Things To Do
in Vacaria

Grilled beef and sausages served rodízio-style at churrascarias and local barbecue joints; ideal to try at weekend family-run restaurants and during festivals.

Must-Try!

Traditional bitter mate tea served in a gourd and shared communally; widespread and a key part of social interaction among locals.

Vacaria is known for apples — try pies, cakes and preserves at bakeries and the municipal market, especially during the harvest season.

Thick polenta and slow-cooked beef or pork stews reflecting the Italian/European heritage of the highlands; common in family restaurants.

Local market where you can buy fresh apples, cheeses, breads and homemade preserves; on market days look for pastry stalls and regional snacks.

Small vendors sell pastéis, brochettes and chá/chimarrão at weekends or festival times — great for quick, affordable bites.

Warm, friendly greetings are common — use a handshake or a light hug among acquaintances. Saying bom dia/bom tarde/bom noite is polite when entering shops or meeting people.

If offered chimarrão, accept respectfully; the gourd circulates and the host usually prepares the mate — don’t stir the bombilla (metal straw).

For rodeos and gaucho gatherings, dressing modestly and following local customs (applaud performances, respect animals and performers) is appreciated.

Ask permission before photographing people up close, especially in private or religious contexts; farmers and vendors will often welcome friendly requests.

Restaurants often add a 10% service charge; if not included, leaving around 10% for good service is customary. For taxis, rounding up or leaving small change is normal; tip guides and drivers modestly for good service.

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely used in markets and small shops; most restaurants and hotels accept credit/debit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Carry some cash for rural purchases and small vendors; contactless payments and Pix (instant bank transfer) are increasingly common.

Warm days (young crops and green pastures) with cool evenings; ideal for hiking, farm visits and canyon tours. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible — pack lightweight rain gear and sunscreen.

Crisp air and colourful foliage on some trees, milder temperatures and fewer tourists; a pleasant time for outdoor walks and photography.

Cold, often frosty weather with temperatures that can drop near or below freezing at night; occasional light snow or sleet in the highlands — dress in layers, bring a warm coat and check road conditions.

Blooming fields and comfortable temperatures; unpredictable showers but generally good for nature excursions and sampling seasonal produce like early apples.

One of the region’s most famous canyon hikes with well-maintained trails and dramatic cliff viewpoints; a popular day trip from Vacaria (allow several hours driving each way).

Network of trails in national parks featuring canyons, lookouts and plateaus — suitable for moderate hikes and excellent photography.

Shorter rural hikes around Vacaria that lead to small waterfalls, streams and pastoral landscapes; ideal for half-day outings and birdwatching.

Scenic routes across the Campos de Cima da Serra with open views, wind-swept grasslands and opportunities to observe local farming life.

Many families trace roots to Portuguese, Italian and German immigration, shaping local food, festivals and farming practices.

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, cattle raising and estancias with strong gaucho cultural influence.

Local professionals, service workers and business owners who provide municipal services, education and retail in the town.

During harvest and festival seasons, seasonal workers and tourists add temporary diversity to the population.

The most popular sport across Brazil, played and followed passionately in Vacaria with local amateur clubs and community matches.

Traditional gaucho horsemanship, rodeo events and cattle-handling competitions are important cultural and sporting activities in the region.

Recreational and competitive riding is common on estancias and in local clubs.

Road cycling and trail running are popular among locals and visitors taking advantage of the hilly landscape and quiet roads.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with major cities; ask for salads, egg-based dishes, polenta, and cooked vegetable sides. Bring snacks if you rely on a wide range of vegetarian choices.

Vegan choices can be scarce; communicate clearly (in Portuguese if possible) and request vegetable dishes without dairy. Larger supermarkets and bakeries may have fruit, nuts and simple options.

Gluten-free options are available in supermarkets and some cafés, but cross-contamination is possible in traditional bakeries. It’s wise to explain needs and carry basic gluten-free snacks.

Carry key allergy phrases in Portuguese and consider a translated card for restaurants; medical care is available in town for emergencies.