Things To Do
in Três Cachoeiras

Três Cachoeiras is a small municipality in southern Brazil surrounded by green hills and winding rivers. The town is known for its scenic waterfalls, warm gaucho hospitality, and easy access to nature. Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, charming plazas, and opportunities to taste traditional southern Brazilian cuisine.

The surrounding countryside offers hiking, rural farms, and viewpoints that reveal the Serra Gaúcha landscape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Três Cachoeiras
morning
:

Arrive at Três Cachoeiras and check into your accommodation, soaking in the lush surroundings. Take time to relax after your journey, enjoying the tranquility of this small town. A quick stroll around the local area will help you familiarize yourself with the sights and sounds.

afternoon
:

Head to a local café for a delicious Brazilian lunch, treating yourself to classic dishes like feijoada or pão de queijo. Afterward, visit nearby natural attractions, such as the stunning waterfalls that lend the town its name. Spend the afternoon hiking along scenic trails that highlight the area's biodiversity.

evening
:

Wind down your first day with a traditional Brazilian barbecue (churrasco) at a local eatery. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you mingle with locals and other travelers. Take in the beauty of the starry sky before heading back to your accommodation.

day 2
Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring fresh tropical fruits and Brazilian coffee. Visit the local market to experience the culture and shop for handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local specialties. Engage with artisans and learn about their crafts while soaking in the colorful market atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After lunch, immerse yourself in the town’s history by visiting the Museu Histórico de Três Cachoeiras. Explore exhibits that tell the story of this charming region and its rich cultural heritage. The afternoon continues with a leisurely walk along the scenic riverbank, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can savor local dishes while listening to live music. Celebrate the evening by attending a cultural event, such as a samba or capoeira performance, to dive deeper into the vibrant local culture. Return to your accommodation feeling enriched by the experiences of the day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🧊Bottle of water (1.5L)$1-2
🚎Public transport ride$0.75-1.50
🏨Hotel nightly (mid-range)$40-100
Coffee in a cafe$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic waterfalls and nature nearby
  • Friendly locals and gaucho culture
  • Relaxed pace and safe small-town atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife and high-end dining
  • Weather can affect outdoor plans
  • Fewer international-franchise amenities compared to big cities
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Três Cachoeiras

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirante do Vale

Panoramic viewpoint overlooking the valley with rolling hills and farmsteads; ideal for sunrise shots.

Cachoeira das Três Cachoeiras

A trio of cascading waterfalls with misty pools; best captured from surrounding rocks with a wide-angle lens.

Ribeira do Rio

Quiet riverside stretch with reflections during golden hour and rustic footbridges.

Culinary Guide

Food in Três Cachoeiras

Três Cachoeiras' cuisine reflects gaucho influence, with hearty meat dishes, dairy-based flavors, and comforting, rustic fare. Expect fresh produce from nearby farms, pão de queijo, chimarrão, and generous portions designed for sharing.

Três Cachoeiras Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco Gaúcho

Traditional Brazilian barbecue with a variety of beef and pork cuts, usually served family-style with farofa, rice, and beans.

Must-Try!

Galeto ao Primo Canto

Roasted galeto (young chicken) served with polenta or potatoes and a tangy pepper sauce, popular at gaucho gatherings.

Arroz Carreteiro

Savory rice cooked with dried beef and aromatics, a rustic dish often enjoyed after a day outdoors.

Pão de Queijo com Chimarrão

Warm cheesy bread enjoyed with chimarrão, a quintessential Brazilian pairing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A small market where locals sell fresh produce, dairy, and regional snacks; great for sampling cheeses and breads.

Feira de Produtores

Seasonal farmers' market offering jams, honey, crafts, and fresh fruits.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers, cool winters, and year-round rainfall. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are mild; spring and autumn offer comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Oi', and in formal settings use 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' with a handshake.

Respect for privacy

Ask before taking photos of people or private property; avoid loud behavior in homes and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise common-sense safety: keep valuables secure in crowds, be cautious on rural roads after dark, and use licensed transport. Stay informed about weather forecasts, especially during the rainy season, which can affect trails and roads.

Tipping in Três Cachoeiras

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always required; 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payments

Cash in BRL and card payments are widely accepted; many places also accept Pix for instant transfers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities early.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives and forest hikes.

Winter

Cool to mild nights; pack a light jacket and enjoy cozy cafés and indoor cultural activities.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor markets and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Três Cachoeiras at Night

Nightlife in Três Cachoeiras is low-key and community-focused, with local bars offering cold beer, acoustic music, and regional snacks. Expect small gatherings on weekends and occasional live performances of sertanejo or pagode, rather than a large club scene.

Hiking in Três Cachoeiras

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Serra do Itaimbé Trail

Forest trail with scenic overlooks and opportunities to see local flora and fauna.

Cascata do Sítio Verde

A waterfall trail through lush vegetation leading to a refreshing pool.

Airports

How to reach Três Cachoeiras by plane.

Porto Alegre – Salgado Filho International Airport (POA)

Regional hub offering domestic and international flights; about a few hours by road from Três Cachoeiras.

Caxias do Sul – Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport (CXJ)

Smaller regional airport serving the Serra Gaúcha; useful for connections to southern destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights within a 1–3 km radius. Some streets are steep or cobbled, so wear comfortable shoes; a short ride may be needed to reach more distant viewpoints.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households include children; family-friendly activities are common in town centers and parks.

Rural residents

Agricultural workers and ranchers contribute to the local economy and culture.

Young professionals

Some residents work in services and tourism; a growing number are drawn to the town's natural appeal.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; local teams play on weekends across town fields.

Horseback riding

A nod to gaucho heritage; several ranches offer guided rides through scenic countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in town; peak congestion occurs during market days or festival weekends. Public buses connect to surrounding towns; taxis and rideshares are common for short trips, while rural roads can be narrow.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Três Cachoeiras.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy salads, pão de queijo, milho assado, polenta, and grilled vegetables; most places can accommodate requests for dairy-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in town with a local clinic; for more serious care, regional hospitals in Porto Alegre or nearby cities are accessible by road, with air ambulance options if necessary.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide