Things To Do
in Não-Me-Toque

Não-Me-Toque is a small agricultural town in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, known for its dairy heritage and friendly rural vibe. The town blends a calm pace of life with subtle German-Brazilian cultural influences seen in architecture, cuisine, and community events. It sits on the rolling pampas, offering open skies, farm visits, and colorful markets.

Visitors will find an approachable base for countryside strolls, family-owned eateries, and authentic regional experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Town Center
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque town center of Não-Me-Toque, where you can admire the beautifully maintained colonial architecture. Stop by a local bakery for a fresh pão de queijo and a cup of coffee while soaking in the early morning ambiance. The vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by friendly locals, sets a perfect tone for the day's adventures.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Museu Histórico, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. The museum offers fascinating exhibits and artifacts that reflect the life of the early settlers and the development of Não-Me-Toque. After your visit, take a leisurely walk through the adjacent park to enjoy some fresh air and nature.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, dine at one of the local restaurants that showcase traditional Brazilian cuisine. Enjoy a comforting meal of feijoada or churrasco while savoring the warm hospitality of the locals. After dinner, take a relaxed walk back to your accommodation, perhaps stopping to take in the evening lights of the town.

day 2
Nature at Its Best
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to one of the nearby natural parks, where you can immerse yourself in the pristine landscape. Take a guided hike through lush trails, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, and learn about the importance of these ecosystems. The fresh morning air and enchanting sounds of nature invigorate your spirit.

afternoon
:

After a morning filled with breathtaking views, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the trees where you can indulge in local delicacies. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply relishing the calmness that nature offers. This peaceful retreat is a wonderful way to recharge and connect with the environment.

evening
:

As sunset approaches, head to a scenic viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Capture the vibrant colors of the sky with your camera or simply savor the moment in silence. Afterward, return to town for a cozy dinner, sharing stories of your day's experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or pastry$2-5
🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
🚖One-way taxi ride$5-12
🛏️Budget hotel room per night$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, friendly small-town atmosphere
  • Strong dairy and agricultural culture with fresh produce
  • Good value for money and easy to navigate
  • Limited nightlife and international dining options
  • Fewer big-city attractions nearby
  • Public transport options can be sparse outside the town center
  • "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?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "Quero uma água" - I’d like a water
  • "Quais são as opções sem carne?" - What are the vegetarian options?

Places to Visit in Não-Me-Toque

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça da República

The main town square with colorful storefronts, a church spire, and lively morning markets—great for candid street photography and architectural shots.

Igreja Matriz

A local church with classic masonry and surrounding greenery; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photos.

Ponte sobre o Arroio

A small bridge over a leafy stream, perfect for tranquil reflections and landscape frames.

Culinary Guide

Food in Não-Me-Toque

Não-Me-Toque’s cuisine leans on dairy, beef and corn, with strong improvised touches from German and Italian heritage. Expect hearty, comforting dishes and fresh dairy products sourced from nearby farms.

Não-Me-Toque Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco Gaúcho

Traditional grilled meats served with sides like rice, beans and salad; widely available at local churrascarias and family-run eateries.

Must-Try!

Arroz de Carreteiro

A flavorful one-pot rice dish with beef and sausage, a staple in gaucho cooking found in many regional menus.

Chimarrão (mate)

Herbal tea naturally shared among companions; a quintessential part of local hospitality, often enjoyed at the table.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread rounds that make for a popular breakfast or snack, found in bakeries and cafés across town.

Queijo Colonial

Fermented and aged cheeses produced by nearby dairies; look for them at markets and dairy shops.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Não-Me-Toque

A neighborhood market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, bread and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling regional dairy products and street foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Não-Me-Toque experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. Rain is most common in the warm months, while winters can bring crisp mornings. The region enjoys abundant sunshine overall, with lush green landscapes in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or friendly nod is common. Use polite forms such as senhor/senhora with elders and avoid overly informal address in first encounters.

Mealtimes

Meal times are social and relaxed; waiting for everyone to start before eating is polite. Keep voices moderate in public spaces.

Dress

Casual, neat clothing is typical in town centers; rural areas favor practical attire for farms and markets.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for visitors in the daytime. Exercise normal precautions at night in less crowded areas, keep valuables secure, and be attentive on rural roads after dark. Road conditions can vary, so a cautious drive is advised on less-maintained routes.

Tipping in Não-Me-Toque

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are not always included; a 5-10% tip in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up bills and tip smaller amounts at casual cafés if service is good.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, while credit/debit cards are common in shops and restaurants. Mobile payments like Pix are increasingly popular for quick transfers and purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with high humidity; occasional thunderstorms. Carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with golden light; great for countryside photography and pleasant walks. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Winter

Cool to chilly days; frost possible on clear mornings. Layered clothing is essential; indoor cafés and markets are cozy options.

Spring

Mild and variable weather with periodic rain showers; ideal for hiking and market visits as greenery returns.

Nightlife Guide

Não-Me-Toque at Night

The nightlife in Não-Me-Toque is low-key and community-centered. Expect small bars and botecos, live music on weekends, and social gatherings at the central praça. For a livelier scene, plan visits to larger nearby cities or join seasonal local festas that often feature music, dancing, and regional food.

Hiking in Não-Me-Toque

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro da Serra

A moderate hill hike offering countryside vistas and opportunities for wildlife watching.

Trilha do Arroio Central

Riverside trail along a small stream, ideal for easy walks and photography near water.

Airports

How to reach Não-Me-Toque by plane.

Porto Alegre International Airport (POA)

Main international airport for the region; a common gateway for international travelers heading to Rio Grande do Sul.

Aeroporto Lauro Kortz (PFB) – Passo Fundo

Regional gateway serving northern Rio Grande do Sul; convenient for domestic travel and regional connections.

Santa Maria Regional Airport (RIA)

Regional airport serving mid-state; useful for access to central and southern parts of Rio Grande do Sul.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with essential services and markets within easy reach. Beyond the core, you’ll want a car or bike for broader exploration of the surrounding countryside.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

German-descended communities

Legacy of European immigration is visible in family names, local cuisine and some architectural styles.

Agricultural families

A sizable portion of residents work in farming, dairies and related industries, contributing to a strong rural culture.

Youth and families

A family-friendly town with schools and community events; everyday life centers around markets, churches and local festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol

Soccer is the dominant sport in the region, with local leagues and informal games common in streets and community fields.

Atletismo e atividades ao ar livre

Track and field or hiking-inspired activities are popular, especially among families and youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light within the town, with limited public transit coverage beyond the center. For longer trips, driving or using regional buses is common. Roads in rural areas can be narrow and slower, so plan extra time.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Não-Me-Toque.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

As a vegetarian, seek dishes centered on cheese, grains and vegetables, and ask for dishes without carne. Request queijo and legumes-based options, and opt for pães, pastas and salads while avoiding meat-heavy plates.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Não-Me-Toque includes basic clinics and local medical services. For more specialized care or hospital-level services, residents typically go to larger nearby cities in the region. Emergency medical services are available locally, with transport to larger facilities when needed.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide