Things To Do
in Missões

Whole cuts of beef, sausages and offal slowly grilled over wood or charcoal; found at churrascarias and ranches—order the mixed rodízio at larger towns for variety.

Must-Try!

Hearty stewed beef or seasoned raw minced preparations at traditional eateries and festivals; ask locals where the best home-style versions are served.

Creamy cornmeal polenta often topped with local cheeses or ragù, a staple at family restaurants and colonial inns.

A rustic chicken-and-rice dish commonly cooked for communal meals and found at local taverns and weekend markets.

Weekly markets in towns like Santo Ângelo and São Miguel sell cheeses, breads, preserves and pastries—try fresh pão colonial and regional cheeses.

Look for salgados (filled pastries), pastel, and sweet cakes outside town squares and near churches during festivals; mate vendors offer chimarrão on-the-go.

Handshakes are common; friends and acquaintances often exchange one or two cheek kisses (right cheek first). Use formal titles (Senhor/Senhora) with elders until invited to use first names.

Many communities are devoutly Catholic; behave respectfully at churches, mission sites and during religious festivals—dress modestly when attending services.

Say bom dia/boa tarde (good morning/afternoon) when entering shops or meeting locals—polite small talk is appreciated in rural towns.

Casual, practical clothing is normal; for folkloric events or estância visits, wear sturdy shoes. Avoid loud or dismissive behavior at heritage sites.

A 10% service charge is common in restaurants and may be included on the bill; if not included, leaving 10% is customary for good service. Tip guides, drivers and hospitality staff modestly in cash, especially in rural areas where card payments are less convenient.

Brazilian reais (BRL) are used locally; credit/debit cards are accepted in larger towns and restaurants but many small vendors and rural establishments prefer cash. Carry local currency for markets, small purchases and tips; ATMs are found in main towns but may be sparse in villages.

(Dec–Feb) Warm to hot with higher humidity and frequent afternoon storms; ideal for longer daylight activities but pack rain gear and insect repellent.

(Mar–May) Mild temperatures and pleasant days with clearer skies; great time for sightseeing, photography and harvest-season festivals.

(Jun–Aug) Cooler to cold nights, occasional frost and rare light freezes—dress in layers; some rural services may reduce hours but winter can give crisp, clear photographic conditions.

(Sep–Nov) Warming temperatures, blooming countryside and variable weather—wind can be more noticeable but the landscape becomes lush and colorful.

Short interpretive walks around the mission site provide close views of ruins, native trees and informational panels—suitable for most visitors.

Private ranch trails vary by property and often require permission or a guided visit—excellent for photography, birdwatching and experiencing rural life.

Longer rural routes linking mission towns can be walked or cycled in stages, offering quiet country scenery, small chapels and local viewpoints.

Paths along local rivers and wetlands are good for short hikes and wildlife observation—best early morning or late afternoon.

Large communities of Portuguese, Spanish, Italian and German descent shape local customs, cuisine and architecture.

Gaucho culture is strong—ranching families, horsemanship traditions and folkloric societies keep regional identity vibrant.

Historical and cultural links to the Guarani people are central to the story of the Jesuit missions; indigenous influence appears in language, crafts and heritage interpretation.

Town-dwelling shopkeepers, artisans and service workers sustain local tourism, markets and hospitality.

Vegetarian options exist but are more limited than in big cities—polenta, salads, cheeses and egg dishes are common; bring snacks and be prepared to ask for vegetable sides or pasta dishes in advance.

Vegan choices are scarce in small towns; focus on fresh fruits, salads and sides at markets, and consider self-catering or seeking larger restaurants in Santo Ângelo for more options.

Gluten-free awareness is growing but not ubiquitous—communicate needs clearly in Portuguese and favor naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled meats, rice and vegetable preparations.

Carry translated allergy notes and emergency medication; small kitchens may lack strict cross-contamination controls.