, indulge in dinner at a popular local eatery known for its grilled meats and fresh salads. After dinner, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by visiting a live music venue where you can listen to samba and forró. End your day with a stroll along the riverbank, taking in the peaceful ambiance.
Rise early and head to the breathtaking Serra do Brigadeiro National Park, which is about an hour’s drive from Mantena. Engage in a guided hike through lush trails, where you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna unique to this region. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature as you make your way to a scenic viewpoint.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Continue your exploration with a visit to the park's waterfalls, where you can take refreshing dips in the cool waters. As you hike back, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including colorful birds and playful monkeys.
Return to Mantena and unwind at a local café, sipping on a refreshing coconut water or açaí smoothie. For dinner, try a traditional 'churrasco' at a nearby grill house, enjoying the lively atmosphere. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the town square, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy the vibrant community spirit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛢️Gasoline (1 liter) | $1-1.50 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $250-450 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil small-town atmosphere with authentic regional flavor
- Access to scenic hills, nature trails, and rural landscapes
- Affordability and welcoming locals
- Growing assortment of cafés and regional eateries
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Public transportation can be sparse outside the town center
- Less infrastructure for large-scale events or tour services
- Shopping and entertainment options may be slower or more limited
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Desculpe, não falo muito bem Português" - Sorry, I don’t speak Portuguese very well
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Mantena
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, colonial façades, and a lively square; best during golden hour when the light flatters the architecture.
Elevated hillside viewpoint offering broad views of the valley and surrounding hills; sunset shots here are particularly rewarding.
Historic bridge with reflections in calm water and a backdrop of green hills; a classic location for quiet, atmospheric photos.
A forested trail with dappled light, mossy rocks, and bird activity—great for nature photography and close-up wildlife shots.
Open fields and grazing livestock during sunset provide warm, painterly silhouettes around the outskirts of town.
Food in Mantena
Mantena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fish stew from Espírito Santo made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, coconut milk, and palm oil; best enjoyed at seaside-inspired eateries or in Mantena’s seafood-focused spots.
Must-Try!
Classic Brazilian cheese bread, soft and chewy, widely available at bakeries and cafés around town.
A hearty dish of beans with cassava flour, sausage, eggs, and herbs; a staple comfort food in the interior.
A warm bean broth often served with rice, perfect for cooler evenings in Mantena’s hill country.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can buy fresh produce, queijo, frutas tropicais, and regional snacks.
Weekly producer markets with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and homemade treats straight from local farms.
Casual street stalls offering salgados, milho verde, and fresh juices in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact is typical when meeting someone, followed by polite conversation. In social settings among friends, a hug or cheek kiss may occur.
Portuguese is the predominant language. Polite phrases and a friendly tone go a long way; attempting basic Portuguese is appreciated.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in private spaces or markets. Dress modestly in religious or traditional settings.
Safety
Tipping in Mantena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service is not included, a tip of around 5–10% is common in restaurants and bars, while hotel staff may appreciate a small gratuity for special services. In casual cafés or markets, rounding up the bill is appreciated but not expected.
Cash in BRL and debit/credit cards are widely accepted. Many places also support mobile payments and contactless options; carrying some cash is useful for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms. Pack lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a compact rain jacket.
Milder temperatures with more dry days and comfortable evenings. A good time for outdoor walks and photography with softer light.
Cooler nights and cooler mornings; days are often dry and pleasant for exploration. Bring a light jacket for early mornings and evenings.
Warming temperatures with variable rainfall. Great for hiking and outdoor markets; carry a light rain layer and insect repellent.
Mantena at Night
Hiking in Mantena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hillside trail with panoramic valley views and shaded sections, suitable for a half-day hike.
A network of short cascades and streams through local forests, ideal for nature photography and a refreshing outing.
Gentle climbs along agricultural terraces and forest edges, offering sweeping views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Mantena by plane.
Major regional airport in Espírito Santo with domestic flights; provides access to Mantena via road connections and regional travel.
Airport serving the Vale do Rio Doce region; practical for travelers coming from or passing through MG and nearby ES towns; road transfer to Mantena is available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families involved in agriculture and small businesses with temperate urban centers and community-oriented neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local games and informal matches are common in parks and school grounds.
Played in gyms and community centers; weekends see pickup games and recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mantena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy beans, rice, fresh vegetables, and cheese-based dishes. Look for moqueca capixaba prepared without meat, salads, veggie wraps, and pão de queijo. When ordering, ask for vegetables cooked with minimal oil and request sauces on the side.