Pernambuco’s Rural Tourism Route is a journey through bucolic and enchanting landscapes, abundant gastronomy and the whole universe of the interior of the state.

The Rural Tourism Route is a guide created especially for domestic and foreign tourists arriving in Pernambuco interested in discovering different tourist options.

The initiative also aims to encourage Pernambuco residents to get to know the state itself.

Videos – Tourist Attractions of the Rural Tourism Route of Pernambuco

Roteiro do Rota Turismo Rural Pernambuco

Tourist attractions in the towns on Pernambuco’s Rural Tourism Route

The interior of Pernambuco is an area rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Located on the southern coast of Pernambuco, this region stands out for its diverse landscapes, economy based on agriculture and tourism, as well as its significant cultural heritage.

1. Nazaré da Mata
2. Goiana
3. São Benedito do Sul
4. Vicência
5. Bezerros
6. Bonito
7. Gravatá
8. Triunfo
9. Caruaru

1. Nazaré da Mata

Nazaré da Mata is a municipality located in the Zona da Mata Norte of Pernambuco, known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional festivals and beautiful natural landscapes.

1. Culture and Traditions

• Maracatu Rural: Nazaré da Mata is considered the capital of Maracatu Rural, a traditional cultural manifestation that mixes music, dance and theatre, originating in Brazil’s colonial period. The Maracatu parade during Carnival is an unmissable experience, with its colourful spear-wielding caboclos, percussive instruments and vibrant dances.
• Centre of Handicrafts and Popular Culture: This centre displays a variety of local handicrafts, especially those linked to Maracatu. Guided tours, shopping for handicrafts and participation in craft workshops.
• Festa de São Sebastião: Celebrated in January, this religious festival is one of the most important in the city, with processions, masses, concerts and cultural performances.

2. Historical and architectural heritage

• Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church: A beautiful colonial church that is a historical and religious landmark of the town.
• Sugar Cane Mills:< The region is full of old sugar mills, some of which are still in operation. Guided tours to learn about the sugar and cachaça production process, as well as tastings.

3. Natural Beauty and Ecotourism

• Ecological Trails: The rural area of Nazaré da Mata offers several ecological trails that pass through landscapes of Atlantic forest and cultivated areas.
• Rivers and Waterfalls: The region has rivers and waterfalls that are great for swimming and picnics.

How to get there by car

• Description: Nazaré da Mata is located around 65 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-408 and PE-052 motorways.
• Travelling time: Approximately 1 hour by car from Recife.

2. Goiana

Goiana is a municipality located in the Zona da Mata Norte of Pernambuco, with a rich colonial history, beautiful beaches and a vibrant local culture. It is a destination that offers a combination of historical heritage, natural beauty and cultural traditions. Here is some information and tourist attractions in Goiana, PE:

1. History and Cultural Heritage

• Historic Centre: The centre of Goiana has a preserved colonial architectural complex, with mansions, churches and other historic buildings.
• Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário Church: One of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the region, built in the Baroque style.
• Igreja de São Gonçalo do Amarante: Another historic church, famous for its high altar carved in wood.

2. Culture and Traditions

• Coco de Roda: Goiana is known for its tradition of Coco de Roda, a folk dance typical of the Northeast.
• Carnival and Popular Festivals: Goiana’s Carnival is vibrant, with street blocks, maracatu and other cultural manifestations.

3. Natural beauty and ecotourism

Beaches

• Ponta de Pedras Beach: Known for its calm waters and white sand, it is ideal for swimming and family activities.
• Praia de Carne de Vaca: Less well known but equally beautiful, it offers a tranquil setting and picturesque scenery.

Itapessoca Ecological Reserve

• Description: An environmental preservation area rich in biodiversity.
• Activities: Ecological trails, bird watching and contact with nature.

How to get there by car

• Description: Goiana is located about 63 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-101 motorway.
• Travelling Time: Approximately 1 hour by car from Recife.

