Things To Do
in Maracaju

Maracaju is a charming municipality located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Known for its rich agricultural landscape and vibrant cultural heritage, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into rural Brazilian life. The town is famous for its traditional festivals and warm hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for travelers.

Surrounded by picturesque countryside, Maracaju serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local farmer's market where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museu Municipal de Maracaju to learn about the town's history and cultural heritage.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria, where you can savor a variety of grilled meats.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike the nearby Trilha do Córrego, a scenic trail that showcases the region's lush flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the Parque Natural Municipal, a beautiful park perfect for picnics and relaxation.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife at a lively bar featuring live music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Bus ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$30
🍻Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local festivals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Maracaju

Visit one of these nice places.

Cascata do Rio Maracaju

A stunning waterfall that provides a picturesque backdrop for photographs, especially during sunset.

Praça da Matriz

The main square in Maracaju, surrounded by historical buildings and vibrant gardens, perfect for capturing the essence of the town.

Parque Natural Municipal

A natural park where visitors can capture the diverse wildlife and lush landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Maracaju

Maracaju offers a rich culinary scene that reflects the flavors of the region, making it a delightful experience for food lovers.

Maracaju Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, cassava flour, and various spices, often served with meat.

Must-Try!

Picanha

A flavorful cut of beef that is grilled to perfection and often served in steakhouses.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where locals gather to buy fresh produce, meats, and regional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Maracaju experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season lasts from November to March, bringing heavy rainfall and higher humidity. The dry season, from April to October, offers cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 35°C (95°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly hug is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and casual attire is acceptable in most settings.

Dining Customs

It's polite to wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Maracaju is generally considered safe for tourists; however, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Local authorities are responsive, and it’s recommended to have emergency contact numbers at hand. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Maracaju

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, although service charges may already be included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used. It's advisable to carry some cash for markets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot and humid weather, ideal for outdoor activities but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (March - May)

Milder temperatures and less humidity make this a comfortable time to explore the region.

Winter (June - August)

Cooler temperatures with dry weather, perfect for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Spring (September - November)

As temperatures rise, flowers bloom and the landscape becomes vibrant, creating beautiful scenery for photography.

Nightlife Guide

Maracaju at Night

Maracaju has a lively nightlife scene, particularly on weekends, with various bars and clubs offering live music and dancing. Locals enjoy socializing in open-air venues, and you can find everything from traditional music to contemporary hits. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to mingle with locals and experience Brazilian culture.

Hiking in Maracaju

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Córrego

A scenic trail suitable for all levels of hikers, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Trilha da Serra

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Maracaju by plane.

Aeroporto de Maracaju

A small regional airport serving Maracaju, it offers limited domestic flights and connections to larger cities in Brazil.

Getting Around

Walkability

Maracaju is fairly walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. The streets are generally safe and well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a vehicle for longer distances or when visiting natural attractions outside the town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

A significant presence of indigenous groups contributes to the cultural diversity and traditions of the region.

European Descendants

Many residents are of European descent, particularly from Italy and Germany, influencing local culture and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Maracaju, with local teams and communities passionately supporting their players.

Rodeo

Rodeo events are popular in the region, showcasing traditional cowboy culture and attracting large crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Maracaju is generally light, particularly outside of peak hours. The town's layout allows for easy navigation by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis, which are affordable but may have limited schedules.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Maracaju.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Brazilian food is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; it's recommended to ask about options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Maracaju is accessible, with a few public hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are also available, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. In case of serious conditions, patients may need to be referred to larger hospitals in nearby cities.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide