Things To Do
in Nova Crixás

Nova Crixás is a small municipality in Goiás, Brazil, set amid the grasslands and rivers of the Cerrado. The town offers a laid-back, rural atmosphere with friendly locals and easy access to natural landscapes. It serves as a quieter base for exploring nearby rivers, waterfalls, and savanna trails.

Visitors can enjoy fresh, regional cuisine, straightforward markets, and outdoor adventures just outside the town center.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Nova Crixás
morning
:

Arrive in Nova Crixás and take some time to settle into your accommodations. Unwind by enjoying a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh fruits and pão de queijo. Gather information about the local attractions and make plans for your exciting journey ahead.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the town and explore its charming streets, including colorful murals and local craft shops. Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Nova Crixás, discovering the stories of its founding. Relish a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves regional specialties.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant with a view of the river. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals as they share tales of the town's culture. Conclude the day by relaxing at your accommodation, soaking in the sounds of the evening.

day 2
Exploring the Chapada dos Veadeiros
morning
:

Embark on an early morning journey to the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Hike through scenic trails where you can spot unique flora and fauna, and marvel at breathtaking waterfalls. Prepare for an active day by packing water and snacks for the hike.

afternoon
:

Continue exploring the park, taking in the incredible vistas and perhaps having a picnic lunch by one of the park's impressive waterfalls. Engage in adventurous activities like swimming or photographing the vibrant nature around you. As the sun rises higher, discover tranquil spots to rest and reflect.

evening
:

After a day filled with adventure, return to Nova Crixás to freshen up. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local grill, savoring regional meats and flavors. Spend the evening under the stars, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers or locals in the town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
Café or bakery item$1-3
🏨Budget hotel night$25-60
🚕Short taxi ride$4-8
🍽️Two-person dinner at mid-range restaurant$25-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
  • Good access to Cerrado nature and river activities
  • Affordable to visit and easy to combine with longer trips in Goiás
  • Limited nightlife and fewer English speakers
  • Rural transport can be slower and less predictable
  • Some services and facilities may be basic compared to bigger cities
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "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?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Nova Crixás

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça Matriz and Igreja

Central square with a colonial-style church; early morning light and people-watching make for classic city photography.

Mirante do Cerrado

Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views over savanna, rivers, and distant plains, especially dramatic at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nova Crixás

Goiano cuisine highlights hearty meat dishes, dairy products, and regional ingredients like pequi; expect flavors that are rustic, comforting, and satisfying.

Nova Crixás Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz com Pequi

Rice cooked with the aromatic pequi fruit, a Goiás specialty; try it at local eateries.

Must-Try!

Galinhada

A hearty chicken and rice dish, often seasoned with saffron-like spices and peppers.

Pamonha

Corn-based tamale, can be sweet or savory, commonly found at markets and street stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Nova Crixás

A local market where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, cassava flour, and regional snacks.

Feiras de produtores

Weekly producer markets offering fruit, honey, and homemade cheeses; great for sampling fresh goiano goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a tropical savanna climate with a pronounced wet season (roughly October–April) and a dry season (May–September). Average high temperatures typically range from the upper 20s to mid-30s Celsius, and humidity can be high during the rainy months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a handshake and say 'Bom dia/Boa tarde'; use 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' with older adults.

Language and conversation

Portuguese is the primary language; a few phrases help; avoid sensitive political topics in casual conversations.

Photography

Ask for permission before photographing people; be mindful in religious or rural settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in many rural towns, petty theft can occur; keep valuables secure and use reputable transport at night. Take standard precautions when exploring river areas and remote trails; inform someone of your plans and avoid isolated spots after dark.

Tipping in Nova Crixás

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, wear sunscreen, and be prepared for sudden rain.

Autumn

Transition to drier, milder days; comfortable mornings and cooler nights; still occasional showers.

Winter

Dry season with cooler nights; mornings can be cool, but daytime warmth returns; great for outdoor activities.

Spring

Lush landscapes as rains begin again; blooming plants and active wildlife; good for hiking and birding.

Nightlife Guide

Nova Crixás at Night

The nightlife in Nova Crixás is low-key, with local bars offering beer and live sertanejo or folk music on weekends. Some lodges and riverside venues host informal evening gatherings; for bigger offerings, residents often travel to nearby towns with more options.

Hiking in Nova Crixás

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerrado Ridge Trail

A scenic loop through savanna grasses with occasional viewpoints over rivers and open plains.

Riverbank Walk

Gentle trail along a shaded river corridor, good for birdwatching and photography.

Airports

How to reach Nova Crixás by plane.

Goiânia Airport (Santa Genoveva)

Regional hub with connections to major Brazilian cities; about a few hours' drive from Nova Crixás.

Brasília International Airport

Major international airport with many connections; about a 2-3 hour drive from town.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights and eateries within a short stroll. Surrounding rural and natural areas typically require a car or taxi to access, but distances are manageable for day trips.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural families

Most residents are involved in agriculture or local trades and live in nearby villages and farms.

Young families and retirees

Smaller communities of people seeking a quieter lifestyle near nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Futebol)

The most popular sport; local matches and casual games are common in parks and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Main roads are accessible; intercity buses connect to Goiânia and Brasília. In town, traffic is light and taxis are common; rural roads can be unpaved or rough in places, especially after heavy rains.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Crixás.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most dishes are meat-based; look for rice, beans, mandioca, salads, and cheese-based plates; ask for 'sem carne' or 'sem carne e sem linguiça'.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in the town (UBS) with more comprehensive services in Goiânia or Brasília; carry travel insurance and keep essential medications. For emergencies, head to larger regional hospitals in bigger cities.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide