Things To Do
in Sacramento
Sacramento, Brazil is a historic riverside town in the interior that blends colonial architecture with lush Cerrado landscapes. The town is known for its warm hospitality, colorful markets, and a pace of life that invites slow travel. Its surrounding nature offers waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic vistas along the São Francisco River.
Visitors can sample Minas Gerais-inspired cuisine and explore museums that reveal the region's mining and agricultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Praça da República, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture and the vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors. Stop by a traditional café for a breakfast of pão de queijo and fresh Brazilian coffee while soaking in the sights. Don't miss visiting the Municipal Market to browse through local produce and artisanal goods.
After lunch at one of the nearby restaurants featuring regional cuisine, dedicate your afternoon to exploring the rich history at the Museu Histórico de Sacramento. The museum offers informative exhibits on the town's past and cultural heritage, providing a deep dive into the local traditions. As the day wanes, take a scenic walk along the Rio Sacramento, enjoying the serene river views.
As night falls, savor a delightful dinner at a local churrascaria where you can indulge in the flavors of traditional Brazilian barbecue. After your meal, head to a nearby bar to experience live samba music and dance, immersing yourself in the lively local culture. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the night ambiance.
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the Parque Natural Municipal, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The morning sun filters through the trees, creating a peaceful ambiance as you explore the various trails. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to spot the numerous bird species that thrive in this natural haven.
After a morning filled with exploration, find a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend your afternoon relaxing by one of the park's tranquil ponds, where you can read a book or simply soak in the serene environment. Consider joining a guided nature walk to learn more about the local flora and fauna from an expert.
As the sun sets, head back to Sacramento for dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant that highlights seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a cozy meal while reflecting on the day’s adventures in nature. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the park again, now under the stars, to experience the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transit ride | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $50-90 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Excellent regional cuisine and markets
- Access to nature and waterfalls
- Compact center is easy to explore on foot
- Limited big-city amenities
- Seasonal heat and humidity can be high
- Some areas can be quiet after dark; occasional safety precautions needed
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "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 Sacramento
Visit one of these nice places.
18th-century church with a baroque façade and a bell tower, ideal for golden-hour shots.
The heart of town with colorful buildings, a monument, and lively markets; great for street photography.
Bridge over the river offering reflective water scenes at dawn or dusk.
Hilltop viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape and distant waterfalls.
Food in Sacramento
Sacramento Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly baked cheese bread made with Minas Gerais queijo and served warm, a staple at morning markets.
Must-Try!
Savory beans with cassava flour, eggs, and bits of pork, a hearty staple often enjoyed with rice and collard greens.
Rice cooked with beef or pork, peppers, and spices, reflecting ranching traditions of the region.
Local artisanal Minas cheese paired with honey or sweet marmalades for a simple indulgence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh fruit, cheese, cured meats, and snack stalls where you can try tarts and pastel de queijo.
Outdoor stalls serving pastel, coxinha, tapioca, and fresh juice, ideal for quick bites between sights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A smile and a handshake or cheek kiss between friends; say bom dia/boa tarde when meeting strangers.
People may be relaxed about time; plan extra time for conversations and meals.
Keep hands visible on the table; finish plates but avoid rushing the staff; tasting is common.
Safety
Tipping in Sacramento
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in larger restaurants; if not, leave a 5-10% tip. Small tips to taxi drivers or hotel staff are appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Cash (BRL) is handy for markets; mobile payments and Pix are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, sun protection, and a light rain jacket.
Milder temperatures and fewer rains; ideal for outdoor walking and riverside strolling.
Cooler evenings, occasional crisp mornings; layers recommended, especially for early hikes.
Pleasant and blooming; great for photography and outdoor markets.
Sacramento at Night
Hiking in Sacramento
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic waterfall trail with shaded paths and a refreshing pool.
A moderate climb offering panoramic views of the town and river.
Airports
How to reach Sacramento by plane.
Major international and domestic hub about 300 km from Sacramento; taxis or bus connections available to reach the town.
Regional airport about 260-300 km away; often used for domestic connections.
Smaller airport in the north; useful for faster access to some routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families and retirees in a tranquil town; students from nearby towns also frequent the area.
Domestic travelers and eco-tourists seeking nature and regional culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The country’s favorite sport, played in fields and on beach weekends when possible.
Beaches and riverbanks host volleyball games and social matches.
Amateur rugby and running clubs are common in larger events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sacramento.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; opt for feijão tropeiro with extra greens or arroz com legumes.
Most Minas dishes are naturally gluten-free; ask for rice, beans, grilled meats, and salads without breading.