Things To Do
in Ponto Novo
Ponto Novo is a small inland municipality in Bahia, Brazil, set among rolling hills and rural farms. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby rivers. Life here moves at a slower pace, with markets, family-run eateries, and traditional crafts shaping daily rhythms.
Travelers should expect warm hospitality, a relaxed tempo, and landscapes that shift with the rainy and dry seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming Praça da Matriz, where local vendors set up their stalls selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring pão de queijo and strong coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals.
Visit the Museu Municipal to learn about the rich history and culture of Ponto Novo, featuring exhibits that highlight local art and historical artifacts. For lunch, indulge in a hearty meal at a local restaurant, trying regional specialties like carne de sol and feijão verde. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour that introduces you to stories and legends of the town, immersing you in its unique heritage.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local bars or eateries for a taste of the lively nightlife. Enjoy live music featuring forró or sertanejo, dancing with locals and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap, perhaps a caipirinha, while chatting with new friends.
Begin your day early with a guided nature walk in the Parque Natural do Velho Chico, where you can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The morning light creates a magical atmosphere as you navigate through trails, spotting local wildlife and taking photographs. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by nature, listening to the sounds of the river and birds.
After your morning hike, enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverbank, soaking in the serene surroundings. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the Rio São Francisco, experiencing the river's beauty up close and possibly encountering local fishermen. The guides will share stories about the river's importance to the community and its ecological significance.
Return to Ponto Novo in the evening and unwind at a local restaurant with a riverside view. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh fish caught from the river, paired with a local craft beer. As night falls, reflect on the day's adventures while listening to the soothing sounds of the flowing river.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Water or soft drink | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕1 km taxi ride | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-3 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic staples) | $15-40 per week |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic Bahian experiences
- Relaxed pace, small-town charm, inexpensive prices
- Limited nightlife and tourist services
- Remote access may require longer travel times and careful planning
- "Oi" - Hi
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Não falo português muito bem" - I don’t speak Portuguese very well
- "Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite" - Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening
Places to Visit in Ponto Novo
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial churches, pastel-blue facades, and lively morning activity with vendors and lanterns.
Hilltop overlook offering views of the town and surrounding countryside at sunset.
Nearby waterfall and forested area ideal for nature shots and long-exposure photography.
Food in Ponto Novo
Ponto Novo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich fish stew with coconut milk, palm oil, peppers, and herbs, best enjoyed at family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Okra-based stew typically made with dried shrimp, served with rice, beans, and farofa.
Fried black-eyed pea balls served with spicy vatapá and pepper sauce; a Bahian street-food staple.
Grilled queijo coalho on skewers, often enjoyed with honey or herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, fish, cassava, and regional snacks.
Early-morning street markets where farmers sell fruit, beans, and regional sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello and good timing when entering shops; a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends.
Pace of life is relaxed; plan for late dinners and open-air markets in the mornings.
Ask for permission when photographing people or sacred spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; comfortable footwear for walking.
Safety
Tipping in Ponto Novo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants; many places include a service charge.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in larger establishments; some remote spots may be cash-only. Mobile payment options are growing in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer brings heat and humidity; expect afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Drier and slightly cooler days; comfortable for walking and outdoor markets.
Warm days with cooler evenings; rain showers possible in some years; layer clothing.
Lush vegetation and blooming trees; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Ponto Novo at Night
Hiking in Ponto Novo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge trail with panoramic valley views; moderate difficulty and shaded sections.
Forested path along a clear stream with opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Ponto Novo by plane.
Main gateway to Bahia; international and domestic flights; from here, rent a car or take a domestic flight to the interior.
Nearby small-airport serving the central Bahia region; suitable for regional travel and charter flights; often connects to bigger hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents live in surrounding countryside and small farms; traditional lifestyles persist.
Residents in the town center include service workers, students, and small-business owners.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Bahia; local leagues and informal games are common.
Traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art and dance practiced in community spaces and cultural centers.
Casual volleyball played on beaches or public courts during warm evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ponto Novo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bahian dishes can be vegetarian if you skip meat-based additions; opt for bean dishes, rice, cassava, and grilled vegetables; ask for plant-based options or à la carte preparations.