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DestinationsSouth AmericaBrazilParaíba
Paraíba - Travel destination image
Paraíba - Travel destination image
Paraíba - Travel destination image
Paraíba - Travel destination image

About Paraíba

Paraíba, nestled in Brazil's sun-drenched Northeast, is a captivating blend of colonial history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural contrasts. The state is famously home to Ponta do Seixas, the easternmost point of the Americas, where you can be the first in the continent to greet the sunrise. Its capital, João Pessoa, is known as 'the city where the sun rises first' and enchants visitors with its well-preserved historic center, stunning art deco architecture, and lush parks like the Jardim Botânico. The coastline offers diverse beaches, from the urban shores of Tambaú to the wild dunes of Coqueirinho. Inland, the unique landscape of Cariri Paraibano features dramatic rock formations and a semi-arid climate, while the city of Campina Grande hosts one of the world's largest Saint John's Festivals (São João), a massive celebration of forró music, dance, and traditional food. Paraíba's rich cultural tapestry is woven from indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences, evident in its handicrafts, particularly renascença lace, and its delicious cuisine featuring dishes like rubacão (a rice and bean mix) and rapadura (sugarcane candy).

Things to do in Paraíba

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Paramaribo City Tour

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
4.7 (18)
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Full-Day Brownsberg Nature Park Tour

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
4.3 (10)
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Bigi Pan Tourist Eco Lodge

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
4.0 (1)
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Suriname Paramaribo Airport (PBM) to Paramaribo - Round-Trip Private Transfer

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Paramaribo hotel to Suriname Paramaribo Airport(PBM) -Departure Private Transfer

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/11/81/8e/3d.jpg

Suriname Paramaribo Airport (PBM) to Paramaribo hotel - Arrival Private Transfer

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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‘Plantaadje’ Wetland Bicycle Tour

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Paramaribo Heritage and Landmarks Private Guided Walking Tour

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Private Transfer from Suriname Paramaribo Airport (PBM) to Paramaribo hotel

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/12/05/72/a1.jpg

Paramaribo Airport (PBM) to Paramaribo - Arrival Private Transfer

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/12/05/72/a1.jpg

Paramaribo to Paramaribo Airport PBM - Departure Private Transfer

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/12/05/72/a1.jpg

Paramaribo Airport PBM to Paramaribo - RoundTrip Private Transfer

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Sunset and Dolphin Tour Suriname

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Peperpot Bike tour

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Sunday Market Tour

Paramaribo, Suriname
 
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Travel Tips for Paraíba

Getting Around

In cities, buses are the primary public transport; routes can be complex for non-locals. Taxis are widely available and should be metered or agreed upon in advance. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and 99 are operational in major cities. For exploring the coast and interior, renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, but be prepared for variable road conditions outside main highways. Intercity buses are comfortable and connect major towns. For a unique local experience in João Pessoa, the 'Trilha do Seixas' is a popular coastal walking/biking path.

Best Time To Visit

June to September is ideal. This is the dry season with less rainfall, pleasant temperatures, and includes the famous São João festivals in June, particularly the massive celebration in Campina Grande. The period from September to November also offers good weather before the rainy season starts. The coastal heat is tempered by breezes year-round, but the interior (Cariri) can be very hot, especially from October to January.

Local Customs

Paraíbans are known for their warm, friendly hospitality. Greetings are important; a handshake or, among friends, a kiss on the cheek is common. Dress is generally casual but modest when visiting churches or small towns. Beachwear is for the beach only. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% service charge (serviço) is often included on the bill; you can add more for excellent service. Forró music and dance are central to social life, especially during the June festivals. Respect for elders is emphasized.

Safety Information

Exercise normal precautions. In urban areas like João Pessoa and Campina Grande, be vigilant against petty theft, especially on beaches, in crowded markets, and on public transport. Avoid displaying valuables. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps (like Uber) at night. Isolated areas, particularly certain favelas (shantytowns), should be avoided. Scams targeting tourists are not widespread but be cautious with unofficial tour guides. Rural areas are generally safe. Always keep a copy of your passport separate from the original.

Health Information

Medical facilities in João Pessoa and Campina Grande are adequate for most needs, with both public (SUS) and private hospitals. Smaller towns may have limited services. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel health insurance. Recommended routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, flu) should be up to date. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are advised due to potential contaminated food/water. Yellow Fever vaccination is not required for entry but may be recommended if traveling to rural areas; consult a travel clinic. Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are present; use insect repellent and wear long sleeves/pants. Drink only bottled or purified water. The sun is intense; use high-SPF sunscreen.

Languages Spoken

Portuguese

Quick Facts

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)
R$

Timezone

America/Fortaleza -03:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+55

Electricity

Type N; 127V/220V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

4.1 million

Area

56469 km²

Government

State government within the Federative Republic of Brazil, with an elected Governor and Legislative Assembly.

ISO Code

PB

Frequently Asked Questions