whatdo

Things To Do
in Matão

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Matão is a city located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. It is known for its strong agricultural economy, particularly in the production of sugar cane and citrus fruits. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with annual festivals celebrating its traditions and history.

Matão is also home to several parks and green spaces, providing residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor recreation.

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4.6(180)

Skip the Line: Cassorova Eco Park Admission Ticket

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5.0(3158)

Rafting - Brotas - Rio Jacaré Pepira

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4.9(287)

Zipline Mega Tour - Brotas

  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $45
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Heart of Mato
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the central park where you can enjoy a morning stroll. Grab breakfast at a local cafe and enjoy some fresh Brazilian pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Matão Historical Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the city center while checking out local shops.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant that offers traditional Brazilian dishes. Conclude your day with a scenic drive through the illuminated streets of Matão.

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4.3(25)

Entrance ticket to Viva Brotas Ecopark with lunch

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4.9(180)

Super Zipline - Brotas

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5.0(299)

Rafting trip in Brotas

day 2
Nature Retreat in Mato
morning
:

Head out early to Parque dos Lagos for a peaceful morning surrounded by nature. Take your time to explore the walking trails and spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. After your meal, rent a paddle boat for some fun on the water.

evening
:

Return to the city and relax at a cozy outdoor cafe. Enjoy the cool evening breeze while sipping on a refreshing caipirinha.

Matão Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions
  • Abundant natural beauty, including parks and green spaces
  • Friendly community with a lower cost of living compared to larger cities
  • Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and commerce
  • Access to quality education and healthcare facilities
  • Limited job opportunities in specialized fields
  • Potential for lower infrastructure development compared to urban areas
  • Transportation options may be restricted for longer distances
  • Hot climate can be uncomfortable for some during summer months
  • May lack some amenities and entertainment options found in larger cities

Best Activities in Matão

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking and nature walking

Explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Matão through hiking and nature walking at locations such as Serra do Itaqueri and Parque Ecológico de Matão.

Places to Visit in Matão

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Ecológico dos Saltos

A natural park with waterfalls and scenic views, perfect for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Matão.

Mirante da Pedra

A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for capturing stunning photos of Matão.

Mirante da Fazenda São Martinho

An elevated point providing breathtaking views of the countryside and agricultural fields, offering great photo opportunities.

Food in Matão

Matão, Brazil, offers a diverse and flavorful cuisine that reflects its diverse cultural influences. From savory street foods to vibrant local dishes, the city's food scene is a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions.

Matão Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Matão-style Pastel

These deep-fried pastries are typically filled with a variety of local ingredients such as cheese, ground meat, and heart of palm. Head to the street vendors at Feira Livre for some of the best pastel in town.

Must-Try!

Tutu de Feijão

A traditional Brazilian dish made of mashed black beans, seasoned with spices and often topped with pork cracklings. Dona Maria's Restaurante is known for serving an excellent Tutu de Feijão.

Pamonha

A sweet or savory corn dish, wrapped and boiled in corn husks. Look for vendors at the weekly Feira da Lua for delicious pamonha variations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

This bustling open-air market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Don't miss the diverse selection of pastel, coxinhas, and freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.

Feira da Lua

A weekly night market where you can sample a variety of traditional snacks, including pamonha, espetinho de carne (grilled meat skewers), and tapioca crepes.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as tropical, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Typically, the wet season occurs from October to March, bringing substantial rainfall and higher humidity, while the dry season spans from April to September, featuring lower precipitation levels and cooler temperatures. Average temperatures generally range from around 18°C (64°F) during the cooler months to approximately 30°C (86°F) in the warmer months. The area experiences warm summers with peaks in temperature, particularly in January and February. Rainfall can be quite heavy during the wet season, often leading to lush vegetation and vibrant agricultural production. In contrast, the dry season can lead to drought conditions, especially if rainfall is significantly below average. Overall, the climate supports a diverse ecosystem, along with significant agricultural activities, including the cultivation of crops such as sugarcane and coffee.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

In Matão, it is respectful to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity. It's important to greet everyone individually when entering a room or social gathering.

Respecting Personal Space

Brazilians, including those in Matão, value their personal space. It's important to maintain a comfortable distance when engaging in conversation and to avoid standing too close to others, especially strangers.

Use of Titles and Last Names

In formal or business settings, it is customary to address individuals using their titles and last names, such as 'Senhor' (Mr.) or 'Senhora' (Mrs.) followed by their last name, as a sign of respect.

Safety

In this municipality located in the state of São Paulo, safety can be influenced by various factors including crime rates, local law enforcement effectiveness, community engagement, and socio-economic conditions. Like many urban areas in Brazil, the safety situation can vary significantly by neighborhood. Some areas may experience higher crime rates, particularly with petty crimes such as theft and mugging, while others may be relatively safe. Local police presence and community initiatives can play a role in maintaining or improving safety. It is advisable for residents and visitors to stay informed about local safety conditions, avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious during nighttime activities. Additionally, engaging with community programs aimed at enhancing safety and security can also foster a greater sense of security. To get a full understanding of safety in Matão, it's beneficial to review recent crime statistics and community reports or speak to locals for personal experiences and insights on the current environment.

Tipping in Matão

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Matão, Brazil, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is customary to tip around 10% of the bill at restaurants, especially if the service was excellent.

Payment

Payment in Matão, Brazil is predominantly done in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in urban areas. It is important to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

January to March

Summer season with warm temperatures and occasional rain showers. Good for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches.

April to June

Autumn season with mild temperatures. Good for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

July to September

Winter season with cool temperatures. Ideal for experiencing local festivals and cultural events.

