Things To Do
in Amarante
Amarante is a small riverside town in Bahia, Brazil, known for its friendly community and relaxed pace of life. Its historic center features colonial-style buildings and a central square that hosts daily markets and social life. Set along a winding river and shaded by tropical trees, the town combines easy access to nature with uncomplicated comforts.
Visitors are welcomed by traditional festas, handmade crafts, and local flavors that reflect the region's Afro-Brazilian and rural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Amarante and check into your local accommodation, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the region. Stroll through the vibrant streets and admire the colonial architecture that fills the city with charm. Savor a delicious breakfast at a local café, tasting the flavors of Brazilian cuisine.
Explore the beautiful Parque do Rio Tanque, a stunning park known for its lush landscape and relaxing atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bicycle to see the various paths and attractions within the park. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, quintessential to the Amarante experience.
Head into the city center to enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Brazilian restaurant. Try local specialties such as feijão tropeiro or moqueca, paired with a refreshing caipirinha. As night falls, take a peaceful walk along the riverbanks, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Visit the Museu de Amarante, where you can delve into the rich cultural history of the region through various exhibits and artifacts. Engage with local guides for a deeper understanding of the exhibits, highlighting the region's artistic heritage. Spend time in the museum's garden, enjoying a tranquil start to your day.
After lunch, venture to the Igreja de São Gonçalo, a stunning church known for its intricate architecture and vibrant mosaics. Spend time exploring the interior and gaining insight into the local religious practices. Capture beautiful photographs of the church's façade, a true gem of Amarante.
Experience the vibrant nightlife with a visit to local bars and live music venues. Engage with local musicians and dancers, experiencing the lively culture of the city. Enjoy a late-night snack from street vendors offering local delicacies, creating unforgettable memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🫖Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottled water (0.5L) | $0.8-1.5 |
| 🧺Local crafts souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Close proximity to river and nature, easy day trips
- Worthwhile regional cuisine and craft markets
- Historic center with colonial architecture
- Limited nightlife and few large-scale attractions
- Public transport can be infrequent outside a few routes
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "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?
- "Poderia recomendar um bom restaurante?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Amarante
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunset viewpoint above the river with pastel boats and dramatic light on the water.
Baroque church façade and interior details ideal for architectural shots.
Old stone bridge offering reflections of the river and surrounding greenery.
Vibrant waterfront market area with colorful stalls and morning activity.
Food in Amarante
Amarante Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant Bahian fish stew cooked with onions, peppers, coconut milk, and dendê oil.
Must-Try!
Crispy fritter made from black-eyed peas, typically served with vatapá and caruru.
Creamy coconut-and-peanut sauce served with rice or bread.
Cassava cake, lightly sweet and perfect with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market where you can sample fresh river fish, tropical fruits, cassava, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Oi'; handshakes are common; address elders as senhor/senhora.
Dress modestly and remove hats; ask for permission before photographing inside.
Polite small talk about family and food is common; avoid sensitive topics like politics in first meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Amarante
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip is customary if service is not included; many locals round up the bill in casual eateries.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon storms; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Warm days with cooler evenings; humidity remains high but more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Milder temperatures, often in the low 20s C, with drier conditions; good for hiking and sightseeing in daylight.
Warm and pleasant; occasional showers; ideal for outdoor markets and river trips.
Amarante at Night
Hiking in Amarante
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge trails with viewpoints over the valley and river.
Waterfall hike with pools suitable for a refreshing dip on warm days.
Airports
How to reach Amarante by plane.
Main international gateway for Bahia; drives to Amarante by road.
Regional hub with domestic connections; longer drive but options exist.
Coastal gateway with domestic flights; farther from Amarante but sometimes convenient for regional travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families and long-time inhabitants with strong ties to the river and markets.
People involved in agriculture, crafts, and river-based trades.
Youth commuting to nearby towns for education; seniors who contribute to cultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local matches and pickup games common in parks.
Traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art and dance performed in cultural centers.
Volleyball in schools and community clubs; casual games at riverfronts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amarante.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Bahian dishes are meat- or seafood-based; look for feijão, mandioca, rice and salads. Ask for no dendê oil or fish stock and request vegetarian versions where possible.