Summary
The states of Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, and Parana lie in the sub-tropical area of southern Brazil, where snow sometimes falls on the higher elevations.
Europeans from Poland, Italy, and Germany found this climate agreeable and settled here, consequently bringing their customs, culinary traditions, and languages. As a result, many Brazilians from this region often have blond hair and blue eyes.
Parana
The state of Parana offers stunning landscapes characterized by water, hills, and splendid beaches, along with breathtaking waterfalls.
- Iguazu Falls, or Foz do Iguaçu, are an international attraction. The Brazilian side provides a better overview of the cataracts and is somewhat more affordable, though rougher, than the Argentine side.
- Curitiba is a charming and well-ordered city, featuring a historical cobblestoned section known as Largo da Ordem.
- From Curitiba, travelers can take the train down the steep mountain to the port of Paranaguá. Ilha do Mel, situated in the bay of Paranaguá, boasts beautiful beaches, scenic walks, and is a favorite summer destination.
Rio Grande do Sul
The southernmost state of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, shares a cattle ranching tradition along with the gaucho culture, with neighboring Argentina and Uruguay. Visitors might explore cattle ranches, indulge in churrasco (barbecue), and sip chimarrão, a strong herbal tea. Additionally, guests can practice their Italian in the mountain villages, where many residents converse in the language.
The capital, Porto Alegre, serves as an excellent base for exploring the state’s attractions:
- The scenic Serra Gaúcha mountains, ideal for hiking, trekking, and biking enthusiasts.
- Parque Estadual de Caracol features a magnificent waterfall that is easily accessible. Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra offers stunning sights in Itaimbézinho’s narrow canyon and the Canyon da Fortaleza, while also preserving one of the last forests of Auracária trees.
- History buffs will appreciate the Jesuit missions, particularly São Miguel das Missões, located in the western part of the state.
Santa Catarina
Santa Catarina boasts some of the finest beaches in Brazil and is a highly sought-after vacation destination for locals. It is known for its affluent amenities and is often referred to as the most “European” of Brazilian states.
- The capital, Florianopolis, is partly situated on the mainland and partly on Ilha de Santa Catarina, famous for its remarkable beaches, particularly Joaquina beach, which hosts thrilling surfing championships.
- Joinville hosts a variety of festivals, including Fenachopp, an Octoberfest that celebrates the city’s Germanic heritage, Festa das Flores honoring the locally grown flowers, and a large Festival de Dança, where thousands of dancers participate in Blumenau. Additionally, Pomerode maintains its German traditions and language, offering visitors a taste of the Old Country.
- The coastal resort of Balneário Camboriú is a popular venue for conventions and large group events.
