Things To Do
in Picos
Picos is a vibrant inland city in the Brazilian Northeast that serves as a gateway to the region’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage. The town blends a warm, tropical climate with a relaxed pace of life, where markets buzz with handmade crafts and street food. Surrounding hills and rivers offer easy day trips for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
With friendly locals, affordable prices, and a growing dining scene, Picos makes a welcoming base for exploring the semi-arid interior of northeastern Brazil.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Picos and soak in the delightful atmosphere of this charming town. Take a leisurely stroll through the local markets, absorbing the vibrant colors and scents of fresh produce. Savor a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café, enjoying the lively morning atmosphere.
Explore the historical center of Picos, visiting landmarks such as the Igreja de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. Engage with local artisans and discover their crafts, perhaps purchasing a unique souvenir. Enjoy a lunch featuring regional specialties, such as baião-de-dois, at a popular eatery.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in a local bar to relax with a refreshing Caipirinha. Listen to live music performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. End the day by mingling with locals and other travelers, sharing stories and laughter.
Gear up for an exhilarating day of canyoning in the stunning Serra da Capivara National Park. After a hearty breakfast, join a guided tour that takes you through breathtaking landscapes filled with waterfalls and cliffs. Engage in some safety training before plunging into the beautiful waters that await you.
Navigate through the canyons, swimming, climbing, and rappelling down cliffs as you connect with nature. Take in the awe-inspiring views and unique rock formations that are part of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the splendor of the park's natural beauty.
After a thrilling day, return to Picos and reflect on your adventure over dinner at a scenic restaurant. Try traditional dishes highlighting local ingredients and flavors. Wind down with a quiet evening walk through the town, appreciating the starry sky and peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚆Monthly transit pass | $15-25 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable prices and good value
- Warm, welcoming locals
- Gateway to interior Nordeste nature and culture
- Growing food scene with traditional flavors
- Limited nightlife compared to coastal cities
- Longer travel times from major hubs
- Facilities can be basic in rural areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Picos
Visit one of these nice places.
Early mornings or golden-hour light enhance the colonial-era façades and the square’s daily rhythm.
Several overlook points along the outskirts offer wide landscapes of hills, farmland, and waterways.
A short climb yields dramatic silhouettes of the town against the sunset and surrounding terrain.
Food in Picos
Picos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic combination of rice and beans with cheese or meat, often served as a comforting staple across the region.
Must-Try!
Sun-dried beef paired with cassava, a signature Northeast pairing that showcases regional techniques and flavors.
Sweet corn porridge, usually served hot or cold, with milk, coconut, or cinnamon—great for a comforting treat.
Corn-based dessert or breakfast porridge, rich and creamy, often spiced with cinnamon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can taste and buy local produce, spices, cassava-based snacks, and fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is standard; use polite forms like Senhor/Senhora in formal settings or with older people. Address elders with respect and avoid overly direct criticism in public.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in rural areas or markets, and respect local customs and religious sites.
Casual, modest clothing is typical in everyday settings. In religious spaces, follow guidelines and remove hats when inside.
Safety
Tipping in Picos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory. If service charge is not included, leaving 5–10% at restaurants is common; small eateries may appreciate rounding up the bill. Taxis and ride-hail services don’t require tips, but rounding up fare is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, hat, sunscreen, and light clothing; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warmer days with cooler nights; humidity tends to be lower; comfortable for outdoor exploration, though evenings can feel chilly in higher spots.
Heavy rainfall is common in some months; expect slick roads and lush vegetation. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bags.
Picos at Night
Hiking in Picos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic park with dramatic canyons and prehistoric rock art; a standout hiking and photography destination. A longer journey from Picos but reachable for a multi-day trip.
Gentle day hikes along surrounding hills offering panoramic views of rivers, farmland, and small settlements.
Airports
How to reach Picos by plane.
Major hub connecting the interior to national destinations; accessible by road from Picos.
Regional airport serving Piaú with connections to larger Brazilian cities.
Large international gateway in the region; longer drive but useful for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents living in the city core and nearby neighborhoods.
People living in villages and farms in the surrounding countryside.
A young population attracted by markets, schools, and job opportunities in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; local matches and informal play are common across neighborhoods.
Popular in schools, clubs, and beach areas when available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Picos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes center on beans, rice, and cassava. Look for Baião de Dois without meat or request cassava-based side dishes. In larger eateries, ask for vegetables or cheese as alternatives.