Exploring Jaru: Top Places to Visit in Brazil’s Rondônia Region

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Jaru and the top places to visit in Brazil’s Rondônia region, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the area’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and hidden gems.

Nestled in the heart of Brazil’s Rondônia state, Jaru may not be a household name—but that’s precisely its charm. This unassuming municipality rewards intrepid travellers with a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and warm local culture. If you’re looking to veer off the well-trodden tourist path in Brazil, Jaru is an under-the-radar gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary.

1. Parque Natural Municipal de Jaru

Jaru‘s crown jewel is undoubtedly the Parque Natural Municipal de Jaru, a sprawling nature reserve that showcases the region’s lush biodiversity. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the park’s well-marked trails, which wind through dense forests teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful birds, playful monkeys, and—if you’re lucky—even the elusive jaguar.

Top hiking routes in the park include:

• Trilha do Ouro (Gold Trail): A 5-kilometer path along an old gold mining route, showcasing Jaru’s history.

• Caminho da Luz (Path of Light): A scenic 3-kilometer trail to a stunning viewpoint.

• Rota das Cachoeiras (Waterfall Route): An 8-kilometer challenging trail with picturesque waterfalls.

2. Museu Histórico de Jaru

To dive deeper into Jaru‘s rich history, head to the Museu Histórico de Jaru (Jaru Historical Museum). This small but well-curated museum offers a fascinating look at the region’s past, from its indigenous roots to its role in Brazil’s rubber boom. Don’t miss the exhibit on the Integrated Project of Colonization Father Adolpho Rohl, which brought settlers from southern Brazil to Jaru in the 1970s.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.

3. Mercado Municipal de Jaru

For a taste of local life, make your way to the Mercado Municipal de Jaru (Jaru Municipal Market). This bustling market is the beating heart of the town, where locals come to shop for fresh produce, spices, and household goods. Wander through the colourful stalls, sample exotic fruits like cupuaçu and bacaba, and strike up a conversation with friendly vendors.

Some must-try local specialities at the market:

• Pirarucu de casaca: Shredded pirarucu fish with cassava flour and spices.

• Tacacá: Hearty soup with jambu leaves, dried shrimp, and tucupi.

• Açaí: Smoothie bowl made with açaí, granola, and fresh fruit.

4. Balneário Rios de Jaru

When the tropical heat gets too much to bear, locals head to the Balneário Rios de Jaru, a popular riverside recreation area just outside of town. Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon swimming in the cool, clear waters of the Jaru River, or rent a kayak and paddle downstream. The balneário also has a small beach area, perfect for sunbathing or playing a game of beach volleyball.

• Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Admission: R$ 5 per person

• Kayak rental: R$ 20 per hour

5. Pedra da Bela Vista

Hike to Pedra da Bela Vista for stunning views of Jaru and the Amazon rainforest. The steep one-hour trek rewards you with panoramic vistas of the Jaru River valley.

To reach the trailhead, take a taxi or moto taxi from central Jaru (around R$ 20). The well-marked trail is easy to follow, but bring water and wear sturdy shoes.

6. Festa do Café

If your visit to Jaru aligns with the annual Festa do Café in July, you’re in luck. This vibrant festival celebrates the region’s coffee heritage with live music, dance, and delicious food. Sample fresh coffee from local farmers, try traditional coffee-picking and join the festive parade through Jaru’s streets.

Where to Stay in Jaru

While Jaru may not have a huge selection of hotels, there are several comfortable and affordable options for travellers. Here are a few of our top picks:

Getting There and Around

The easiest way to get to Jaru is by flying into Porto Velho International Airport (PVH), located about 290 kilometres north of the town. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car for the 3.5-hour drive to Jaru.

Once in Jaru, the town is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle. For longer distances, taxis and moto-taxis are readily available and affordable.

Jaru Travel Tips

• The best time to visit Jaru is during the dry season (May to October) when temperatures are milder and rainfall is minimal.

• Portuguese is the primary language spoken in Jaru, but some locals may speak basic English. It’s a good idea to brush up on a few key phrases before your trip.

• Be sure to bring plenty of cash, as many establishments in Jaru may not accept credit cards.

   

Explore Jaru with Airtel’s Roaming Plans

To stay connected during your travels, consider purchasing an international roaming plan from a provider like Airtel. With Airtel’s affordable prepaid plans, you can enjoy seamless data connectivity and calling, ensuring you never miss a moment of your Jaru adventure.

Jaru may be small in size, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic Brazilian hospitality. Whether you’re hiking through pristine forests, sampling local delicacies at the market, or immersing yourself in the town’s fascinating history, Jaru offers a refreshingly off-the-beaten-path experience that will leave you with lasting memories. So why not add this hidden gem to your Brazil bucket list? Adventure awaits in Jaru.