Things To Do
in Pedro Afonso

Riverside promenade with wide views, colorful boats, fishermen and dramatic sunrise/sunset light ideal for landscape and lifestyle shots.

Local architecture, people in everyday activities and market stalls provide candid street-photography opportunities.

Exposed sandbanks and small river beaches during the dry season create striking foregrounds against the river and sky.

Open savanna landscapes at golden hour are excellent for wide-angle shots, capturing low vegetation, solitary trees and big skies.

Fresh river fish, often seasoned simply and grilled over charcoal — commonly found at riverside restaurants and during festivals.

Must-Try!

Cassava-based side dishes: farofa (toasted manioc flour) and pirão (a thick porridge made with fish broth) served alongside fish and meat dishes.

Rice cooked with pequi (a regional fruit with a strong flavor) — a Tocantins specialty available in local restaurants when pequi is in season.

Sweets made from local fruits (caju, manga, banana) and coconut; often sold at markets and family bakeries.

A handshake is common in formal situations; friends and acquaintances may exchange one or two cheek kisses (usually one in many parts of Brazil) and use first names. Politeness formulas (por favor, obrigado/obrigada) are appreciated.

Dress is generally casual; however, modest clothing is expected for religious sites. Remove hats when entering churches and speak quietly during services.

Be friendly, patient and warm in conversation. Avoid sensitive topics such as personal finances and some political debates unless you know the people well.

Some homes may request visitors to remove shoes — accept the custom if invited.

Tipping is not mandatory; many restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill (confira a conta). For small cafés or street food, rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated. For guides and boat operators, a modest tip is customary if service was good.

Brazilian real (BRL) is the currency; cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted at larger restaurants and shops, but many small vendors and markets are cash-only. Carry enough cash for markets, taxis and small purchases; ATMs are available but may be limited outside bank hours.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; expect sudden heavy rains that can affect dirt roads. Mornings are best for outdoor plans and photography; pack rain gear and waterproof bags for equipment.

Still warm with decreasing rainfall; conditions become more stable and rivers may remain high early in the season. Good time for river activities as vegetation is lush.

Dry season with lower humidity, clearer skies and cooler nights — the best time for hiking, exploring river beaches and driving on dirt roads. Mosquito numbers fall but sun exposure increases, so sunscreen is essential.

Heat and humidity rise again with the start of rains later in the season; rivers begin to fill and countryside becomes green. Be prepared for dust early in the season and then for sudden showers.

The population includes many Brazilians of mixed heritage and descendants of internal migrants who settled for agriculture and trade.

Communities living along the Tocantins River with a lifestyle tied to fishing and small-scale agriculture.

Surrounding countryside is dominated by family farms and cattle ranches which shape local economy and culture.

Indigenous and traditional cultural influences are present in the broader Tocantins region, visible in crafts, food and knowledge of the land.

Vegetarian options are limited but possible: manioc dishes, rice and beans, salads and fruit. Communicate clearly at restaurants ("sou vegetariano(a)") and be prepared to request simple preparations without meat or fish.

Vegan dining requires planning; markets offer fruit, roots and rice, but many traditional dishes use butter or fish broth. Bring snacks and be explicit about no animal products.

Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, grilled meat, fish, cassava-based items), but always ask about cross-contamination and wheat-based preparations like pastéis.

Carry a translated note explaining your allergies in Portuguese and inform restaurants; local staff are usually helpful but facilities are simple.