Things to Do in Paulo Afonso

A compact central plaza with a large open Bible monument, benches and a small playground. Popular with locals for evening hangs and street food.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Come around 17:00 when the heat drops and vendors sell grilled corn and tapioca. Free wi-fi from the city hall nearby.

A waterfront leisure area on an island in the São Francisco River, with walking paths, picnic spots and a small swimming area. The entry fee is low (5 reais), and you can bring your own food.

🕐 Tue-Sun 08:00-17:00

💡 Skip the paid boat tours – the walking trail around the island is free after entry. Go on a weekday to have the place nearly to yourself.

Small but packed museum on local history, culture and the construction of the Paulo Afonso hydroelectric complex. Exhibits include tools, photographs and artefacts from the region's indigenous people and early settlers.

🕐 Tue-Sat 08:00-12:00, 14:00-17:00; Sun 09:00-13:00

💡 It's often closed on Mondays – call ahead to confirm. Ask the staff about the old dam film; it's worth 15 minutes.

A dramatic series of waterfalls on the São Francisco River, reachable by walking trails. The main viewpoint is free; you get good views without paying for the guided tour.

🕐 24 hours, but best daylight hours

💡 Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. The free path near the Belvedere gives you a solid view of the falls.

A public lookout point built on a rocky bluff above the river. Views stretch over the canyon and the power plant. Benches and shade trees make it a good rest spot.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Bring water and a hat – no shade at the railing. Best light is late afternoon for photos.