3. São Benedito do Sul

São Benedito do Sul, located in the Zona da Mata Sul of Pernambuco, is a municipality known for its natural beauty, especially its waterfalls, and for its cultural traditions. The town offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and those looking for an authentic experience in the interior of Pernambuco.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

The region is rich in ecological trails that lead to various waterfalls and viewpoints, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic forest.

Waterfalls

• Véu da Noiva Waterfall: One of the most famous in the region, with an impressive waterfall and natural pools ideal for swimming.
• Poço do Soldado Waterfall: Known for its clear waters and unique rock formation.
• Cachoeira do Poço do Caboclo: A beautiful waterfall with areas for picnics and refreshing swims.
• Laje Waterfall: Ideal for those who like to explore and venture out on trails.
• Pedra Branca Waterfall: A picturesque and tranquil spot, perfect for those seeking peace and contact with nature.
• Aritana Waterfall: Another beautiful waterfall, known for its crystal-clear waters and natural beauty.
• Good View Waterfall: Excellent for swimming and leisure time with the family.

2. Culture and Traditions

• Festa de São Benedito: The feast of the city’s patron saint, celebrated with masses, processions, cultural presentations and concerts.
• Carnival: A vibrant time in the city, with parades, blocks and lots of entertainment.
• Local Handicrafts: The city is known for its handicrafts, especially those made with natural materials and traditional techniques.

How to get there by car

• Description: São Benedito do Sul is located about 130 kilometres from Recife. It can be reached via the BR-101 and PE-126 motorways.
• Travelling Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by car from Recife.

4. Vicência

Vicência, located in the Zona da Mata Norte of Pernambuco, is a municipality that offers a rich mix of natural beauty, historical and cultural heritage, and a welcoming community. Known for its rural landscapes, sugar cane mills and cultural traditions, Vicência is an enchanting destination for those seeking an authentic experience in the interior of Pernambuco.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

• Sugar Cane Mills: Vicência is known for its old sugar cane mills, which bear witness to the region’s rich agricultural history.
• Ecological Trails: The region offers several ecological trails that pass through areas of Atlantic forest and rural landscapes.
• Rivers and Waterfalls: Vicência has rivers and waterfalls that are ideal for bathing and moments of leisure.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Matriz de Santa Ana Church: A historic church and one of the city’s most important religious landmarks.
• Historic Houses and Sites: The city has several historic houses and sites that reflect colonial architecture and local history.

3. Culture and Traditions

Popular Festivals

• Festa de Santa Ana: Celebrated in July, it is the feast of the town’s patron saint, with masses, processions, concerts and cultural performances.
• Carnival: Carnival in Vicência is marked by parades, blocks and the vibrant participation of the community.

Local Crafts

• Vicência is known for its handicrafts, especially those made from local materials.

How to get there by car

• Description: Vicência is located about 90 kilometres from Recife. It can be reached via the BR-101 and PE-074 motorways.
• Travelling time: Approximately 2 hours by car from Recife.

5. Bezerros

Bezerros is a municipality located in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, known for its rich culture, popular traditions and natural beauty. The town offers a variety of tourist attractions, ranging from traditional festivals to nature trails and local handicrafts.

1. Culture and Traditions

• Papangus Carnival: Bezerros is famous for its Papangus Carnival, where revellers wear colourful masks and elaborate costumes, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. It is one of the most traditional and authentic carnivals in Pernambuco.
• Papangu handicrafts: Bezerros is known for its Papangu mask handicrafts, a local tradition. Visit craft workshops and shop for masks and other handicraft products.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Matriz de São José Church: One of the most important churches in the city, with beautiful architecture and historical significance.
• Papangu Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Papangu, with exhibitions of masks, costumes and historical documents. Visit and learn about the tradition of the Papangus.

3. Natural Beauty and Ecotourism

• Serra Negra: a district of Bezerros known for its beautiful landscapes, pleasant climate and various ecotourism options. Ecological trails, bird watching, climbing, abseiling and bike rides. 
• Serra Negra Ecological Park: An environmental preservation area with rich biodiversity. Walks, picnics, trails and observation of the local fauna and flora.

4. Gastronomy

• Typical Food: The cuisine of Bezerros is rich and varied, with typical dishes from the Agreste region of Pernambuco. Typical dishes are Buchada de bode, carne de sol, galinha à cabidela, tapioca, pamonha and various traditional sweets.
• Feiras Livres and Mercados: Ideal places to sample the local cuisine and buy fresh, artisanal products.

How to get there by car

• Description: Bezerros is located around 100 kilometres from Recife. It can be reached via the BR-232 motorway.
• Travelling time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Recife.

6. Bonito PE

Bonito, located in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, is a tourist destination known mainly for its stunning waterfalls, natural landscapes and ecotourism activities. The city offers a variety of attractions that delight visitors, from outdoor adventures to discovering the local culture.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

Waterfalls

• Véu da Noiva Waterfall: One of Bonito’s most famous, with a beautiful waterfall that resembles a veil.
• Barra Azul Waterfall. A waterfall that offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful environment in which to relax.
• Pedra Redonda Waterfall: Known for its unique rock formations and refreshing waters.

Jeepney ride

• Description: Jeep tours are a popular way to explore Bonito’s waterfalls and natural areas.
• Activities: Guided tours that visit various waterfalls and viewpoints in the region.

Rapel and zip line

• Description: Bonito is an ideal destination for adventurers, offering activities such as abseiling down waterfalls and zip-lining.
• Activities: Abseiling down the waterfalls, zip-lining over the lush landscapes.

Ecological Trails

• Description: The region offers several ecological trails that allow you to explore the local flora and fauna.
• Activities: Hiking, bird watching, nature photography.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church: A beautiful historic church that is a religious and cultural landmark of the city.
• Fairs and Popular Festivals: Bonito celebrates several popular festivals, including June festivals and the feast of Our Lady of the Conception.

How to get there by car

• Description: Bonito is located around 130 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-232 and PE-103 motorways.
• Travelling Time: Approximately 2 hours by car from Recife.

7. Gravatá

Gravatá is a municipality located in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, known for its mild climate, mountainous landscapes, flowers, agriculture, and a rich offer of tourist activities. The town is a popular destination for both adventure tourism and cultural and gastronomic tourism.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

Serra do Maroto

• Description: A mountain area that offers breathtaking views of the region and several hiking trails.
• Activities: Ecological trails, observation of flora and fauna, and nature photography.

Serra Negra Ecological Park

• Description: A park with rich biodiversity and enchanting landscapes.
• Activities: Hiking, picnics and bird watching.

Waterfalls

• Tio and Palmeira Waterfalls: Beautiful waterfalls in the middle of nature, perfect for a refreshing swim and moments of leisure.
• Waterfall of Água Branca: Another waterfall option for those seeking contact with nature and tranquillity.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Matriz de Sant’Ana Church: One of the city’s main churches, with beautiful architecture and historical importance.
• Historic mansions: Gravatá has several old mansions that reflect the city’s history and culture.

3. Culture and Traditions

• Gravatá Winter Festival: An annual event that attracts visitors from all over the state, with shows, cultural performances and activities for the whole family.
• Craft Fairs: Gravatá is known for its local handicrafts, especially furniture and decorative pieces.

4. Rural Tourism

• Visit to Farms and Ranches: Gravatá is surrounded by farms and ranches that offer rural tourism experiences.
• Floriculture: The city is famous for its production of flowers and ornamental plants.

How to get there by car

• Description: Gravatá is located around 85 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-232 motorway.
• Travelling Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Recife.

7. Garanhuns

Garanhuns, known as the “Switzerland of Pernambuco” due to its mild climate and green landscapes, is a charming tourist destination in the Agreste region of Pernambuco. The city is famous for its Winter Festival, well-kept gardens and a rich cultural and historical offer.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

• Euclides Dourado Park: One of the city’s most traditional parks, with large green areas, walking trails and spaces for sports.
• Ruber van der Linden Park (Pau Pombo): A park that offers a rich biodiversity, ecological trails and a lake.
• Cristo do Magano: A viewpoint located at the highest point in Garanhuns, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Mundaú Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located on the outskirts of the city.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Flower Clock: One of Garanhuns’ main postcards, it is a functional clock surrounded by a beautiful flower garden.
• Matriz de Santo Antônio Church: One of the oldest and most important churches in the city, with beautiful architecture and historical significance.
• Alfredo Leite Cavalcanti Cultural Centre: A space dedicated to promoting local culture, with art galleries, a library and a theatre.

