São José do Calçado

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with São José do Calçado's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in São José do Calçado
morning
:

Upon arrival, settle into your accommodations and get familiar with the surrounding area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, trying some authentic Brazilian pastries. Take a stroll through the charming streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of the town.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the culture and indulge in fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque Igreja Matriz, an iconic church that showcases the town's rich history. Engage with locals who are eager to share stories and recommendations about São José do Calçado.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant, savoring traditional Brazilian cuisine while enjoying live music. After dinner, take a peaceful walk through the town square where you can relax and unwind under the starry sky. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals as you mingle with residents and fellow travelers alike.

day 2
Exploring Hiking Trails
morning
:

Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast, then gear up for an adventure on one of the nearby hiking trails. The surrounding nature offers breathtaking views and a chance to witness the region's diverse flora and fauna. Set out early to avoid the afternoon heat while you're surrounded by lush landscapes.

afternoon
:

After a fulfilling hike, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature while soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. Spend the afternoon discovering hidden waterfalls and clear streams that provide ideal spots for relaxation and photos. The exhilarating experience of nature will leave you feeling refreshed and revived.

evening
:

Return to town and unwind with a casual dinner at a local eatery, sampling street food delights like coxinha and pão de queijo. Join in on a cultural event or live music session that may be happening at the town square, showcasing local talents. Celebrate a day well spent with new friends and vibrant conversations.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast, followed by a visit to local craft workshops where artisans showcase their skills. Learn about traditional crafts and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. The hands-on experience will deepen your understanding of the local culture.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Museu Histórico, where exhibits reveal the rich history of São José do Calçado and its people. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the town's past and cultural evolution. Participate in interactive displays or workshops that may be offered at the museum.

evening
:

Enjoy a home-cooked meal at a local family's residence through a cultural exchange program. Share stories and laughter as you bond over the communal dining experience. End the night by exploring local nightlife, engaging with fun bars or cultural venues that feature regional music and dance.

day 4
Nature Exploration Day
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour to explore the nearby national parks and natural reserves. The early morning is perfect for birdwatching and spotting wildlife in their natural habitats. Learn from your guide about the significance of the ecosystems in the region.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in a scenic location, surrounded by stunning views and tranquility. Spend the afternoon hiking through the various trails that showcase breathtaking vistas and diverse landscapes. Capture memorable photos of the picturesque panoramas and unique local flora.

evening
:

Return to São José do Calçado to relax and rejuvenate after a day in nature. Dine at a local pizzeria or steakhouse, enjoying regional dishes crafted from fresh ingredients. Conclude your day with a sunset walk, reflecting on the day's adventures while soaking in the serene ambiance.

day 5
Adventure Sports
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast before heading out for a day filled with adventure sports such as rock climbing or zip-lining. Local operators equip you with the gear needed for a thrilling experience in the surrounding mountainous terrain. Feel the adrenaline rush as you conquer new challenges in the great outdoors.

afternoon
:

After a hearty lunch, continue with more adventure activities like kayaking or mountain biking. The afternoon allows for fun-filled exploration while appreciating the scenic landscapes. Engage with fellow adventurers and share experiences that encourage new friendships.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner featuring grilled meats or seafood at a popular local grill. Join an outdoor bonfire gathering organized by adventure tour operators for a cozy evening filled with stories and laughter. The day's excitement will fill the air with a spirit of camaraderie among participants.

day 6
Visit to Local Vineyards
morning
:

Savor breakfast at a local café, then set off for a guided tour of nearby vineyards known for their exquisite wines. Experience the viticulture process and learn about local grape varieties from knowledgeable winemakers. Enjoy an insightful tasting session to appreciate the subtle flavors of the wines.

afternoon
:

Continue your vineyard exploration with a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant, featuring farm-to-table cuisine paired with their finest wines. Spend the afternoon soaking in the serene atmosphere while wandering through the vineyard rows. Capture beautiful moments with scenic landscapes set against the backdrop of the grapevines.

evening
:

Return to town for a dinner featuring dishes paired with local wines, enhancing your culinary experience of Brazilian cuisine. Share your vineyard stories with locals and fellow travelers at a vibrant gathering spot. Embrace the charming nightlife of São José do Calçado, with music and laughter filling the air.

day 7
Gastronomy Day
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a traditional bakery, sampling delicious local bread and coffee. Take part in a culinary class led by a local chef to learn how to prepare your favorite Brazilian dishes. The class will provide insights into the use of local ingredients and cooking techniques.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the fruits of your labor by savoring the lunch you prepared during the class. Continue the gastronomic journey by visiting local farms to see how ingredients are cultivated and harvested. Engage with farmers who are passionate about their produce and learn about sustainable farming practices.

evening
:

Dine at an upscale restaurant specializing in contemporary Brazilian cuisine, experiencing innovative interpretations of traditional dishes. Indulge in a multi-course meal, allowing your palate to explore diverse flavors. Conclude the evening with a dessert tasting, experiencing the sweet side of Brazilian gastronomy.

day 8
Relaxation and Reflection
morning
:

After an action-packed week, treat yourself to a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation. Spend the morning strolling through parks, reflecting on the experiences you’ve had during your stay. Take this time to unwind and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit local artisan shops to procure thoughtful souvenirs, reflecting the culture and spirit of São José do Calçado. Spend some time at a local café, perhaps reading or journaling about your adventures. Engage with shopkeepers who often share intriguing stories about their crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a beloved local restaurant, taking the chance to try one last favorite dish. Share reminisces with the locals and make plans to return in the future. As the night winds down, savor the joy of the memories you've created in São José do Calçado.

Discover São José do Calçado

Read more in our São José do Calçado 2025 Travel Guide.

São José do Calçado Travel Guide