Things To Do
in Quilombo

Quilombo is a small municipality in southern Brazil set among rolling hills and green valleys. It preserves Afro-Brazilian heritage and a welcoming, community-driven spirit that shines through festivals, crafts, and song. The town combines rural charm with proximity to nature reserves, offering easy walking paths and scenic viewpoints.

Visitors are greeted by friendly locals and an unhurried pace that invites exploration on foot and by bike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Quilombo
morning
:

Arrive in Quilombo and take in the lush, green surroundings that greet you upon landing. After settling into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast filled with local flavors. Take some time to explore the vibrant streets of this charming town, soaking in the warm Brazilian sun.

afternoon
:

Embark on a guided tour to learn about the rich history and culture of the Quilombo community. Visit local artists and craftspeople to witness traditional techniques and maybe pick up a unique souvenir. Delight in a lunch featuring local dishes at a cozy eatery, immersing yourself in the flavors of the region.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner where you can savor regional delicacies. Engage with locals who are eager to share stories and traditions, creating unforgettable connections. Stroll through the town’s lively nighttime atmosphere, enjoying the sounds of music and laughter.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local cultural center that showcases the rich heritage of the Quilombo community. Attend a workshop where you can learn traditional crafts, such as weaving or pottery. Enjoy a breakfast prepared with community ingredients for an authentic taste of local life.

afternoon
:

Participate in a traditional dance class to immerse yourself in the joyful rhythms celebrated by the Quilombo people. Afterward, explore nearby markets to sample street food and shop for handmade goods. Enjoy an afternoon coffee at a local cafe while chatting with residents about their daily lives.

evening
:

Join a cultural event featuring folklore performances and storytelling that highlight the history of the Quilombo culture. Engage with the performers and learn about the significance of the dances and stories. Savor a hearty dinner prepared by local chefs, accompanied by traditional music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
🛏️One night in budget hotel$25-60
Coffee$1-3
🚌Local transit ticket (one-way)$0.50-1.50
🧺Groceries for a few days$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm hospitality and strong sense of community
  • Rich Afro-Brazilian heritage and cultural traditions
  • Accessible nature, scenic viewpoints, and relaxed pace
  • Affordable costs and authentic regional cuisine
  • Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist services
  • Public transport options may be infrequent outside town centers
  • Some facilities may have limited English-speaking staff
  • Weather can be humid or cool, so packing varies by season
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Estou perdido" - I am lost
  • "Pode recomendar algum lugar?" - Could you recommend somewhere?
  • "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "Saúde" - Cheers

Places to Visit in Quilombo

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça Central and Igreja Matriz

A picturesque central square framed by colonial-era buildings and a landmark church, ideal for morning light and street photography.

Centro Histórico

Colorful façades, narrow lanes, and crafts stalls provide texture and human-scale scenes perfect for candid portraits.

Mirante das Colinas

A viewpoint over the surrounding hills offering sweeping landscapes, ideal for sunset shots.

Ribeirão das Pedras

A small riverfront area with natural textures, reflections, and local life along the water’s edge.

Culinary Guide

Food in Quilombo

Quilombo’s cuisine blends Indigenous, European (Portuguese, German, Italian), and Afro-Brazilian influences, centered on fresh produce, hearty grains, and regional cheeses.

Quilombo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barreado

A slow-cooked meat stew traditionally served with farofa and plantains; a regional staple with comforting, rich flavors.

Must-Try!

Polenta com queijo

Creamy polenta topped or baked with local cheese; a comforting, versatile dish often enjoyed with sides of legumes or greens.

Pinhão cozido/assado

Boiled or roasted pine nuts from Araucaria forests, a seasonal snack and ingredient in some dishes.

Feijoada regional

A lighter, day-to-day version of the classic black bean stew, often adapted with local ingredients and served with rice.

