Sertão of Pernambuco

Sertão of Pernambuco: History, Culture and Natural Beauty

The Sertão of Pernambuco is one of the great cultural and historical treasures of Brazil.

Known for its rich tradition, unique landscapes and emblematic characters such as Lampião and Cangaço, the region is home to cities such as Petrolina, Serra Talhada, Triunfo, Exu and Floresta, which offer visitors authentic and unforgettable experiences.

The Sertão also surprises with places of different climates, such as the city of Triunfo, located at an altitude of 1,004 metres, the highest in the State.

With its mild climate, Triunfo hosts annual cultural events such as the Students Festival and the Film Festival, held in the Cine Theatro Guarany, a listed building.

Pernambuco’s emblematic attractions

  • Caruaru Fair – the largest open-air fairfair in the world, recognised by IPHAN as a Brazilian Intangible Heritage..
  • Nova Jerusalem Theatre – located in Brejo da Madre de Deus, it is the largest open-air theatre in the world.
  • Serra do Catimbau National Park – the second largest area of archaeological sites in Brazil, with rock formations, valleys and rock art.
  • Serra Negra – in Bezerros, with its cold climate and ecological reserve, temperatures can reach 9°C.
  • São Francisco Valley – a highlight in wine tourism with several wineries.

Main tourist attractions in the Sertão of Pernambuco

1. Petrolina

  • Location: On the banks of the São Francisco River
  • Local attractions: Wine cellars, Rodeadouro Island, Petrolina Cathedral
  • Events Wine Festival

2. Serra Talhada

  • Known as: Capital of Xaxado
  • Sights: Cangaço Museum, Sítio Passagem das Pedras, Serra Grande
  • Events: September Festival

3. Triumph

  • Mild climate and mountainous landscapes of the Serra da Baixa Verde
  • Local attractions: Cable car, Cangaço Museum, Guarany Cinema Theatre
  • Events: Winter Festival

4. The Forest

  • Historical importance: Strong link with the Cangaço
  • Attractions: Barra do Juá dam, Mother Church, trails in the Caatinga
  • Events: June festivals, religious events

5. Exu

  • Native Town: Luiz Gonzaga
  • Sights: Gonzagão Museum, Aza Branca Park
  • Events: Viva Gonzagão Festival (December)

Tourist activities in the Sertão

Ecotourism

  • Catimbau National Park: Archaeology, trails and natural formations
  • Serra do Pajeú: Trails, canyons, caves in the caatinga

Cultural tourism

  • Cangaço Route: Historical sites associated with Lampião
  • Popular Festivals: June festivals with quadrilhas and typical food

Sertanejo Cuisine

  • Baião de Dois – Rice with beans and dried meat
  • Carne de Sol – served with manioc and green beans
  • Cheese and sweets – curd cheese, dulce de leche, guava pudding
Sertão of Pernambuco

Triunfo: The Oasis of the Sertão in Brazil

Triunfo: Explore the beauty and history of Pernambuco’s hinterland Triunfo, located in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, is known as the “Oasis of the Sertão” due to its pleasant climate, its mountainous landscapes and its rich cultural heritage. This charming city is a destination that combines natural beauty and history, […]

Sertão of Pernambuco

Petrolina: Exploring Its Wine and Tourism

Discover Petrolina: The jewel of Pernambuco’s Sertão, land of wine and exuberant fruits Petrolina is an important municipality located in the interior of the State of Pernambuco in Northeastern Brazil. Situated on the banks of the São Francisco River, the city has a dynamic economy, a strong agricultural sector and […]