Things To Do
in Tocantins
Tocantins is a northern Brazilian state that anchors the Cerrado and Tocantins River valley, offering a mix of rivers, waterfalls, and expansive savanna. Its capital, Palmas, is a modern, planned city built along the river with a relaxed, leafy vibe. The Jalapão region to the east is famous for orange sand dunes, crystal-clear fervedouros, and dramatic waterfalls that draw adventurous travelers.
The state hosts a blend of Indigenous communities, rural ranch life, and ecotourism-focused lodges that showcase regional culture and cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Brigadeiro Lysias Rodrigues Airport and ease into the tropical climate while settling into a lakeside hotel. Stroll along the shores of Praia da Graciosa and watch fisherfolk haul in their morning catch. Sample fresh açai and regional fruits from a local market stall.
Head to the Palácio Araguaia to admire modernist architecture and panoramic city views. Wander through the vibrant Feira do Bosque artisanal market and chat with local craftsmen. Cool off with açaí na tigela under the shade of towering urban trees.
Dine at a riverside restaurant serving grilled pirarucu and tucunaré with farofa. Sip on a caipirinha made with local pequi fruit as the sun dips below the Tocantins River. Join lively street music sessions and taste brigadeiro de colher for dessert.
Begin with a sunrise yoga session on the deck overlooking Lago de Palmas. Visit the grand Catedral de Palmas to admire its stained glass and soaring ceilings. Enjoy a breakfast of tapioca crepes filled with queijo coalho and guava paste.
Explore the winding trails of Parque Cesamar, spotting iguanas and native bird species. Learn about regional history at the Casa da Cultura de Taquaruçu, housed in a restored colonial manor. Refuel with a hearty galinhada at a family-run bistrô.
Catch a performance of traditional forró and sertanejo music at a local cultural center. Taste freshly baked coxinhas and pão de queijo accompanied by guaraná. Wander the illuminated waterfront path and breathe in the warm evening air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🚖Taxi or ride-share (city core) | $3-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant natural beauty and adventure opportunities (Jalapão, Cantão)
- Warm, welcoming communities and good value for money
- Remote areas with limited infrastructure outside Palmas
- Seasonal road conditions and heat can be challenging during peak summer
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Tocantins
Visit one of these nice places.
A photogenic central square with sun-inspired design and lively city activity; catches good light at dawn and dusk.
Lagoons and riverine landscapes ideal for sunset silhouettes and wildlife photography in a pristine ecosystem.
Clear, buoyant springs with milky turquoise water set against lush vegetation—great for unique water-surface photos.
Golden-orange sand dunes under soft morning light—a dramatic backdrop for wide-angle landscape shots.
One of Tocantins’ most iconic waterfalls; a long approach yields rewarding panoramic photos of the falls and canyon.
Food in Tocantins
Tocantins Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish served with pirão (a thick fish gravy made with cassava flour). Common at riverfront eateries and regional restaurants in Palmas and Jalapão lodges.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with pequi fruit, a staple flavor in Tocantins’ Cerrado-influenced cooking; widely available in local eateries and roadside restaurants.
Sun-cured meat paired with mashed cassava; a common rustic dish found in many regional restaurants and taverns.
A savory rice dish with dried, salted beef; a familiar comfort plate in Palmas’ casual dining spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A central market offering fresh fish, cassava products, tropical fruits, and prepared foods from local vendors; a good place to sample regional snacks.
Street market stalls along the riverfront that sell grilled snacks, tapiocas, and quick meals with a local twist; great for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake and a friendly greeting are common. In social settings, a kiss on the cheek may occur among friends; address people politely and use basic Portuguese phrases.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural communities; show respect for local customs and avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces.
Ask before photographing people in private settings or Indigenous communities; always respect posted signs and local guidelines.
Safety
Tipping in Tocantins
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a 10% service charge may be included at some restaurants; if not, a tip of around 5–10% is appreciated for good service, especially in tourist areas.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Palmas and larger establishments; carry some cash (BRL) for smaller towns and markets where cards may not be available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasantly warm days and cool nights; best for road access into Jalapão, clearer skies for photography, and more comfortable hiking.
Lush landscapes with vibrant greens; higher river levels and more dramatic waterfalls, but some roads can be muddy or intermittently closed; rain gear is essential.
Tocantins at Night
Hiking in Tocantins
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A dramatic waterfall with a rewarding hike to an overlook; best in dry season for clear views.
A scenic waterfall accessible via a relatively moderate hike through cerrado terrain.
Lagoon-and-forest trails ideal for wildlife viewing and birding near Porto Nacional.
Airports
How to reach Tocantins by plane.
Main gateway to Tocantins; serves domestic flights and occasional regional connections; taxis and shuttles connect to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of Indigenous communities, Afro-Brazilian influences, and migrants from other regions; Portuguese is the lingua franca.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Tocantins; informal matches are common in towns and parks.
Popular on the Tocantins and Cantão water systems for both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tocantins.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on beans, rice, mandioca, vegetables, and salads. Look for rice bowls, cassava-based dishes, and cheese or egg options; in Palmas most restaurants can accommodate with advance notice.