Port Guide | Brazil | Worth a Wander
Rio Grande
David Nakamura | Editor
Published on 2025-03-26
You've arrived in Rio Grande, Brazil-a city most tourists breeze right past as they chase samba-fueled cliches farther north. Lucky you, intrepid traveler, you've stopped where Brazil's maritime muscle flexes and salt air mingles cheerfully with the smell of grilled seafood and diesel. Founded by Portuguese sailors who promptly lost interest and sailed north towards flashier shores (typical), Rio Grande wears its working-class swagger proudly. Yes, it's gritty docks and weathered colonial buildings rather than postcard-perfect beaches packed with sunburned tourists-but therein lies its charm. Wander through the historic center's cheerfully faded architecture, elbow your way into the Mercado Municipal for spectacularly fresh fish tacos and a cold local beer, then rent a car and follow any dusty road heading toward the coast, where beach towns like Cassino promise sunny stretches of sand, quirky beach bars, and that irresistible, laid-back Brazilian charm you've heard rumors about. Welcome ashore-adventure (and a dose of unfiltered authenticity) awaits!
Brazil has 11 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Rio Grande is a significant port city known for its shipping industry and proximity to beautiful coastal areas. Recommended activities include visiting the historic center, local seafood markets, and nearby beaches.
Where do cruise ships dock in Rio Grande?
Port Name Rio Grande
Country Brazil
Region South America
Ship Terminal Port of Rio Grande
Port Type dedicated port
Accessibility The port is located approximately 2 kilometers from the city center, accessible via local taxis and shuttle services.
What's the weather like in Rio Grande?
Best Season to Visit Summer (December to February)
Climate Tropical humid climate with warm temperatures year-round, but more humid in summer.
Weather Notes Summer season can bring occasional thunderstorms; rain is possible but generally short-lived.
Temperature Range 70F to 85F (21C to 29C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 54F
Average Temp 70F
What do I need to know about Rio Grande?
Language Portuguese
Currency Brazilian Real (BRL)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 211,000
Timezone UTC-3
How do I get around Rio Grande?
Taxis, local buses, and ride-sharing services are available for transit to and from the port.
What are The Best Things to do in Rio Grande?
Discover what you should do while you're in Rio Grande.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Trekking to Mount Olivia
N/A
An adventurous hike offering breathtaking panoramic views exclusive to this region.
Distance from Terminal: 4.5 miles
Kayaking Beagle Channel
N/A
Paddle along this iconic waterway, spotting wildlife against stunning backdrops.
Distance from Terminal: 130 miles
Fishing Sea Trout
Rio Grande River
World-renowned fly-fishing activity for huge sea trout.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Surfing at Cabo Domingo
N/A
Surf Patagonia's rugged beaches, a one-of-a-kind surfing spot.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Horseback Riding through Patagonian Steppe
N/A
Ride horses through uniquely rugged Patagonian landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Overnight Trips
Exploring Karukinka Natural Park
N/A
Visit this remote park for untouched Patagonian wildlife and pristine landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 120 miles
Pinguino Rey Reserve Tour
Bahia Inutil
One of the few places in the world to closely view the King Penguin community.
Distance from Terminal: 50 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Shearing Sheep at Estancia Maria Behety
Ruta Y-85
Hands-on sheep herding activity unique to South America's southern ranch culture.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Sheep barbecue at local estancia
N/A
Participate in an authentic Patagonian barbecue experience.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Local Gaucho Encounter
Local Estancia
Interact with Patagonian cowboys experiencing their culture firsthand.
Distance from Terminal: 13.5 miles
Attend Fuegian Gaucho Rodeo
Local Rodeo Grounds
Experience local gauchos displaying cattle roping skills in a traditional event.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Ruins of Estancia San Jose
N/A
Historical remains of early Patagonian settlements unique to the region.
Distance from Terminal: 11 miles
Cultural Visit to Selk'nam Museum
Calle Lasserre 109
Unique museum presenting the extinct indigenous peoples of Tierra del Fuego.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Visit Monumento al Ovejero
Av. San Martin
A unique local monument dedicated to shepherd culture.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Historic Mission Salesiana Visit
Ruta N 3
Explore Jesuit mission historical sites significant to local history.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Visit the Antarctic Shackleton Replica Museum
N/A
A museum dedicated to authentic artifacts from Antarctic exploration.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
A Little Extra
Taste Local Calafate Beer
Local Brewery
Taste unique local beer flavored with the Calafate berry.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Brazil Regional Tip
Offering and accepting hospitality warmly; declining invitations repeatedly might be seen as impolite. If invited to a Brazilian home, accepting at least a small token of hospitality is highly appreciated and seen as a sign of respect.