Things To Do
in Pocinhos

Pocinhos is a small municipality in Paraíba, inland from the Atlantic coast. Nestled among the rolling hills of the Borborema plateau, it blends rural charm with a tight-knit community. Farm lands, friendly locals, and a slower pace give visitors a glimpse of authentic Northeast Brazilian life.

While the town is modest in size, its markets, churches, and landscapes offer plenty to explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Pocinhos
morning
:

Start your adventure with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh pão de queijo and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Pocinhos to appreciate its colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the central square to people-watch and soak up the morning sun.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the nearby natural reserve, where you can hike through lush trails and discover unique flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, relishing local specialties from a nearby market. As the sun begins to dip, capture stunning photographs of the landscape bathed in golden light.

evening
:

As night falls, savor dinner at a traditional restaurant, trying regional dishes like feijão verde and carne de sol. After the meal, explore the lively nightlife, where you'll find local music performances and cultural events happening in various venues. End your day with a stroll under the stars, reflecting on the beauty of Pocinhos.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the local art galleries that showcase the work of up-and-coming Brazilian artists. Engage with the artists and learn about their inspirations, while enjoying a morning coffee. This cultural immersion will set a vibrant tone for your day.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, participate in a workshop to learn a traditional craft, such as pottery or weaving, guided by local artisans. Create your own piece to take home as a memory of Pocinhos. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a family-run eatery, where recipes have been passed down through generations.

evening
:

Spend your evening at a cultural performance, experiencing local music and dance that reflect the unique history of the region. Mingle with locals and immerse yourself in their stories and traditions. As you wind down, relax at a cozy café, sipping on caipirinhas while listening to the rhythmic sounds of the night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or tea$1-3
🍽️Two-course lunch for two$20-35
🚌Public transport single ride$0.50-1
🛍️Market snacks or groceries (small purchase)$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, friendly community and authentic Northeast experience
  • Affordable prices and easy access to rural landscapes
  • Limited nightlife and fewer luxury amenities
  • Relatively long trips to major airports or larger cities
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Pocinhos

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Pocinhos

A classic church facade and quiet interior provide timeless subjects for architectural and travel photography.

Praça Central de Pocinhos

The central square at golden hour with local life, vendors, and colorful storefronts makes vivid street photography.

Ribeiro do Gado viewpoints

Open countryside and cattle-raising fields along rural roads offer sweeping landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pocinhos

Pocinhos sits in the rural Paraíba region where hearty Northeastern dishes define the table, featuring carne de sol, mandioca, queijo coalho, and comforting stews. Local meals emphasize bold flavors, slow-cooked meats, and plenty of fresh produce.

Pocinhos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carne de Sol com Macaxeira

Sun-dried beef served with fresh mandioca (macaxeira) moments of melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and a hearty Nordeste staple.

Must-Try!

Buchada de Bode

A traditional tripe and goat meat dish flavored with herbs; best found in regional eateries and family-run restaurants.

Queijo Coalho Grelhado

Grilled queijo coalho skewers, often served with a drizzle of honey or hot sauce, a popular street-side snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Pocinhos

A small market where you can taste local snacks, buy fresh fruits, and chat with vendors about the harvest.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a hot tropical climate typical of inland Paraíba, with high daytime temperatures all year and a distinct rainy season. Summers are long and humid, while winters are mild with cooler evenings. Rainfall concentrates mainly from April to August, bringing green landscapes briefly before the dry season returns. Overall, plan for warm weather most days and a few rainy periods depending on the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly “bom dia/boa tarde” and a handshake or cheek kiss among friends; politeness matters.

Social space and conversation

Show patience in conversations; interrupting is frowned upon and small talk is common during meals.

Respect for elders

Address older people with courteous forms like Senhor/Senhora and use formal language in unfamiliar settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pocinhos is generally safe in daytime with common-sense precautions; keep valuables secure in crowded spots and be aware of petty theft around markets. Night travel is best done in groups or with trusted locals and avoid poorly lit routes after dark. Health facilities are basic in town, so know where the nearest clinic or hospital is if you have an emergency. As with any travel, stay aware of weather-related hazards and road conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Tipping in Pocinhos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave 5–10% for good service in restaurants and a small amount for bar staff.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; keep some cash for smaller establishments and markets that may not take cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days are common; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn (Sept–Nov)

Milder temperatures and drier air; great for hikes and photography without excessive heat.

Winter (Jun–Aug)

Warm days with cool evenings; occasional showers can occur but the climate remains generally pleasant.

Spring (Mar–May)

Transition season with blooming landscapes and comfortable daytime temperatures; a good time for outdoor exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Pocinhos at Night

Pocinhos has a relaxed nightlife scene centered on casual bars and local music, especially forró and brega. Expect neighborhood gatherings, friendly crowds, and evenings that end at a comfortable hour rather than late-night clubbing. Restaurants may stay open later during festival periods or special events, offering live performances and regional dishes. Overall, the vibe is laid-back and welcoming, focusing on community and conversation rather than flashing nightlife.

Hiking in Pocinhos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Serra do Borborema foothills

Scenic trails with panoramic outlooks across farmland and country settlements.

Ribeiro do Gado countryside trails

Rural paths ideal for daytime walks and photography amid cattle ranches.

Airports

How to reach Pocinhos by plane.

João Pessoa–Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA)

Primary international airport serving the state; about 120–150 kilometers from Pocinhos with road connections via the BR-230 and BR-104 corridors.

Campina Grande–Presidente Vargas Airport (CPV)

Regional airport offering domestic flights; closer to Pocinhos and a common gateway for travelers heading to the Borborema region.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights within a short stroll from the main square; beyond the center, some streets are narrow or hilly and may require transport or a bicycle ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural residents

Many families living in surrounding countryside rely on agriculture and livestock.

Students and workers

Proximity to Campina Grande brings students and seasonal workers to Pocinhos.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region with local leagues, pickup games, and community clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads around Pocinhos are generally calm with light to moderate traffic; during peak commuting hours to Campina Grande there can be slower congestion on main routes, and bus services connect to nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pocinhos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted at casual eateries by substituting meat with beans, rice, and mandioca; look for fresh salads, legumes, and vegetable stews.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is mainly local clinics in Pocinhos with basic services; the nearest hospital and more comprehensive care are in Campina Grande or João Pessoa, reachable by road or bus.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide