Things To Do
in Urubici
Urubici is a highland town in Santa Catarina, Brazil, perched in the Serra Catarinense. Set at about 900 meters above sea level, it enjoys a cool climate with crisp air year round. The surrounding valleys, waterfalls, and jagged rock formations make it a magnet for hikers and nature lovers.
Its rural charm and friendly locals meet dramatic viewpoints such as Morro da Igreja and Pedra Furada.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start the day with a visit to Cascata do Avencal, a stunning waterfall located just outside of Urubici. As you hike the trails leading to the waterfall, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of rushing water. Capture the moment with photos of the 100-meter drop as the sunlight sparkles through the mist.
After soaking in the views, enjoy a picnic lunch nearby, sampling local delicacies and enjoying the serene environment. You can also explore the surrounding walking trails, taking in the vibrant flora and fauna. The clear skies and pleasant breeze make for a perfect setting for relaxation.
As evening falls, return to Urubici and head to a local restaurant to savor traditional Brazilian cuisine. Enjoy dishes like churrasco, with expertly grilled meats accompanied by fresh salads and local wines. Wrap up the day by strolling through the town, immersing yourself in the warm and inviting atmosphere.
Wake up early and venture to Morro da Igreja, the highest point in the south of Brazil at 1,824 meters. The invigorating hike up the mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and unique rock formations. Don't forget to take a moment to absorb the fresh mountain air and the beauty around you before descending.
After the hike, enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries, sampling homemade autumn dishes. Post lunch, you can visit the nearby Pedra Furada, a remarkable rock formation shaped by nature over centuries. This unique geological site is perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant where you can enjoy delectable local dishes while meeting fellow travelers. As the sun sets, take an evening walk under the stars, appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility of Urubici.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕One-way local transport | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍽️Mid-range restaurant dinner | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning highland scenery and relief
- Wide hiking and nature opportunities
- Welcoming local culture and rural charm
- Limited nightlife and daytime shopping
- Distances between attractions can be long without a car
- "Oi" - Hi / Hello
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Urubici
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the region’s highest viewpoints offering sweeping valley vistas; look for morning mists and the possibility of frost in winter.
A dramatic natural rock arch that frames the Serra landscape, especially photogenic at sunrise.
A powerful waterfall surrounded by lush forest, with easy trails and multiple angles for photography.
A nearby cave offering cool, shaded interiors for interesting light contrasts.
Food in Urubici
Urubici Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with beef and sausage, a comfort food staple in the Serra region and widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Roasted pine nuts from the local Araucaria forests, a seasonal snack common in autumn and winter.
Mountain cheese typical of the region; pairs well with bread and regional wines.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market where you can buy fresh fruit, cheeses, pinhão, and regional snacks to enjoy on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or simple nod works; address people politely with Senhor/Senhora or using first names after greeting.
Portuguese is the local language; learning a few phrases in Portuguese goes a long way.
Take care on trails, avoid littering, and respect private properties and rural farms.
Safety
Tipping in Urubici
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; a 5-10% tip at restaurants is common if service is not already included.
Cards are widely accepted in town; carry some cash for markets and smaller shops. ATMs are available in Urubici, but some remote spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; occasional rain showers. Best for waterfall hikes and longer outdoor sessions.
Mild temperatures and colorful foliage; pleasant for scenic drives and outdoor photography.
Chilly days with crisp mornings; frost and rare snowfall possible. Good visibility for clear valley views; bring warm layers.
Moderate temperatures with frequent showers; waterfalls fill up and nature comes alive.
Urubici at Night
Hiking in Urubici
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail to the summit with panoramic valley views; sunrise hikes require early start and warm layers.
Forest trail leading to the Avencal waterfall with several viewpoints.
Short trail to the Pedra Furada arch and surrounding vistas.
Airports
How to reach Urubici by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights; about 90 minutes by road from Urubici.
Major international airport about 300 km away; best reached by car or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly descendants of European immigrants with strong rural traditions.
Visitors from Brazil and neighboring countries attracted by nature and winter scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime on weekends and in local leagues.
The Serra Catarinense landscape attracts runners and hikers year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Urubici.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can rely on rice, beans, salads, seasonal vegetables, and pinhão. When ordering, ask for sem carne and avoid meat-based stocks; many places can adapt dishes on request.