Things To Do
in Solânea

Solânea is a small inland town in Paraíba, Brazil, known for its friendly communities and scenic countryside. It sits on the Borborema Plateau, offering rolling hills, rivers, and waterfalls within easy reach. Visitors discover a slower pace of life here, with traditional Northeast Brazilian cuisine and vibrant local markets.

The surrounding landscapes invite outdoor exploring, from hikes to river swims, making Solânea a gateway to rural Paraíba.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Igreja Matriz de São José, where you can marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate details. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and charming colonial houses. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and fresh coffee.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the local artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts and souvenirs unique to Solânea. Visit the Museu Histórico de Solânea to learn about the rich heritage and culture of the region through engaging exhibits. As you walk through the town, interact with friendly locals who are often eager to share stories about their community.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a dinner of regional specialties like carne de sol and feijão verde. After dinner, stroll through the town square where live music often fills the air, creating a lively ambiance. End your day with a gelato from a local ice cream shop as you reflect on the beauty of the historic center.

day 2
Nature Walks in Parque Natural
morning
:

Start your morning with a refreshing hike in the Parque Natural de Solânea, where lush greenery and unique flora await you. Breathe in the crisp air as you traverse well-marked trails that lead to stunning viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery and possibly spot some local wildlife.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of birds and rustling leaves. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's different trails, each leading to a new discovery, whether it's a hidden waterfall or a serene pond. Take a moment to relax and appreciate the peace that nature provides.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to town and unwind at a local bar where you can chat with fellow travelers and locals. Sample some craft beers or caipirinhas while enjoying the laid-back vibe of Solânea. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or snack shop$2-4
🚎Local transport (bus/taxi)$0.50-2.00
🏨Budget hotel or pousada per night$25-45
🛒Groceries (weekly)$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, relaxed pace with genuine local hospitality
  • Good value for money and authentic Northeast experiences
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
  • Rural transport can be sparse; longer travel times between sights
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Solânea

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirante do Pico do Sol

A panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping valley and hillside views, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Cachoeira do Riachinho

A picturesque waterfall with a natural pool ideal for reflection shots and long-exposure photography.

Praça Central de Solânea

A historic square framed by colorful storefronts and colonial-inspired facades, great for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Solânea

The cuisine in Solânea reflects the Northeast’s hearty, grain- and dairy-rich traditions, with regional staples like carne de sol, queijo coalho, and tapioca appearing in many meals and snacks.

Solânea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carne de Sol com Macaxeira

Sun-cured beef served with boiled manioc, a Northeast classic and a staple in many households and eateries.

Must-Try!

Queijo Coalho grelhado

Grilled queijo coalho skewers, a simple and beloved street food snack widely available in markets and bars.

Tapioca

Starch-based pancake made from manioc flour; can be filled with cheese, coconut, or sweet toppings and is popular at markets and cafes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Solânea

A local market where you can sample fresh produce, regional cheeses, pão de queijo, and a variety of snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Solânea experiences a tropical savanna climate with hot temperatures throughout the year. The rainy season typically runs from April to July, with drier spells in the remaining months, though weather can vary by year and elevation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Offer a friendly 'Bom dia/Boa tarde' and a handshake or a kiss on the cheek when familiar with locals.

Respect

Be polite in conversations; avoid raising voices in public and approach sensitive topics with tact.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety concerns include petty theft in crowded areas; keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings, especially at night in less populated areas. Road conditions can become hazardous after heavy rain; always check local alerts before venturing to remote spots.

Tipping in Solânea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 5-10% tip is common in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for porters and guides are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns, with cash handy for markets and rural spots.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for cooler mornings or evenings.

Autumn

Warm days with comfortable temperatures; great for outdoor exploration and outdoor dining; occasional rain can occur.

Winter

Milder evenings and cooler mornings; layers recommended; generally drier, but coastal influences can bring sporadic rain.

Spring

Lush landscapes as rainfall improves; ideal for hiking, markets, and photography with blooming flora.

Nightlife Guide

Solânea at Night

In Solânea, nightlife centers on local bars (botecos) and small live music venues. Expect forró or sertanejo nights, with earlier closing times on weekdays and livelier scenes on weekends.

Hiking in Solânea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Serra do Mendonça

A scenic hillside trail with valley views and potential wildlife; suited for day hikes.

Cachoeira do Riachinho Trail

Trail leading to a waterfall and natural pool, ideal for a refreshing break and photography.

Airports

How to reach Solânea by plane.

João Pessoa–Presidente Castro Pinto International Airport (JPA)

Closest major airport serving regional flights; about 1.5-2 hours by car to Solânea.

Recife/Guararapes International Airport (REC)

Larger international airport with more flight options; longer drive to Solânea.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is relatively walkable with dense concentration of shops and eateries, though some streets are hilly and sidewalks can be uneven. Rural and scenic spots typically require a short drive.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Racial and Cultural Groups

A mix of White, pardo (mixed-race), and Afro-Brazilian communities, with rural families and urban residents contributing to the town's social fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and informal matches in parks.

Capoeira and Volleyball

Common in community centers and schools; casual pickup games frequently occur.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in the town center; driving is common, with narrow rural roads outside town. Public transport includes buses and vans to nearby towns; ride-hailing services are less common but taxis are available in town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Solânea.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Opt for queijo, tapioca, beans, rice, grilled vegetables, and eggs when needed; ask for ovo or queijo substitutions where appropriate.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic public health clinics are available in town; for more comprehensive care, larger hospitals in nearby João Pessoa or Campina Grande are accessible by car or bus. Carry local health insurance or travel insurance for comfort and coverage.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide