Things To Do
in Rio Azul

Brazilian-style barbecue with various cuts of grilled beef, pork and chicken; small-town churrascarias offer an authentic experience and are the best places to try it.

Must-Try!

Cheese bread — a ubiquitous snack from local bakeries, perfect with morning coffee or as a quick bite at the market.

Polenta and records of Italian/Polish-influenced home cooking appear in local 'cantinas' and family restaurants; look for meat stews, sausages and sweet preserves.

A traditional infusion served in a gourd and shared socially — common across southern Brazil and an important local custom.

Typical open-air market where producers sell fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads, sweets and snacks; ideal to try local cakes, pão de queijo and homemade preserves.

Look for small stalls and neighborhood bakeries serving coffee, salgados (savory pastries) and regional sweets — the best way to taste everyday local flavors.

Greet people with a friendly 'Olá' or handshake; acquaintances of the same gender may exchange one cheek kiss in informal settings — follow the locals' lead.

Use 'por favor' and 'obrigado/obrigada' regularly; showing respect to elders and farm owners goes a long way in small communities.

Casual dress is normal, but modest clothing is appropriate when visiting churches and religious events. Keep noise levels low in residential areas at night.

Locals are hospitable — accepting invitations to a home meal is a meaningful cultural exchange; bring a small gift (sweets or wine) when invited.

A 10% service charge is common in many restaurants (check your bill); if service charge is not included, leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated but not mandatory. Tip small amounts to guides and drivers directly.

Brazilian real (BRL) is used; cash is handy for markets, small shops and rural vendors. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most restaurants and stores in town, but connectivity can be spotty — inform your bank of travel plans and keep some cash handy.

Warm, humid and often rainy — afternoons can bring heavy showers. Summers are best for waterfall visits (full flow) and swimming, but bring a light rain jacket and insect repellent.

Milder temperatures and clearer skies; some areas with araucaria and deciduous trees show subtle color changes. Comfortable for hiking and outdoor photography.

Cool to cold mornings and nights with occasional frosts; temperatures can dip significantly compared with coastal Brazil. Pack warm layers — winter is dry and offers crisp air for clear views.

Flowering season with green landscapes and increasing rainfall toward late spring; good for birdwatching as migratory species return and plants bloom.

A short to moderate hike through forest to a scenic waterfall with a natural pool; good for swimming on warm days. Trail conditions vary — sturdy shoes recommended.

A ridge walk offering panoramic views over the valley at sunrise or sunset; accessible with a short drive and a brief uphill walk.

Gentle trails through a local municipal woodland area ideal for family walks, birdwatching and low-effort nature outings.

Longer routes into surrounding highlands and araucaria pockets for more experienced hikers — expect steeper terrain and changing weather; bring water and a map or guide.