Cuca (bolo tipo pão assado)

A traditional cake-like bread, sometimes fruit-filled or topped with cinnamon; a common dessert or afternoon snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Quilombo

A small municipal market where you can sample fresh produce, regional cheeses, and street snacks such as tapioca and pastel.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with rain showers, while winters are cool to mild with cooler nights. Overall rainfall is moderate to high throughout the year, contributing to lush greenery in the region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde' and a handshake or hug with people you know. Use 'por favor' and 'obrigado(a)' in most interactions.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Public displays of affection are generally acceptable but subtle in formal settings.

Photography

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in small communities or at events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure in crowded areas, especially markets; use well-lit streets at night and avoid isolated rural roads after dark. Be mindful of weather-related risks such as sudden rain or floods in low-lying areas, and follow local guidance during outdoor activities. Emergency numbers are the same as in Brazil (192 SAMU, 193 Fire).

Tipping in Quilombo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is not included, leave about 5-10% at restaurants; small bars may receive a modest tip. Cash tips are common but cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Payment Methods

Cash (BRL) is widely accepted; major credit/debit cards are common in towns and restaurants. Pix and other mobile payment options are increasingly popular; carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and fewer rain showers; a comfortable period for walking tours and outdoor photography.

Winter

Cool to mild with chilly nights; pack a light jacket and layers; some days can be rainy, so a waterproof layer is useful.

Spring

Warming weather with occasional showers; lush landscapes and blooming trees create great scenery for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Quilombo at Night

Quilombo’s nightlife is intimate and low-key, centered on cozy bars, family-run taverns, and occasional live music or community events on weekends. Expect friendly conversation, regional snacks, and a relaxed pace rather than a party scene; festivals and dances can provide lively evenings during holidays and local celebrations.

Hiking in Quilombo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Serra das Aves

A scenic ridge trail offering panoramic views and opportunities for wildlife watching.

Cascata do Rio Itapocu

Waterfall hike with a rewarding splash pool; suitable for a half-day excursion.

Bosque Reserva da Mata Atlântica

Gentle forest trails highlighting flora and birdlife; ideal for nature photography.

Airports

How to reach Quilombo by plane.

Chapecó Regional Airport (XAX)

Major regional gateway in Santa Catarina with connections to larger Brazilian cities; ground transport options available to Quilombo.

Joinville-Lauro Carneiro de Loyola Airport (JOI)

Serves the northern part of Santa Catarina with domestic flights; typical transfer by road to southern towns.

Florianópolis Hercílio Luz International Airport (FLN)

Regional international gateway; a longer drive but broad flight options and frequent services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Quilombo is a compact town with a walkable center. Sidewalks are common in the core area, making it easy to explore the praça, markets, and churches on foot. Some outskirts and rural paths may require a short drive or bicycle ride, and hilly streets can be challenging for casual walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Afro-Brazilian communities

Strong historical and cultural presence associated with Quilombo’s heritage; communities often actively celebrate music, crafts, and local history.

European-descendant communities

Longstanding influence from German, Italian, and Portuguese ancestry visible in architecture, cuisine, and local traditions.

Indigenous influences

Residual influences in local crafts and culinary practices typical of southern Brazil’s broader cultural tapestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The predominant sport in the region with local matches and community leagues.

Volleyball and futsal

Common in schools and community centers; informal play in parks and gyms.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Quilombo is typically light, with most movement happening on local roads. Public transportation is modest, so many visitors rely on taxis or rental cars for day trips. In rural areas, road conditions can vary, so check local advice during the rainy season and plan extra time for travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Quilombo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted; look for polenta, bean and lentil stews, roasted vegetables, salads, and queijo (cheese) plates. Ask for no meat in barreado-style dishes; request veggie-friendly sides when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in town through basic clinics and a few private practices. For more advanced care, residents typically travel to larger nearby cities with hospitals. Carry health insurance information and bring any necessary prescriptions; Brazil’s public health system (SUS) is accessible, but private facilities often provide more prompt service.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide