Araras City Guide

Good range of Brazilian restaurants featuring dishes like feijoada and churrasco. Some international choices exist, including Japanese cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing but may require asking. Late-night food options mostly on weekends.

Nightlife is low-key with local bars and casual restaurants open late. Not a party city but ok for relaxed evenings.

Good local coffee shops with typical Brazilian coffee. Specialty coffee shops less common than in major cities.

Tipping is common. Restaurants often include a 10% service charge which is optional but expected. Taxi drivers appreciate rounding up.

Buy SIM cards at official Vivo, Claro, or TIM stores in shopping centers or downtown. Passport needed for registration. eSIMs are becoming more common depending on provider.

Central areas are generally clean with regular waste collection and some recycling programs.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies may have late hours, few late-night food or medical options.

Supermarkets like Savegnago, Carrefour Express, and Pão de Açúcar offer a mix of local and some international products. Fresh produce is available at local markets. Shops mostly open 8 AM–9 PM; smaller stores may close Sundays.

Most places accept credit or debit cards. Still, carry some cash for small vendors and street markets that might not take cards.

ATMs are common at banks like Banco do Brasil, Itaú, Bradesco, and Caixa Econômica Federal, as well as some supermarkets. International card fees may apply.

Local schools teach in Portuguese. For international schooling, families often look to Campinas or São Paulo, which are a drive away.

Very small community with limited networking. More general local social groups exist.

Good access to green spaces like Parque Ecológico and Lago Municipal for walking and relaxation.

Running routes in parks like Parque Ecológico and Lago Municipal are safe and scenic, with good air quality.

Several gyms offering standard fitness options.

Some tennis courts available at private clubs and sports complexes.

Padel courts are less common but can be found in some sports clubs.

Yoga studios and wellness centers offer various classes. Some instructors may speak English.

Dojo and classes available for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Judo. English-speaking instructors not guaranteed.

No skiing in the region or country.

Limited water sports; local lakes may offer kayak or paddleboard rentals but rare and not a main activity.

No surfing nearby; closest surf spots are on the São Paulo coast, a long drive away.

No diving or snorkeling near Araras; these are coastal activities in Brazil.

Public and private hospitals and clinics are available. The main public hospital is Hospital São Luiz. Private clinics may offer better care but English is limited. Pharmacies are widespread with basic advice offered.

Tap water is treated and generally safe by local standards, but visitors may prefer bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Parks like Parque Ecológico and Lago Municipal offer playgrounds and green spaces. Family-friendly restaurants exist but kid-specific cafés are rare. Baby supplies are easy to find locally.

Generally safe but more conservative than big cities. Few overt LGBTQ+ venues or events.

Pet-friendly with some parks allowing dogs on leash. Veterinary and pet supply stores available. Fewer pet-friendly places than big cities.