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Get InspiredSouth AmericaBrazilRio Grande Do SulSanta Maria

Santa Maria

Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
City·Lively, Educational, Community Focused
Santa Maria
Photo by Gerson Neves from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Maria Aline Pacheco from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Chico Becker from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Gerson Neves from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Renato Albano Petersen FIlho from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Gerson Neves from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Maria Aline Pacheco from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Chico Becker from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Gerson Neves from Google Places
Santa Maria
Photo by Renato Albano Petersen FIlho from Google Places

Santa Maria, located in the heart of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, is a bustling city known for its strong educational presence, thanks to the Federal University of Santa Maria and the Franciscan University. With a population of over 283,000, it is the fifth largest municipality in the state. The city is a cultural and educational hub, attracting students and visitors alike. Despite its modern amenities, Santa Maria retains a rich historical significance, making it a unique blend of past and present. Known as the 'heart of Rio Grande', it offers a vibrant community atmosphere, ideal for students and cultural enthusiasts.

Santa Maria, located in the heart of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, is a bustling city known for its strong educational presence, thanks to the Federal University of Santa Maria and the Franciscan University. With a population of over 283,000, it is the fifth largest municipality in the state. The city is a cultural and educational hub, attracting students and visitors alike. Despite its modern amenities, Santa Maria retains a rich historical significance, making it a unique blend of past and present. Known as the 'heart of Rio Grande', it offers a vibrant community atmosphere, ideal for students and cultural enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Home to the Federal University of Santa Maria.

  • Cultural and educational hub in Rio Grande do Sul.

  • Central location in the state.

  • Vibrant student community.

  • Historical significance and modern amenities.

Before you go: Santa Maria essentials

  • Central location in Rio Grande do Sul, ideal for exploring the state.

  • Strong educational and cultural presence.

  • Vibrant student life with numerous events and activities.

Getting Around

Santa Maria is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore the city.

Local Cuisine

Try local Brazilian dishes at various eateries around the city.

Best For

Students and cultural enthusiasts.

Currency

BRL R$

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Population

283,677

University Visits

Explore the campuses of the Federal University of Santa Maria for a taste of local academic life.

Safety

Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Languages Spoken

Portuguese

Occasion Tags

Students, Cultural Visits, Education

Best time to visit Santa Maria

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring offers mild weather, perfect for exploring the city's parks and cultural sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be hot, but it's a great time for outdoor festivals and events.

Best Season

Fall

Fall is pleasant with fewer tourists, ideal for visiting museums and universities.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time for indoor activities and cultural exploration.

Add dates for experiences

Location

Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Things to do in Santa Maria

Catamaran Half Day - Beautiful day on the Atlantic Ocean
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Experience on Sal Island with native and certified guide (including sharks)

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Horse Riding in Sal Island - Cabo Verde
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Horse Riding in Sal Island - Cabo Verde

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Sailing yacht half day- with Cape Verde Sailing
From $71

Sailing yacht half day- with Cape Verde Sailing

4.7(159 reviews)
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Santa Maria, Sal: All inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay
From $51

Santa Maria, Sal: All inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay

4.8(444 reviews)
Duration: 4h
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Kite Surf Lessons on Sal Island
From $158

Kite Surf Lessons on Sal Island

4.8(17 reviews)
Duration: 2h
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Jet Ski Adventure on Sal Island - Cape Verde
From $70

Jet Ski Adventure on Sal Island - Cape Verde

4.3(99 reviews)
Duration: 1h
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Buggy Tour Sal Island
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Buggy Tour Sal Island

4.9(37 reviews)
Duration: 2h
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