Santa Mariana

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy delicious Brazilian pastries and strong coffee. Afterward, take a guided walking tour of Santa Mariana's historic center, visiting landmarks such as the Church of São Sebastião and the charming colonial architecture. Capture the vibrant street art that brings the city to life as you stroll through its picturesque streets.

Savor a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste regional dishes like feijoada or moqueca. Post-lunch, explore the Museu Histórico de Santa Mariana to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Spend some time at the local artisan market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Try some local delicacies while listening to live Brazilian music, which enhances the vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the city square, enjoying the lively ambiance and perhaps stopping for a dessert at an ice cream shop.

After an early breakfast, head to the Parque Estadual de Vila Velha for a morning immersed in nature. Begin your hike on one of the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of local wildlife. Be sure to take plenty of photos of the stunning rock formations and unique sandstone towers that define the park.

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning backdrop of the park, taking in the breathtaking views around you. In the afternoon, continue exploring the park’s diverse trails, perhaps visiting the famous Furnas and Vôo do Cão, natural wells that offer a glimpse into the area's geological history. Keep your eyes peeled for native bird species as you hike.

Head back to Santa Mariana and unwind at a casual eatery with a focus on regional cuisine. As you enjoy your meal, reflect on the day's adventures in nature and the beauty you experienced. If you're in the mood, stop by a local bar to enjoy a refreshing caipirinha while mingling with friendly locals.

Depending on the seasonal festivities, start your day by visiting a local market where vendors showcase traditional crafts and foods. Engage with locals and learn about the significance of the festival, which often includes music, dance, and food. Sample local delicacies as you wander through the vibrant stalls.

Join in on the festival activities, which may include parades, live music performances, and workshops showcasing traditional Brazilian arts. Participate in a dance class or a cooking demonstration to deepen your cultural experience. Enjoy lunch at a food stall, where you can try street food favorites like pastéis or acarajé.

As night falls, find a good spot to watch the grand parade, filled with colorful costumes and lively samba music. Celebrate with locals as they dance and cheer, creating an electrifying atmosphere. End your festival experience with a late-night snack from a food truck, enjoying the flavors of the region one last time.

After a hearty breakfast, make your way to the beautiful nearby beach, Praia de Pontal do Sul, known for its golden sands and soft waves. Rent some beach gear and spend the morning lounging under the sun or taking a refreshing dip in the ocean. If you're feeling adventurous, try out paddleboarding or kayaking along the coastline.

Join a local water sports instructor for an exciting surfing lesson, where you can learn the basics of riding the waves. Afterward, enjoy a beachside lunch at a casual restaurant, sampling fresh seafood dishes that highlight the coastal flavors. Relax on the beach, soaking up the sun or taking a stroll along the shore.

As the sun begins to set, find a cozy beach bar to enjoy a cocktail while watching the horizon turn vibrant shades of orange and pink. Indulge in some light snacks, like fish tacos or coconut shrimp, as you unwind from the day's activities. Conclude your beach day with a peaceful walk along the shore, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the sand.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a café, then set out to visit the nearby botanical garden, Jardim Botânico de Santa Mariana. Wander through the diverse plant collections, learning about native Brazilian species and their ecological significance. Take your time to enjoy the serene atmosphere, capturing photos of the beautiful flora.

After a guided tour of the garden, have lunch at a nearby eatery that features organic ingredients sourced from local farms. Spend the afternoon on a guided wildlife tour in the surrounding areas, where you can spot exotic birds and other local wildlife in their natural habitat. Engage with your guide to gain insights into conservation efforts in the region.

Return to Santa Mariana and enjoy a farm-to-table dinner, featuring dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the local community. As you dine, reflect on the incredible biodiversity you witnessed throughout the day. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local café for dessert and coffee, enjoying the warm ambiance and chatting with fellow travelers.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the historic train station for a scenic ride through the countryside. The train journey showcases stunning landscapes, including rolling hills and lush green valleys. As you travel, listen to the guide share stories about the region's history and the significance of the railway.

Arrive at a charming town known for its historical architecture and quaint shops, where you can explore on foot. Enjoy lunch at a local diner, sampling traditional dishes while soaking in the small-town atmosphere. Visit historical sites, such as old churches and museums, to learn more about the area's past.

Return to Santa Mariana by train, watching the sunset paint the sky in beautiful colors. Once back, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, relishing the flavors of the region. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town, appreciating the evening's peaceful ambiance and perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a cozy bar.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then head to a local culinary school for a hands-on cooking class focused on traditional Brazilian cuisine. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, learn to prepare regional specialties using fresh, local ingredients. Engage with fellow food enthusiasts, sharing stories and culinary tips as you cook.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor by indulging in the lunch you've prepared, savoring the rich flavors of authentic Brazilian dishes. Afterward, visit a local market to explore the ingredients that make up the region’s culinary identity, learning about their uses in traditional cooking. Take your time browsing the stalls, perhaps picking up a few items to recreate the dishes at home.

Conclude your culinary adventure with a dinner at a local restaurant that highlights seasonal ingredients and innovative twists on traditional recipes. Relish the vibrant atmosphere as you enjoy a meal that reflects the heart and soul of Santa Mariana’s food scene. Wrap up the evening by sharing your cooking experience with new friends over coffee at a cozy café, reflecting on the flavors of the day.