State of Rio Grande do Sul - Gaucho Culture, Wine Hills and Natural Wonders in Southern Brazil
Rio Grande do Sul is Brazil’s southernmost state - and one of its most culturally distinct. Travellers quickly realize during their Brazil vacation: this is not the Brazil of palm trees and tropical beaches, but of gauchos, vineyards, European architecture and alpine landscapes. The influence of immigrants from Germany, Italy and Portugal is still present in everyday life, cuisine and the cultural pride of the locals, who refer to themselves with pride as “Gaúchos”.
Location and Landscape Diversity
Bordering Santa Catarina to the north, Argentina to the west and Uruguay to the south, Rio Grande do Sul lies at a cultural crossroads. Its scenery ranges from rolling hills and green plains to coastal lagoons and the highlands of the Serra Gaúcha mountain range.
What makes the state unique:
• Four distinct seasons - including winters that can bring cold temperatures and even occasional snow
• The vast Pampa region in the south - traditional land of cattle ranching and gaucho culture
• The Serra Gaúcha in the northeast - famous for scenic wine routes, waterfalls, and strong German-Italian heritage
Serra Gaúcha - Culture, Wine & Alpine Flair
The Serra Gaúcha is one of the most attractive regions for tourism in southern Brazil. Towns like Gramado, Canela, Bento Gonçalves, and Nova Petrópolis resemble European villages, with architecture and cuisine strongly influenced by 19th-century German and Italian settlers.
Top highlights:
• Gramado & Canela - Picturesque towns with wooden houses, chocolate shops, lakes, waterfalls and theme parks
• Bento Gonçalves & Vale dos Vinhedos - The heart of Brazilian wine production, with vineyards, sparkling wines and wine tours
• Nova Petrópolis - A flower-filled town known for German folk traditions and landscaped gardens
Best time to visit: The Brazilian winter (June to August), when Gramado hosts its charming “Festival de Inverno”.
Porto Alegre - A Capital of Culture and Nature
Porto Alegre, the state capital, sits on the banks of Lake Guaíba and offers a lively cultural scene and green urban spaces. Often overlooked, the city is a great starting point for trips to the mountains or the coast.
Don’t miss:
• Museu Iberê Camargo - A modern art museum with lakeside views
• Parque Farroupilha - A lush city park with local markets
• Mercado Público - Traditional market hall for regional food and crafts
• Vibrant music scene and bohemian cafés popular with local artists and writer
Gaucho Traditions & Cuisine
The people of Rio Grande do Sul take great pride in their Gaucho heritage. The Gaucho - Brazil’s version of the cowboy - stands for independence, dignity and connection to the land. In rural areas, it's common to see people on horseback, wearing leather boots, and sharing chimarrão (green mate tea) in traditional gourds.
Local specialties:
• Churrasco - Skewered grilled meats, the original style of Brazilian barbecue
• Chimarrão - Bitter green mate tea, sipped from a shared gourd, symbolising hospitality
• Cheeses, sausages, and wines - Especially in regions with strong German and Italian roots
Nature and Adventure Tourism
Rio Grande do Sul surprises with its many outdoor attractions - from deep canyons to bird-filled lagoons:
• Aparados da Serra National Park - Home to the breathtaking Itaimbezinho and Fortaleza canyons with scenic trails
• Lagoa dos Patos - One of South America’s largest lagoons, ideal for birdwatching
• Rota das Cascatas e Cânions - A scenic route with waterfalls, horseback riding, and eco-lodges
Perfect for hikers, nature photographers, and travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path Brazil.
Rio Grande do Sul - A Different Side of Brazil
Rio Grande do Sul is a state for gourmets, culture seekers, and nature lovers. If you’re searching for an alternative Brazil - influenced by Europe, rich in traditions, and full of character - this is the place. From wine tasting to canyon hiking, from gaucho rituals to gourmet cuisine, this region offers a refreshing diversity.
At Aventura do Brasil, we are happy to help integrate southern Brazil into your custom Brazil trip - whether combined with Santa Catarina or as a contrast to tropical destinations like the Pantanal or Bahia.
Sources: https://guia.melhoresdestinos.com.br/gramado-canela.html, https://guia.melhoresdestinos.com.br/porto-alegre.html, https://www.melhoresdestinos.com.br/serra-gaucha.html