Things To Do
in Correntina
Correntina is a quiet frontier town in western Bahia that serves as a gateway to the region's rugged cerrado and scenic rivers. The town exudes rural charm with a slow pace, where daily life revolves around markets, river outlooks, and small farms. Its landscapes offer savanna-like plains, rocky outcrops, and abundant wildlife, inviting hikers, birdwatchers, and curious travelers.
Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality, budget-friendly options, and a growing scene of ecotourism adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the historic center of Correntina, where colonial architecture tells the stories of its past. Visit the main square, Praça da Matriz, to admire the beautifully restored church and the vibrant local market. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh pão de queijo and coffee.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to learn more about the history and culture of Correntina, stopping at local artisan shops. Visit the Museu Municipal, which houses artifacts that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. As the sun begins to set, grab a refreshing açaí bowl from a local vendor and relax in the square.
As night falls, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant known for its regional cuisine, such as carne de sol and feijão tropeiro. After dinner, stroll through the lively streets, where you may encounter local musicians and dancers showcasing traditional folklore. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Begin your day with an early morning trip to the nearby Parque Nacional da Serra da Canastra, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a guided nature walk, where you might spot capybaras, monkeys, and various bird species among the lush vegetation. Take in the breathtaking views from the park's lookout points, which offer a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, featuring local delicacies and fresh fruits. Continue your adventure with a visit to the park's famous waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Spend time hiking along the trails, immersing yourself in the serene environment and majestic scenery.
Return to Correntina in the evening and unwind with a leisurely dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that uses ingredients sourced from local farms. Enjoy the warm atmosphere as you share stories with fellow diners about the day’s adventures. For dessert, treat yourself to a slice of cocada, a traditional Brazilian coconut sweet, while reflecting on your day in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🏨One-night budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi or local transport ride | $2-6 |
| 🧭Local crafts souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming community and affordable travel
- Access to Cerrado landscapes and river activities
- Low crowds and authentic local experiences
- Rich opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography
- Limited English in rural areas and some services
- Sparse infrastructure outside town centers
- Fewer nightlife options compared to coastal cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Correntina
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial-style buildings and a picturesque church provide classic town photography with warm evening light.
Golden hour reflections on calm water with silhouettes of trees and local boats.
Open views over the cerrado plains and distant hills, perfect for wide landscapes and sunrise shots.
Food in Correntina
Correntina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salted or cured beef served with cassava (mandioca) or farinha de mandioca, a staple in many inland Brazilian kitchens and commonly found in Correntina’s eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled river fish paired with pirão, a cassava flour porridge cooked in fish stock that thickens into a comforting, savory accompaniment.
A smooth, starchy fish porridge made from cassava flour, often enjoyed with rice and fresh herbs.
Sweet or savory corn cake that captures a regional cornbread flavor, commonly found in markets and small bakeries.
Savory or sweet tapioca pancakes cooked to order, a popular street-food snack and light meal option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main daily market where locals buy fresh produce, peixe, queijo, mandioca, and craft items; look for fresh fruits and regional snacks.
Street stalls offering tapioca, cuscuz, pastéis, and fried snacks; ideal for a quick, authentic bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “bom dia/boa tarde” and a handshake; show respect to elders and avoid loud behavior in public after dark.
Dress modestly in churches and formal spaces; ask permission before photographing people, especially in private settings or workshops.
Household visits are common and friendly; be patient with service and enjoy the slower, hospitable pace of life.
Safety
Tipping in Correntina
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always required. In restaurants, a 5-10% service tip is common if not included; for bars and taxis, small tips are appreciated.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted, with credit/debit cards accepted in larger shops and many eateries; some smaller vendors may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town, but keep some cash for rural trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, light clothing, and sunscreen; plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasantly warm days with cooler evenings; good for long walks and outdoor markets; humidity starts to drop.
Milder daytime temperatures with cooler nights; nights can be chilly, especially near water; great for sightseeing without crowds.
Warm days with increasing greenery and wildlife activity; a good time for hiking and birdwatching.
Correntina at Night
Hiking in Correntina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering panoramic views over the plains and potential wildlife sightings.
Easy riverside trail ideal for birdwatching and photography during early mornings.
Airports
How to reach Correntina by plane.
Regional airport serving western Bahia; short drive to Correntina and connections to major hubs when available.
Regional airport in the interior of Bahia; requires road transfer to Correntina but offers additional flight options.
Major gateway for Bahia; long onward drive or domestic flight options to reach Correntina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly involved in agriculture and small-scale farming, with strong community ties.
People who work in the town center, markets, and service sectors; more diverse in recent years.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and informal games in plazas and fields.
Common in schools and community centers; casual beach or court play in the evenings.
Recreational fishing along the Correntina River and surrounding streams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Correntina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice, beans, vegetables, farofa, mandioca, and cheeses; ask for pratos sem carne or refogados de legumes.
Many dishes use cassava flour instead of wheat; request sem trigo and confirm pirão or tapioca preparations are gluten-free if needed.