October to December

Spring season with warm temperatures and blooming flora. Perfect for outdoor adventures and enjoying the local scenery.

Matão at Night

Nightlife in Matão offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, reflective of its smaller city charm. Residents and visitors can explore a range of options from local bars and pubs to intimate restaurants serving delicious Brazilian cuisine. While it may not compare to the bustling nightlife of larger cities, Matão's evening scene is vibrant in its own right. Live music is a popular feature, with many venues hosting local bands and musicians, offering everything from traditional Brazilian beats to contemporary tunes. For those looking to dance the night away, a few local clubs and dance halls provide spaces where people can enjoy energetic music and socialize. Community events and festivals also play a significant role in the city's nightlife, often extending into the late hours and creating a lively and festive environment. Overall, Matão's nightlife is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where the focus is on enjoying good company, music, and food.

Hiking in Matão

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Ecológico do Córrego do Tatu

A natural park featuring well-marked trails, lush vegetation, and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Trilha do Pico do Gavião

A scenic hiking trail that leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape, ideal for experienced hikers.

Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar

Located a short drive from Matão, this state park offers numerous hiking trails amidst rich biodiversity and waterfalls.

Caminho de Santiago do Brasil

A cultural and spiritual hiking route that passes through various historical sites and beautiful natural landscapes.

Trilha da Pedra do Baú

Known for its breathtaking rock formations, this trail offers a moderate hike with picturesque views and rock climbing opportunities.

Aiports

How to reach Matão by plane.

Araraquara Airport (AQP)

Located approximately 26 km from Matão, this airport serves regional flights and is one of the closest to Matão.

São Carlos Airport (QSC)

About 42 km from Matão, this is a smaller airport primarily used for general aviation.

Dr. Leite Lopes Airport (RAO)

Located approximately 61 km from Matão, this is a larger airport in Ribeirão Preto that offers commercial flights to major cities.

Viracopos International Airport (VCP)

Around 139 km from Matão, this is a significant international airport located in Campinas with a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in the context of small to medium-sized cities like Matão can greatly influence the quality of life for the residents. In areas with good walkability, streets are typically designed to be pedestrian-friendly, featuring safe sidewalks, crosswalks, and accessibility to amenities such as shops, parks, and public facilities. The overall infrastructure encourages walking as a means of transportation, promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing reliance on vehicles. In Matão, the compact layout of neighborhoods often allows residents to access schools, markets, and recreational spaces within a short walking distance. The presence of green areas, public squares, and pedestrian-friendly streets can enhance social interaction and community engagement. However, factors such as traffic congestion, road conditions, and the availability of pedestrian pathways can significantly affect how walkable an area is. Efforts to improve walkability can also include urban planning initiatives that prioritize pedestrian safety, such as improved lighting, signage, and traffic calming measures. Enhancing walkability can have far-reaching benefits, from boosting local economic activity to improving public health by encouraging residents to walk more often.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

The largest ethnic group in Matão, comprising a significant portion of the population, typically with European ancestry.

Brown

A demographic group consisting of individuals with mixed ancestry, often including Indigenous and European heritage.

Black

A minority demographic group in Matão, representing individuals of African descent.

Asian

A small demographic group in Matão, primarily consisting of individuals with Asian heritage.

Indigenous

The smallest demographic group, representing the native peoples of Brazil.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Matão, as in much of Brazil, with many local teams and passionate fans.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a significant following in Matão, with various local leagues and schools promoting the sport.

Volleyball

Volleyball is widely played, especially in schools, and has a dedicated community of players and fans.

Futsal

Futsal, a variant of football played indoors, is very popular in Matão, with many youth leagues and tournaments.

Athletics

Athletics, including track and field events, is promoted in schools and local competitions, encouraging youth participation.

Traffic

In this Brazilian city, traffic can be characterized by a mix of urban and rural elements. The main roads typically see a variety of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, buses, and occasional agricultural machinery, reflecting the region's agricultural activities. During peak hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon, congestion can occur, especially near commercial areas and schools. Public transportation is also present, with bus services connecting different neighborhoods. Traffic lights and signage help manage the flow, but like many places, drivers may encounter delays due to road maintenance or weather conditions. Parking can be challenging in busy areas, and pedestrians share the roads with vehicles, necessitating caution. Overall, the traffic situation is generally manageable, but it can vary depending on the time of day and specific events in the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matão.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While the local cuisine leans heavily towards meat-based dishes, many restaurants in Matão offer vegetarian and vegan options. Dona Maria's Restaurante, for instance, provides flavorful vegetarian feijoada and grilled vegetable platters.

Gluten-free Options

Several establishments in Matão are cognizant of gluten-free dietary needs, with dishes like tapioca crepes, fresh salads, and grilled fish readily available.

Healthcare

In this municipality, the healthcare system includes a network of public and private services, aimed at ensuring access to medical care for its residents. The Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), Brazil's public healthcare system, plays a primary role in providing services, including primary care, emergency services, and specialized treatments. Primary healthcare is facilitated through local health units known as "Unidades Básicas de Saúde" (UBS), where residents can receive routine medical check-ups, immunizations, and preventive care. These centers often focus on community health initiatives and promote health education. For more specialized medical services, there are hospitals and clinics, both public and private. The public hospitals typically offer a broad range of services, but they may experience challenges such as resource limitations and high demand. Private healthcare options exist for those who can afford them and often provide faster access to services and a wider range of medical professionals. Overall, the healthcare landscape in this region reflects a blend of public efforts and private enterprise, addressing the diverse needs of the population while striving to overcome challenges inherent in Brazil's healthcare system. Efforts continue to improve access, quality, and sustainability of healthcare services for all residents.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2024 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide