Things To Do
in Raul Soares
Raul Soares is a small municipality in Minas Gerais, Brazil, set among rolling hills and rural landscapes. The town serves as a gateway to the Vale do Rio Doce region where greenery and orchards dominate the countryside. Agriculture, dairy farming, and small-scale mining support the local economy, giving the town a rugged yet welcoming feel.
Visitors can enjoy quiet streets, local churches, and scenic viewpoints that showcase rural Minas Gerais.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Raul Soares, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets lined with shops and galleries that showcase local artistry.
In the afternoon, make your way to the city's main square, Praça da Matriz, where you can observe the daily life of the locals. Visit the Museu Municipal to learn about the rich history and culture of Raul Soares through its various exhibits. Take a moment to relax in the shade of the trees and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant offering traditional Brazilian dishes. Experience the lively nightlife with some live music at a nearby bar, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy the vibrant energy. End your evening with a leisurely walk under the stars, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in the nearby Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, where you'll encounter diverse flora and fauna. Listen to the sweet melodies of the birds and spot colorful species as you explore the lush trails. The cool morning air is perfect for capturing stunning photographs of the landscape.
After a picnic lunch in the park, continue your exploration by visiting the park's observation towers for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Spend time birdwatching, keeping an eye out for rare species that call this region home. Engage with your guide to learn more about the ecosystems and conservation efforts in place.
Return to Raul Soares in the early evening and unwind at a local café with a refreshing drink. Reflect on your day’s discoveries in nature while enjoying a light dinner at one of the cozy eateries. If you're up for it, take a stroll through the town to see how it transforms under the evening lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee/coffee shop | $1-3 |
| 🚎Local transit ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil town with friendly locals
- Beautiful rural landscapes and nearby nature
- Affordable dining and lodging
- Good base for Serra do Caparaó hikes
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Some services may be basic compared to larger cities
- Long drives to major airports and attractions
- Seasonal weather can affect outdoor plans
- "Olá, tudo bem?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você aceita cartão de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Raul Soares
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square framed by the town church and classic municipal buildings, great for dawn light.
A hillside viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas of the valley and surrounding hills.
Historic street with colonial façades and colorful doors ideal for street photography.
Food in Raul Soares
Raul Soares Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese bread that's piping hot and commonly found in bakeries and snack bars throughout the town.
Must-Try!
A hearty bean dish with cassava flour, bacon, and pork bits, often served with arroz and greens.
A creamy dish made from mashed beans and farofa, typically served with meat or eggs.
Grilled cheese curd served on a skewer, a popular street snack.
Sweet milk-based desserts and goiabada, often enjoyed with queijo.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can taste fresh dairy products, produce, and local snacks.
Weekly farmer markets offering homemade preserves, coffee, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or cheek kiss among friends; address elders as Senhor/Senhora.
Polite conversation includes asking about family and health; avoid sensitive topics like politics in casual settings.
Keep hands on the table, not elbows on the table; compliment home-cooked meals; wait for everyone to be served before eating.
Safety
Tipping in Raul Soares
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is customary but not mandatory; many restaurants add service charges; if not included, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and smaller shops. ATM access is common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec-Feb is hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
Mar-May brings cooler days and dry nights; pleasant for walking and scenic photography.
Jun-Aug can be cool and dry, with chilly nights; layers are recommended.
Sep-Nov warms up with blooming vegetation; ideal for hiking and markets.
Raul Soares at Night
Hiking in Raul Soares
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged mountain trails with panoramic valley views; suitable for day hikes with proper gear.
Airports
How to reach Raul Soares by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights; expect a drive to Raul Soares.
Domestic flights; convenient access by road to Raul Soares; several hours by car.
Major international gateway; longer drive but frequent connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing residents with strong community ties.
People involved in agriculture and surrounding farm operations.
Residents who travel to nearby towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues, informal street games, and community events.
Common in schools, clubs, and beach-like local courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Raul Soares.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adjusted to vegetarian by omitting meat; ask for feijão tropeiro sem carne and cheese-based options.