Things To Do
in Novo Horizonte

Novo Horizonte is a small municipality located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, known for its charming rural landscape and friendly atmosphere. The region is primarily agricultural, with a strong focus on coffee and sugarcane production. Its lush green hills and clear waterways make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The local culture is rich with traditions and offers a glimpse into the life of rural Brazil.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Novo Horizonte
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local coffee plantation to learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy a tasting session.

afternoon
:

Explore the town center, visiting the local artisan shops and the historical church, Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse (churrascaria), where you can enjoy a variety of grilled meats.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike in the nearby Parque Estadual de Morungaba, enjoying the beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample street food and purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening by the river, perhaps with a picnic dinner while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Fast food meal$5
🏨Hotel room per night$30
🚌Bus ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local culture.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Less English spoken compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer tourist facilities and amenities.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Novo Horizonte

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de São Sebastião

This historical church features beautiful architecture and is a great spot for capturing local culture.

Parque Estadual de Morungaba

A stunning natural park with lush landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Lagoa de Novo Horizonte

A serene lake surrounded by greenery, ideal for sunset and wildlife photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Novo Horizonte

Novo Horizonte offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of rural Brazil, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

Novo Horizonte Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Feijoada

A traditional Brazilian stew of beans with pork or beef, often served with rice and orange slices.

Must-Try!

Pão de queijo

A popular cheese bread made from cassava flour, chewy and delicious.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant local market held on weekends, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food.

Pastel de Feira

Fried pastries filled with various ingredients, often sold at street stalls during market days.

Climate Guide

Weather

Novo Horizonte generally enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Summers can be hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters are mild, with averages between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rain is common in the summer months, while the winter is typically drier.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when greeting locals.

Punctuality

While social gatherings may be relaxed regarding time, it's best to be punctual for business meetings.

Dress Code

Casual clothing is acceptable, but modesty is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Novo Horizonte is considered relatively safe for tourists, but basic precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. It's advisable to stay informed about local news and follow any safety recommendations from locals.

Tipping in Novo Horizonte

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures cool down, making it a great time for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Winter (June to August)

Mild temperatures prevail, and the weather is generally dry, ideal for visiting local festivals.

Spring (September to November)

The weather warms up again, flowers bloom, and it’s a beautiful time to enjoy nature.

Nightlife Guide

Novo Horizonte at Night

Novo Horizonte has a laid-back nightlife with a few bars and clubs that offer live music, especially on weekends. Locals often gather for socializing and enjoying drinks, and you can experience traditional Brazilian music such as Sertanejo and Forró. The atmosphere is friendly, making it a great place to meet new people and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Novo Horizonte

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Chapéu

A scenic trail leading to a viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Trilha da Pedra Branca

A moderately challenging hike that offers stunning views and opportunities for birdwatching along the way.

Airports

How to reach Novo Horizonte by plane.

Aeroporto de São Paulo

The nearest major airport is approximately 300 km away in São Paulo, offering extensive domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Novo Horizonte is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within a short walking distance from each other. However, some attractions may require a vehicle or a short taxi ride, especially those located outside the town center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Agricultural Workers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, particularly coffee and sugarcane production.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Novo Horizonte, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A beloved sport in Brazil, with many local teams and community matches held regularly.

Volleyball

Popular in both beach and indoor settings, volleyball is commonly played in local parks and recreational areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Novo Horizonte experiences light traffic, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the town, though many locals prefer to walk for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novo Horizonte.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Brazilian cuisine often includes meat, many places offer vegetarian dishes such as rice, beans, and salads.

Gluten-Free Choices

Dishes like feijoada and grilled meats are naturally gluten-free, but it’s advisable to ask about sauces and side dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Novo Horizonte includes a few clinics and hospitals that offer basic services. For more serious medical needs, residents often travel to larger cities nearby. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide