Things To Do
in Nova Olímpia
Nova Olímpia is a small Brazilian town in the central-west region, embraced by cerrado plains and rivers. It blends agrarian charm with a growing scene of cafés, markets, and friendly locals. Visitors often experience warm hospitality, easy hikes, and vibrant sunsets along the riverfront.
The town serves as a gateway to Pantanal-adjacent nature and authentic regional cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the historical center of Nova Olímpia, where you can admire colonial architecture and take a stroll through picturesque streets. Visit local artisan shops to experience the rich culture and craftsmanship of the region. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café, sampling delicious pão de queijo and fresh fruit juices.
After a leisurely morning, head to the nearby museums for an in-depth look at the history of the area, including exhibits on the local indigenous populations. Enjoy a lunch featuring regional specialties, which will give you a taste of the unique flavors that define Nova Olímpia. Spend the afternoon visiting local parks, where you can relax amidst the natural beauty of the region.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to indulge in a dinner of freshly caught fish or grilled meats. Immerse yourself in the nightlife, mingling with locals and enjoying live music that often features traditional Brazilian rhythms. Cap off your evening with a stroll through the town square, where street vendors serve up delicious treats and handicrafts.
Start your day with a visit to the famous hot springs of Nova Olímpia, known for their therapeutic waters. The morning air is crisp, making it the ideal time to soak in the warm pools while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take a dip to relax and rejuvenate your body before the day begins.
After a revitalizing morning, savor lunch at a nearby café that serves local cuisine, perhaps trying dishes made from fresh, organic ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring additional attractions like waterfalls and hiking trails in the nearby nature reserve. Embrace the outdoors, engaging in activities like bird watching or simply soaking in the serene environment.
As night falls, return to the hot springs for a magical experience under the stars, where the gentle sound of water adds to the ambiance. Encourage warm conversations with fellow travelers or locals who join you at the springs, sharing stories and cultures. Dine at a local barbecue joint where you can enjoy delicious grilled meats and traditional sides.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city centre (monthly) | $260-420 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil, friendly with easy access to nature
- Affordable prices and authentic regional cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Fewer English-speaking services may require using Portuguese
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "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?
- "A conta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Nova Olímpia
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with colonial-era buildings and a central fountain, ideal for morning light and locals at leisure.
Hilltop viewpoint over the cerrado plains, perfect for golden hour panoramas.
A scenic bridge offering reflections of the river and sky, especially at sunset.
Shoreline trails along the river with reed beds and birdlife; good for sunrise shots.
Food in Nova Olímpia
Nova Olímpia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fish stew from Pantanal rivers, usually with pintado or dourado, served with rice and cassava.
Must-Try!
Assorted grilled meats with regional seasonings, best enjoyed at a churrascaria or parrilla.
Crispy fried cassava, a common accompaniment and snack.
Cheese bread, a Brazilian staple found in cafés and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small but lively market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and snacks.
Evening street stalls with grilled meats, mandioca, fruit smoothies, and local crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; closer friends may greet with a kiss on the cheek in some circles. Use polite titles Senhor/Senhora when addressing strangers.
Small talk about family, football, and weather is common. Avoid sensitive topics in initial meetings.
Casual but neat attire is fine in most places; modest dress is appreciated at religious sites. Punctuality is flexible in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Nova Olímpia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving around 5-10% is common if service is not included; in many places 10-15% is standard for good service. Small tips for bar staff or taxi drivers are appreciated but not required.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted, but credit/debit cards are common in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Mobile payments and PIX are increasingly popular for quick transfers and purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daily thunderstorms building in the late afternoon; carry rain gear and stay hydrated.
Warm days and cooler evenings; a pleasant time for outdoor walks and light clothing layers.
Dry season with milder daytime temperatures and cooler nights; pleasant for hiking, especially at higher elevations.
Warming trend with lush vegetation; wildlife activity increases, making early mornings ideal for wildlife photography.
Nova Olímpia at Night
Hiking in Nova Olímpia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate 3-4 hour loop through savanna with frequent birdlife and viewpoints.
Easy riverside trail with chances to spot caiman and river birds; good for sunrise.
Airports
How to reach Nova Olímpia by plane.
Nearest major gateway serving Cuiabá and the region; connect to São Paulo, Brasília, and other hubs; approximately a several-hour drive from Nova Olímpia.
Smaller regional airstrips can be used for charters or connecting to larger hubs; schedules vary seasonally.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families involved in agriculture, service industries, and small businesses.
Domestic travelers from Brazil and international visitors seeking nature and regional culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely followed and played in local leagues.
Active community groups offering classes and informal street performances.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Olímpia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; focus on beans, rice, mandioca, salads, and fresh fruit. Look for 'vegetariano' or ask for 'sem carne' on menus.