Things To Do
in Nova Esperança

A staple in southern Brazil — skewered, grilled beef and sausages served at local churrascarias and family gatherings. Look for meat cuts served with farofa (toasted manioc flour) and vinaigrette.

Must-Try!

Hearty national dish often served on weekends in town restaurants — a slow-cooked mix of beans and pork, accompanied by rice, orange slices and greens.

Cheesy bread rolls commonly found at bakeries and markets — perfect with coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Corn- and cassava-based sides and snacks appear frequently, including simple fried mandioca and soft polenta topped with sauces or cheese.

Handshakes are common on first meetings; friends and acquaintances often exchange one or two cheek kisses (right cheek first). Use polite forms like ‘senhor/senhora’ with older people and formal situations.

Casual dress is acceptable in town; modest attire is recommended for church visits. Be friendly and conversational — Brazilians appreciate warmth and small talk before business.

Portuguese is the language; learning basic phrases and using ‘por favor’ and ‘obrigado/obrigada’ goes a long way. Interrupting is sometimes more accepted than in other cultures, but always be respectful.

Ask permission before entering private farmland or taking photos of people working. Bringing a small gift (local sweets or coffee) when visiting a household is appreciated.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants a 10% service charge is common and often included on the bill — if not, leaving around 10% is customary. For taxi drivers, small rounding up is normal; for guides and hotel porters, small cash tips are appreciated.

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely used in markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and shops, but connectivity can be intermittent in rural areas — carry cash for small purchases and remote services. Mobile payments and contactless cards are becoming more common but not universal.

Hot, humid and often rainy — heavy afternoon storms are common. Plan outdoor activities for mornings and evenings; expect vibrant green landscapes and active insect life.

Milder temperatures and gradually drier weather make this a comfortable time for exploring; fields may be busy with harvest activities.

Cooler, dry days with chilly nights and occasional light frost inland. Daytime is pleasant for outdoor activities, but bring a warm layer for evenings.

Warming temperatures and flowering trees; good time for birdwatching and seeing rural landscapes come to life. Some rain returns late in spring.

Short, family-friendly trails near town ideal for morning walks, birdwatching and easy photography — generally flat and well-marked.

Unmarked but scenic routes across private farm tracks (ask permission) that offer longer walks through fields, tree lines and rural landscapes; best with a local guide or host.

Gentle trails along small rivers and reservoirs suited for relaxed hikes, fishing stops and nature observation; bring insect repellent and water.

Within a couple hours’ drive are larger protected areas and state parks offering established hiking trails and more diverse native vegetation — these require a day trip by car and may have entry rules or fees.

The nearest major airport providing scheduled domestic flights and connections to larger Brazilian hubs; typically a 1–2 hour drive depending on exact location and traffic — car or intercity bus services connect to Nova Esperança.

Another regional airport serving the north-central Paraná region with domestic flights. It’s a longer drive than Maringá but can offer alternative schedules and connections to reach the area.

A significant portion of the population is connected to agriculture — cultivating soy, corn, cattle and related industries.

Long-standing family units run shops, bakeries, restaurants and local services that form the town’s economic core.

Some residents commute to larger nearby cities for education and employment, blending rural roots with urban connections.

A mix of Brazilian ethnic backgrounds including descendants of Portuguese and European immigrants, as well as indigenous and Afro-Brazilian communities present in the region.