Things To Do
in Santo Augusto
Santo Augusto is a small inland town in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, known for its agricultural roots and friendly community. Set amid rolling fields and rural landscapes, the town offers a quiet retreat from busier cities. Gaúcho traditions shape its food, music, and daily life, making hospitality a hallmark of any visit.
Visitors can explore the town center, markets, and nearby nature trails for a relaxed, authentic southern Brazilian experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Historic Center of Santo Augusto, where you'll wander through charming cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings. As you explore, stop by local cafes for a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and fresh coffee. Don't forget to visit the local artisan shops to pick up unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in regional cuisine, continue your exploration by visiting the Municipal Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Take a leisurely stroll through the town square, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and vibrant local life. For a bit of relaxation, find a shady spot in the square to people-watch and soak in the local ambiance.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant that offers a view of the city skyline. Sample regional dishes like churrasco or feijoada while listening to live music that often features local musicians. After dinner, take a stroll through the lit streets and enjoy the warm evening atmosphere of Santo Augusto.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk at the nearby Parque Nacional da Serra Geral, where you can immerse yourself in the lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The early morning hours are perfect for birdwatching, as you may spot colorful toucans and other exotic birds. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by the sounds of nature before continuing your trek.
After your morning adventure, head back to town for a hearty lunch at a local eatery known for its fresh produce. In the afternoon, return to the park for a more in-depth exploration of its trails, taking in breathtaking views from various viewpoints along the way. Capture stunning photos of the landscape and wildlife as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
As the day winds down, find a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy a meal under the stars. Order some traditional Brazilian barbecue and share stories about your day's adventures. Finish the evening with a relaxing walk along the riverbank, where you can appreciate the tranquil beauty of Santo Augusto at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or local drink | $1-3 |
| 🚎One-way local transport | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-40 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil town with friendly locals
- Close-knit community and authentic Gaúcho culture
- Easy access to nature and short day trips
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Fewer direct international flight options; longer travel times
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Santo Augusto
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square with colorful market stalls, stately trees, and morning light ideal for candid street photography.
Historic church with classic façades and stained-glass details perfect for architectural photography.
A small riverside overlook near the town edge offering views of fields and hills at golden hour.
Vibrant market exterior with baskets, textiles, and locals in daily activity—great for color-rich portraits.
Food in Santo Augusto
Santo Augusto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Brazilian barbecue with assorted beef and pork cuts, typically served with rice, beans, and farofa at local churrascarias and family gatherings.
Must-Try!
A hearty rice dish cooked with dried meat, onions, garlic, and spices—perfect for a rustic meal after a day outdoors.
Roasted or boiled pine nuts from araucária trees, commonly enjoyed as a snack or accompaniment to mate.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks from local vendors.
Weekly open-air markets where you can taste street snacks, sip mate, and buy handmade crafts.
Stalls offering pastel, queijo (cheese) pastries, and other quick bites popular with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and a handshake; address adults as Senhor/Senhora; make polite small talk when meeting locals.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Augusto
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in larger establishments, but leaving a tip of 5-10% or rounding up is appreciated in casual places.
Cash is widely accepted; debit/credit cards are common; Pix is increasingly used for instant transfers; some small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with humidity; expect afternoon thunderstorms and lush landscapes; sun protection and hydrating beverages are essential.
Mild temperatures with pleasant skies; foliage changes add warm tones to countryside photography and hillside walks.
Cool to mild days with nights that can be chilly; bring a light jacket and enjoy quieter streets and fewer crowds.
Fresh greenery and blooming trees; comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and markets.
Santo Augusto at Night
Hiking in Santo Augusto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short scenic loop with viewpoints over farmland and gentle hills, suitable for beginners.
A forested trail near a local farm, offering shade, birds, and a peaceful retreat.
Airports
How to reach Santo Augusto by plane.
The region’s largest gateway with many national and international connections; reachable by road from Santo Augusto.
Regional airport serving central RS; more limited flight options but closer to the interior towns.
Smaller regional airport in western RS; serves as a practical air link for western municipalities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core part of the population, many residents work in agriculture and related trades.
Heritage from historic European immigration, influencing local cuisine, festivals, and architecture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s favorite sport with local games and community clubs at the weekend.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Augusto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options include rice, beans, salads, polenta, and cheese-based dishes like pão de queijo; ask for 'sem carne' (without meat) or 'sem carne de porco'.