Things To Do
in Nanuque

Hearty bean- and meat-based dishes—feijoada is a black-bean stew with pork, while feijão tropeiro mixes beans with manioc flour, sausage and egg; both are common in restaurants and weekend family meals.

Must-Try!

Cheesy baked tapioca rolls typical of Minas that you can find at bakeries and cafes across town—perfect with coffee for breakfast.

Sun-dried or grilled beef often served in churrascarias or family-run restaurants; expect regional sides like mandioca and rice.

Local dairy specialties—sweetened milk candy and fresh regional cheeses sold in markets and at roadside stalls.

The weekly open market and the municipal market are where locals buy produce, cheese, sweets and snack foods—try fresh fruit, pastel, acarajé-style variations (influenced by Bahia) and local cakes.

Small stands near popular river spots serving fried fish, cold drinks and simple snacks—good for an informal lunch after swimming or sightseeing.

Polite greetings matter—start with a handshake in formal situations; friends may exchange a single cheek kiss or hug. Use "bom dia" (good morning), "boa tarde" (good afternoon) and "boa noite" (good evening).

Locals are generally friendly and hospitable—accept invitations to sample local food and engage in small talk. Saying "por favor" (please) and "obrigado/obrigada" (thank you) is appreciated.

Casual dress is common; modest swimwear at rivers is acceptable but cover up in town. Public displays of anger are frowned upon—remain calm and courteous when negotiating or asking for help.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities or religious settings; some locals may expect a small payment for staged portraits.

Restaurants commonly add a 10% service charge; additional tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. For smaller services (taxis, porters) rounding up or leaving a small tip is normal.

Brazilian real (BRL) is used; cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted in restaurants and shops but smaller vendors and markets may be cash-only. Keep some cash for markets, street food and rural areas; ATMs are available in town but can run low on cash on weekends.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; river levels rise and waterfalls are most impressive. Bring rain gear, insect repellent and plan outdoor activities for mornings when possible.

Transition to drier weather with comfortable temperatures—good for hiking and sightseeing as rains diminish and trails dry out.

Milder, drier and cooler nights (especially in higher areas); this is a pleasant time for outdoor activities though mornings can be cool. Fewer mosquitoes and lower chance of rain.

Warming temperatures and the first rains return, with lush vegetation and wildflowers—good for photography but be prepared for sudden showers.

Regional airport serving Teófilo Otoni with connections to bigger hubs; accessible by bus or car from Nanuque and often used for regional travel.

Another regional option with flights to state capitals; reachable by road and used as an access point for the southern part of northeastern Minas Gerais.

Major airport in Espírito Santo offering domestic flights and more frequent connections; a longer drive but an option for wider flight choices.

The main international/regional gateway for Minas Gerais with many connections—farthest of the listed options but useful for international travel planning.

Vegetarian options are available but limited—look for vegetable stews, rice and beans, salads and cheese-based dishes; communicate clearly that you don’t eat meat ("sou vegetariano/vegetariana").

Vegan choices are more limited outside larger cities; carry snacks and ask for fruit plates, rice, beans (confirm no animal fat) and simple vegetable dishes.

Many traditional dishes use cassava/tapioca and are naturally gluten-free (pão de queijo is not, though tapioca-based preparations are). Ask about wheat flour in sauces and breads.

Inform staff about allergies in Portuguese if possible; small establishments may not understand complex dietary needs, so plan ahead and carry essentials.