3. Culture and Traditions

• Garanhuns Winter Festival (FIG): One of the largest and most important cultural festivals in Brazil, held annually in July.
• Craft Fairs: Places where visitors can buy handicraft products typical of the region.

How to get there by car

• Description: Garanhuns is located around 230 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-232 and BR-423 motorways.
• Travelling time: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes by car from Recife.

8. Triunfo

Triunfo, located in the Sertão region of Pernambuco, is known for its mild climate, beautiful landscapes, cultural wealth and historical heritage. The city is a tourist destination that combines nature, history and culture.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

• Lago João Barbosa Sitônio: An artificial lake in the city centre, which is one of Triunfo’s main postcards.
• Pingas Waterfall: A waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for a day of leisure.
• Pico do Papagaio: The highest point in Pernambuco, with an incredible panoramic view of the region.
• Ecological Park: An environmental preservation area with trails and picnic areas.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Cine Teatro Guarany: One of the oldest cinemas in Brazil still in operation, it also serves as a theatre and space for cultural events.
• Museu do Cangaço: A museum dedicated to the history of the cangaço and the lives of Lampião and Maria Bonita.
• Casa Grande das Almas: A former sugar cane mill transformed into a museum and inn.

3. Culture and Traditions

• Carnaval dos Caretas: A unique carnival tradition in Triunfo, where revellers wear caretas masks.
• Triunfo Winter Festival: An annual event that celebrates culture and art, with concerts, theatre performances and exhibitions.
• Craft Fairs: Fairs where local artisans sell their products, including clay pieces, lace and embroidery.

4. Gastronomy

Typical food: Triunfo’s cuisine is rich and varied, with typical country dishes. Typical dishes include baião de dois, carne de sol, galinha à cabidela, buchada de bode, tapioca and regional sweets.

How to get there by car

• Description: Triunfo is located around 400 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-232 and PE-365 motorways.
• Travelling time: Approximately 6 hours by car from Recife.

9. Caruaru

Caruaru, known as the “Capital of Forró” and the “Little Princess of Agreste”, is one of the main tourist destinations in Pernambuco, especially famous for its São João festival, considered the biggest and best in the world. In addition to the June festivities, Caruaru offers a rich cultural, historical and gastronomic heritage.

1. Natural beauty and ecotourism

• Parque Natural Municipal Professor João Vasconcelos Sobrinho (Serra dos Cavalos): A nature reserve with rich biodiversity and several ecological trails.
• Severino Montenegro Environmental Park: An urban park ideal for leisure and outdoor activities.

2. Historical and Cultural Heritage

• Museu do Barro Espaço Zé Caboclo: A museum dedicated to the art of clay, one of Caruaru’s most important traditions.
• Museu Luiz Gonzaga: A museum that pays homage to the king of baião, Luiz Gonzaga, with personal objects and musical instruments.
• Alto do Moura: A neighbourhood famous for being home to a large community of artists and craftspeople, especially potters.
• Feira de Caruaru: One of the largest open-air fairs in Brazil, where you can find everything from food to handicrafts.

3. Culture and Traditions

• São João de Caruaru: The largest and most famous São João in the world, with a vast programme of shows, quadrilhas, typical food and themed decorations.
• Craft Fairs: Various fairs where local artisans sell their creations, including clay pieces, lace and embroidery.

4. Gastronomy

• Typical Food: Caruaru’s cuisine is rich and diverse, with typical dishes from Pernambuco’s Agreste region. Typical dishes include Baião de dois, carne de sol, galinha à cabidela, buchada de bode, tapioca, pamonha and regional sweets.

How to get there by car

• Description: Caruaru is located around 130 kilometres from Recife. Access is mainly via the BR-232 motorway.
• Travelling time: Approximately 2 hours by car from Recife.

Rural Tourism Route of Pernambuco