Things To Do
in Tijucas do Sul

Tijucas do Sul is a small municipality in Paraná state, nestled in the Serra do Mar foothills just east of Curitiba. It is surrounded by forests, rivers, and farms, giving the town a tranquil, outdoors-oriented vibe. Visitors discover a warm, rural atmosphere with friendly locals and a pace that favors nature over nightlife.

The area serves as a convenient base for day trips to waterfalls, viewpoints, and traditional Paraná cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Tijucas do Sul
morning
:

Arrive at the local airport and transfer to your hotel in Tijucas do Sul. Take some time to rest and freshen up, soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the surroundings. Enjoy a delicious Brazilian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional dishes such as pão de queijo and fresh tropical fruits.

afternoon
:

Explore the charming downtown area, visiting local shops and artisan markets to pick up unique souvenirs. Join a guided tour to the nearby Tijucas do Sul ecological parks, where you can enjoy hiking trails amidst lush natural landscapes. Take photographs of the breathtaking views of valleys and waterfalls.

evening
:

Indulge in a delightful dining experience at a local restaurant, where you can taste the flavors of the region’s specialty dishes. Engage with the friendly locals at a nearby bar, enjoying live music and perhaps trying the popular caipirinha cocktail. End your day with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets of Tijucas do Sul.

day 2
Exploring Nature Trails
morning
:

Wake up early and head out to explore the extensive nature trails of the Serra do Mar State Park. Breathe in the crisp morning air as you follow a guided hiking route, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna along the way. Enjoy a packed breakfast in nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a rural community nearby and connect with local farmers. Participate in a workshop where you learn about traditional farming practices and even try your hand at making natural products. Relish a hearty farm-to-table lunch followed by a tour of the stunning countryside.

evening
:

Return to Tijucas do Sul and prepare for a cultural excursion in the evening. Join a local cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Brazilian dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. End the evening enjoying the fruits of your labor in a cozy dining atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee shop or pastry$2-4
🚌Local transportation (one-way)$1-2
🏨Budget hotel per night$25-60
🛍️Local crafts or souvenirs$3-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to green spaces, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints
  • Relaxed pace and authentic regional cuisine
  • Budget-friendly lodging and food options
  • Friendly locals and a safe small-town atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife and few large-scale entertainment options
  • Transportation can be car-dependent and fewer public options
  • Smaller selection of international or haute cuisine restaurants
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "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 Tijucas do Sul

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic Centro Histórico

Charming streets and colonial-era façades along the Tijucas River provide classic architectural shots and reflections on the water.

Mirante da Serra

A viewpoint overlooking the valley and green hills, ideal for golden-hour panoramas.

Cascata do Tijucas Trail

A forested path leading to a scenic waterfall; perfect for long-exposure and nature photography.

Sunset at Rio Tijucas Edge

Riverside spots where the light plays on the water and surrounding trees as the day ends.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tijucas do Sul

Tijucas do Sul offers rustic Paraná cuisine with fresh local produce, river fish, and slow-cooked regional favorites.

Tijucas do Sul Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barreado

A slow-cooked beef (and sometimes pork) dish seasoned and served with plantains, farofa, and other accompaniments; best experienced in taverns in Tijucas do Sul or nearby Morretes.

Must-Try!

Truta Grellada

Grilled trout from local streams, a popular river-side option in many eateries around town.

Pão de Queijo

Classic Brazilian cheese bread, widely available in bakeries and cafés across Tijucas do Sul.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Tijucas do Sul

A compact market offering fresh produce, regional ingredients, and small snack options.

Feiras de Produtores

Weekly producer markets around the town square featuring locally grown fruit, vegetables, and handmade crafts to sample.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and cooler winters. Rain is common in the warmer months, while winter can bring clear, crisp days. Overall, expect seasonal variety but generally mild temperatures compared to inland Brazil.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Social Norms

Greet with a warm 'Olá' or 'Oi' and a handshake or light hug among friends. Use 'por favor' and 'obrigado/obrigada' in conversations. Ask before taking photos of people, and show appreciation for hospitality and local knowledge.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tijucas do Sul is a quiet town with low crime rates relative to larger cities, but standard travel precautions apply. Keep an eye on belongings in crowded markets, use well-lit streets at night, and avoid isolated paths after dark. For water activities, follow local guidance and avoid swimming in unknown or restricted areas.

Tipping in Tijucas do Sul

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette and Payment Methods

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service isn’t included, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated. Cash is widely accepted, and debit/credit cards are common in restaurants and shops; Pix is also increasingly popular for instant transfers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Expect lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife; carry a light rain jacket and sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Milder temperatures with comfortable humidity; excellent for hiking and photography as foliage begins to change color.

Winter

Cooler and drier on many days, with chilly nights. Days are typically mild; pack a jacket and breathable layers for outdoor exploration.

Spring

Rainy periods with blooming flora and active wildlife; great time for nature walks and visiting markets, though carrying a light rain layer is wise.

Nightlife Guide

Tijucas do Sul at Night

Tijucas do Sul has a low-key nightlife scene centered around small bars, cafés, and riverside venues. Expect acoustic sets, friendly crowds, and casual conversation rather than clubbing. Weekend evenings in the town square or along the main street offer a relaxed social atmosphere with local music and regional cuisine.

Hiking in Tijucas do Sul

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Serra do Mar Foothill Trails

Forest trails with varied difficulty, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for birdwatching.

Ribeira do Tijucas Gorge Path

Rugged path along a picturesque gorge with opportunities for dramatic landscape photography.

Waterfall Circuit Trails

A collection of short, scenic hikes to waterfalls suitable for families and day trips.

Airports

How to reach Tijucas do Sul by plane.

Afonso Pena International Airport (Curitiba)

Primary gateway to the region with domestic and some international flights; drive or take a bus/taxi to Tijucas do Sul.

Bacacheri Airport (Curitiba, smaller regional facility)

Alternative airport for regional flights and private aviation; typically shorter trips but fewer services than the main international hub.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with pleasant riverside paths. Some hills and uneven streets may require a comfortable pair of shoes, and a car is convenient for reaching surrounding nature spots and markets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural families

Longstanding farming communities alongside newer residents drawn by nature and tranquility.

Young couples and outdoor enthusiasts

People seeking weekend getaways, hiking, and small-town culture.

Retirees

Older residents who enjoy the peaceful pace and surrounding natural areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local amateur teams and community leagues.

Futsal

Indoor 5-a-side soccer enjoyed by many in the town and nearby communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tijucas do Sul is generally light, with local streets easy to navigate. From Curitiba, roads can get busier on weekends or during tourist seasons. Public transit is available, but many visitors rely on cars or rideshares for flexibility.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tijucas do Sul.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Paraná cuisine often centers on meat, but you can find or request vegetarian options such as salads, beans with rice, polenta, and grilled vegetables. Ask for substitutions (without meat sauces) and look for cheese, eggs, and plant-based sides to round out meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available locally, with more comprehensive care found in Curitiba. There are small clinics in Tijucas do Sul and pharmacies throughout town; for emergencies, hospital facilities in larger cities nearby are accessible by road transport.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide