10 Amazing Things to Do Year-Round in Palmas Brazil for Nature Beaches and Hidden Adventure

Key Takeaways:

• Palmas is Brazil’s youngest capital city, known for its incredible access to nature, freshwater beaches, and eco-adventures.

• The city blends urban comforts with wild escapes, offering unforgettable year-round experiences.

• From waterfalls and dunes to cultural festivals, Palmas is perfect for nature lovers, families, and curious explorers.

Palmas, the capital of the state of Tocantins, is a hidden gem in Brazil’s north-central region. Founded in 1989, it’s the youngest capital city in the country — and that fresh energy shows in its layout, vibe, and opportunities for exploration. Surrounded by cerrado savanna, rivers, and mountains, Palmas is a paradise for travelers who love the outdoors but don’t want to sacrifice modern comforts. It’s also home to the stunning Ilha do Bananal and Jalapão State Park, two of Brazil’s most impressive natural wonders. With warm weather year-round, friendly locals, and wide-open skies, Palmas is the kind of place that invites slow exploration and big adventure.

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Canyons and Waterfalls of Jalapão State Park

2. Relax at Praia da Graciosa (Graciosa Beach)

3. Hike Morro da Cruz for Sunset Views

4. Visit Cesamar Park for Wildlife and Walking Trails

5. Discover Indigenous Culture at Memorial Coluna Prestes

6. Take a Boat Tour on Ilha do Canela

7. Experience Palmas’ Traditional June Festivals (Festas Juninas)

8. Swim at Taquaruçu Waterfalls and Zipline Through the Trees

9. Stroll the Sunset Boulevard and Try Local Street Food

10. Visit the Feira do Bosque Night Market on Sundays

1. Explore the Canyons and Waterfalls of Jalapão State Park

Just a few hours from Palmas, Jalapão State Park is one of Brazil’s most breathtaking and otherworldly regions. With golden sand dunes, turquoise springs, dramatic canyons, and powerful waterfalls, it’s the ultimate playground for eco-tourism and adventure seekers. Visitors can swim in crystal-clear fervedouros (natural bubbling springs), hike orange dunes at sunset, or paddle through wild rivers. It’s remote, raw, and like nothing else in the country.

Most people book guided multi-day trips from Palmas to explore Jalapão safely, as road conditions and distances can be challenging. Tours usually include meals, rustic lodges, and 4×4 transport across the region. From the Cachoeira da Formiga waterfall to the Sussuapara Canyon, each stop offers a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. If you crave wild beauty, Jalapão is the highlight of any Palmas itinerary.

2. Relax at Praia da Graciosa (Graciosa Beach)

Unlike ocean cities, Palmas offers a rare twist — freshwater beaches along the massive Tocantins River. Praia da Graciosa is the city’s most popular riverside beach, offering soft sand, calm water, food stalls, and stunning sunset views. Locals come here year-round to relax, swim, and sip coconut water under shady umbrellas. The vibe is casual and welcoming, especially on weekends and holidays.

There are kayaks and paddleboards available for rent, plus regular events like open-air concerts and food truck festivals. The water is warm and safe for kids, and lifeguards are usually on duty. It’s a great place to feel the community energy of Palmas and unwind without needing to leave the city limits. Whether you stay for an hour or a whole afternoon, Graciosa Beach is a must.

3. Hike Morro da Cruz for Sunset Views

For one of the best panoramic views of Palmas, make the short hike up Morro da Cruz, a hill just on the edge of the city with sweeping vistas over the lake, skyline, and surrounding forest. It’s a relatively easy trek — about 30 minutes each way — but the reward is a stunning 360-degree viewpoint that’s especially magical at golden hour. Locals often gather here for meditation, photos, or just to breathe in the wide-open air.

There’s a large cross at the summit, benches for sitting, and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the breeze. Go in the late afternoon, bring water and bug spray, and watch the sky turn from orange to deep purple. If you want a peaceful moment to take in Palmas from above, this is the spot. The hike is free and accessible most of the year.

4. Visit Cesamar Park for Wildlife and Walking Trails

Parque Cesamar is the city’s central park and one of the most popular spots for locals to exercise, picnic, or enjoy nature without leaving town. It features walking and biking trails around a scenic lake, fitness stations, playgrounds, and native cerrado vegetation with labeled signs. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most active times, with joggers, yoga groups, and families filling the trails.

The park is home to capybaras, birds, and small reptiles — making it a great spot for nature watching too. Entry is free, and the environment feels safe, clean, and well-maintained year-round. Whether you want to run a few laps, read a book under a tree, or simply people-watch, Cesamar Park is a relaxing and refreshing urban escape.

5. Discover Indigenous Culture at Memorial Coluna Prestes

Located in the heart of Palmas, the Memorial Coluna Prestes is a striking cultural and architectural site designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. The building pays tribute to the Coluna Prestes movement — a revolutionary march in the 1920s that shaped Brazil’s modern political history — while also showcasing regional art and Indigenous heritage. It’s one of the city’s most unique landmarks, inside and out.

Visitors can explore exhibits on Tocantins’ cultural development, native tribes, and early settlement history. Artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations bring local stories to life in an engaging way. Outside, the curved white facade contrasts beautifully with the blue sky, making it a popular photo spot. This is a quick but meaningful stop for anyone interested in Brazil’s deeper cultural fabric.

6. Take a Boat Tour on Ilha do Canela

Just a short boat ride from the city, Ilha do Canela is a peaceful island in the Tocantins River where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s especially popular on weekends when locals gather for beachside grilling, volleyball, and fresh fish meals by the water. The water here is calm and shallow, making it ideal for families and groups.

You can book a boat tour from Praia da Graciosa or nearby docks — many of which offer half-day or sunset options with snacks and music included. The island doesn’t have much infrastructure, which adds to its wild charm. Bring your own towels, water, and sunscreen, and spend a lazy afternoon unplugged. It’s a hidden favorite that locals love for good reason.

7. Experience Palmas’ Traditional June Festivals (Festas Juninas)

Every June, Palmas lights up with Festas Juninas, a nationwide celebration of rural Brazilian culture filled with food, music, dance, and colorful costumes. Locals gather in community squares to enjoy quadrilha folk dances, bonfires, and regional dishes like pamonha, canjica, and quentão. The vibe is joyful, family-friendly, and deeply rooted in Brazilian tradition.

In Palmas, these festivals are especially vibrant due to the strong community spirit and warm evenings perfect for outdoor celebration. Many neighborhoods host their own local events, but larger public festivals are held downtown and in parks like Cesamar. Whether you’re dancing in straw hats or just sampling the sweets, Festa Junina is a must-see if you visit in early winter.

8. Swim at Taquaruçu Waterfalls and Zipline Through the Trees

About 30 minutes from Palmas lies the charming village of Taquaruçu, a cool-climate escape in the mountains known for its eco-tourism activities and waterfalls. There are over 80 waterfalls in the surrounding area, but Cachoeira do Roncador and Cachoeira da Arara are among the most accessible and photogenic. Natural swimming pools, red-rock cliffs, and forest trails make it a fantastic escape from city heat.

If you’re feeling bold, try the zipline adventure, which stretches over lush canopies and rivers for an adrenaline-pumping view from above. Many local lodges and eco-parks offer guided hikes, rappelling, and ATV tours. Taquaruçu is also home to eco-lodges and artisan markets, making it a great place for an overnight stay. It’s where nature, adrenaline, and tranquility collide.

9. Stroll the Sunset Boulevard and Try Local Street Food

Sunset Boulevard, located along the lakefront near Graciosa Beach, comes alive in the late afternoon with locals gathering to walk, bike, snack, and catch the famously colorful Palmas sunset. Food trucks and street vendors line the promenade offering regional bites like grilled cheese skewers, tapioca, fresh juices, and açai bowls. The casual, open-air vibe is ideal for winding down after a day of exploring.

Musicians often perform live samba or forró music, adding to the festive atmosphere as the sun dips behind the lake. There are benches, green spaces, and safe areas for kids to run around while adults soak up the scenery. It’s also a great place to strike up a conversation with locals and get tips on what to do next. Sunset Boulevard is Palmas at its most relaxed and social.

10. Visit the Feira do Bosque Night Market on Sundays

Held every Sunday evening, the Feira do Bosque is Palmas’ most beloved artisan and food market. Dozens of stalls pop up selling handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, street food, and desserts under twinkling lights and trees. It’s a favorite for families, couples, and travelers who want to enjoy local flavors and shop small.

The market also features live music, capoeira demonstrations, and occasional theater performances. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs while mingling with the community. Be sure to try local delicacies like bolo de macaxeira (cassava cake) or pastel de feira. A visit to Palmas wouldn’t be complete without an evening stroll through this vibrant weekly event.

What to Do If You Have Kids?

Palmas is a fantastic destination for families, with lots of outdoor attractions that are both fun and safe for kids. Start with Cesamar Park or Praia da Graciosa, where you’ll find calm swimming areas, shaded playgrounds, and room to run around. For a more adventurous day, take a family-friendly tour to Taquaruçu waterfalls or hop on a boat to Ilha do Canela for sandcastle building and freshwater splashing. Festivals like Festa Junina also include kid-specific games, costumes, and treats. Just pack sunscreen, snacks, and bug spray — and you’re all set for a memorable trip with the little ones.

Where Can I Find Free Events in Palmas Brazil Taking Place This Weekend?

To discover free festivals, cultural shows, food markets, and family-friendly activities happening in Palmas this weekend, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. Our AI-powered platform curates up-to-date event listings tailored to your interests and location, making it easier than ever to enjoy the city without spending a dime. Whether you’re into live music, artisan markets, open-air movies, or dance classes in the park, Planmyweekend.ai helps you find what’s happening — no guesswork needed. It’s your shortcut to exploring Palmas like a local.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Palmas

Palmas might not be on every traveler’s radar, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. With access to waterfalls, rivers, beaches, and cultural experiences all in one place, it offers a rare mix of nature and city living. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline in Jalapão or lounging on Graciosa Beach, every corner of Palmas invites you to slow down and connect — with nature, with people, and with yourself. It’s a city of open skies, warm nights, and unexpected treasures waiting to be discovered.