Things To Do
in Montes Altos
Montes Altos is a small municipality located in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. It is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and serene landscapes, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of plant and animal species.
The town itself has a laid-back atmosphere, with friendly locals and charming streets to explore.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the serene trails of Montes Altos. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit the local botanical gardens to discover native flora and fauna. Take a picnic lunch to fully enjoy the beauty of nature.
Unwind at a cozy local restaurant with traditional Brazilian dishes. Savor the flavors while watching the sunset over the hills.
Gear up for a thrilling day of rock climbing. Receive guidance from experienced instructors and conquer your fears.
Take a break and have lunch at a nearby café that offers local specialties. Fuel up for more adventures ahead!
Join a guided night walk to experience the unique nocturnal wildlife of Montes Altos. Listen to the sounds of nature as you explore under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with mountainous landscapes and rich biodiversity.
- Cultural heritage with a mix of indigenous and colonial influences.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and ecological tourism.
- Mild climate, suitable for year-round visitation and agriculture.
- Strong sense of community among residents and local organizations.
- Limited infrastructure and access to modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Economic challenges and fewer job opportunities for residents.
- Potential for environmental degradation due to tourism pressure.
- Seasonal changes may affect availability of services and activities.
- Health care facilities may be limited and require travel for serious issues.
Best Activities in Montes Altos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of Montes Altos, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to connect with nature.
Montes Altos is home to diverse bird species; bring your binoculars and enjoy observing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Set up camp in the scenic areas of Montes Altos, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature under the stars.
Ride the varied terrain with stunning vistas while enjoying the thrill of mountain biking in the hills surrounding Montes Altos.
Capture the stunning landscapes, unique flora, and fauna of Montes Altos, making it a perfect destination for photographers.
Engage in peaceful fishing activities in local rivers and lakes, where you can relax and enjoy the serene environment.
Experience the rich biodiversity of the region by observing different wildlife species in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Montes Altos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Montes Altos
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning viewpoint that overlooks the lush green valleys and hills of Montes Altos, perfect for capturing panoramic shots.
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by nature, offering unique photo opportunities with its cascading water and beautiful scenery.
The main square in town featuring the charming Matriz Church, providing a great backdrop for photos with historic architecture.
A hiking trail that leads to breathtaking viewpoints along the way, ideal for nature photography and capturing the flora of the region.
A serene lake surrounded by hills, where visitors can take stunning reflections of nature in their photos, especially during sunset.
Food in Montes Altos
Montes Altos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Brazilian fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, seasoned with local herbs and spices. It is typically served with rice and farofa.
Must-Try!
Considered the national dish of Brazil, feijoada is a hearty black bean stew with various cuts of pork, beef, and sausage. It's often accompanied by rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
A popular Brazilian street food, pastel is a deep-fried pastry filled with assorted savory fillings such as cheese, ground meat, or shrimp.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Montes Altos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local ingredients, and authentic street food stalls where you can sample traditional snacks like acarajé, tapioca, and coxinha.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Montes Altos, it is customary to greet people with a warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. Always address people by their title and surname unless invited to use their first name.
When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Also, remember to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and try to finish everything on your plate to show appreciation for the meal.
People in Montes Altos take pride in their appearance. Dress neatly and appropriately for occasions, as casual attire is generally considered disrespectful in formal settings. When visiting religious sites, conservative clothing is a must.
Safety
Tipping in Montes Altos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Montes Altos, Brazil, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. A common practice is to leave a 10% tip on restaurant bills, especially if service is good. In bars or cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also common. Tipping taxi drivers is less frequent, but rounding up to the nearest real is customary.
Payment methods in Montes Altos typically include cash, debit, and credit cards. Cash remains popular, especially in smaller establishments. Many restaurants and shops accept digital payments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets where electronic payments may not be available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer in Montes Altos is warm to hot, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is common during this season, especially in January and February. Visitors can expect lush greenery, vibrant wildlife, and various outdoor activities. However, it's also peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be busy.
Autumn offers mild temperatures, generally ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Rain tends to taper off, making it a pleasant time for outdoor exploration. The landscape transforms with beautiful fall foliage, and there are fewer tourists compared to summer, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Winter is the coolest season in Montes Altos, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). While it's drier, visitors should prepare for chilly nights. This season is ideal for those who enjoy hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region without the crowds.
Spring sees a return of warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, particularly in November. The region blooms with colorful flowers and greenery, making it a visually stunning time to visit. Wildlife is active, and the climate is generally comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Montes Altos at Night
Hiking in Montes Altos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park known for its diverse flora and fauna, offering several trails through beautiful landscapes and waterfalls.
A scenic hiking trail that takes you through stunning countryside and offers panoramic views of the region.
A moderate hike suitable for families, featuring lush vegetation and opportunities for wildlife observation.
A large park with various trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
A hiking spot featuring dramatic canyon views and rugged terrain, popular among experienced hikers.
A beautiful valley with several trails that lead to picturesque spots, perfect for a day of hiking and exploration.
Aiports
How to reach Montes Altos by plane.
Located approximately 300 km from Montes Altos, this airport serves domestic flights and is one of the main airports in the state of Minas Gerais.
Situated about 320 km from Montes Altos, this is the largest international airport serving Belo Horizonte, with numerous domestic and international flights.
Approximately 400 km from Montes Altos, this airport serves the city of Campo Grande and offers some international connections.
Around 600 km from Montes Altos, located in Salvador, it's one of the busiest airports in the Northeast of Brazil with various domestic and international routes.
About 900 km from Montes Altos, this is the main international airport in São Paulo and one of the busiest in South America, with a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Various indigenous groups inhabit the Montes Altos region, contributing to the cultural and ethnic diversity.
A significant portion of the population is mixed race, reflecting the country's diverse ancestry.
Individuals of European descent represent a noteworthy demographic in Montes Altos.
People of African descent form a vital part of the population, influencing the region's culture.
Smaller communities of Asian descent, including Japanese and Lebanese immigrants, are present.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Montes Altos, with a strong community involvement in local clubs and matches.
Volleyball is widely played in Montes Altos, enjoyed both recreationally and competitively among locals.
Basketball has a growing following in Montes Altos, with schools and local leagues hosting games regularly.
Futsal, a variant of soccer played indoors, is popular in Montes Altos, especially among youth and in schools.
Running is a favored recreational activity, with many locals participating in both casual and organized running events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montes Altos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Brazilian cuisine often features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Montes Altos now cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering an array of plant-based alternatives and creative vegetarian spins on classic recipes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating eateries in Montes Altos, with several establishments offering gluten-free versions of staple dishes and utilizing naturally gluten-free ingredients prevalent in Brazilian cooking.