Complete Travel Guide to Itumbiara, Brazil

Itumbiara Itumbiara is a municipality in Brazil, located in the southern part of the state of Goiás, on the border with Minas Gerais. It is a "sister city" to the Minas Gerais municipality of Araporã. The city lies south of the state capital, Goiânia, approximately 204 kilometers away, and 411 kilometers from the federal capital, Brasília. Covering an area of 2,447 square kilometres (945 sq mi), Itumbiara is the thirteenth most populous municipality in Goiás, with a population of 107,970 inhabitants according to the 2022 census by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). As a municipal center, Itumbiara serves as an important administrative and economic hub for the surrounding region, providing essential services and infrastructure that support both urban and rural communities. Positioned at coordinates -18.41917°N, -49.21528°E, Itumbiara occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Itumbiara place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 448.0 meters above sea level, Itumbiara benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Itumbiara creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 107970 residents, Itumbiara maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Itumbiara represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Itumbiara reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Brazil, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Goiás province, Itumbiara contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Brazil's regional character. The role of Itumbiara in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Itumbiara discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Brazil while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Itumbiara

History Around 1824, General Cunha Matos initiated the construction of a road linking the Goiás locality of Anhanguera to the Minas Gerais city of Uberaba The beginning and end of the road required the crossing of the Paranaíba River, which forms the border between Goiás and Minas Gerais.

This crossing was established at a port, where the state government set up a revenue collection post As an interstate crossing, the post aimed to regulate traffic at that point The fertile lands in the region, ideal for agriculture and cattle raising, coupled with this development, led to the gradual formation of a small settlement.

The residents of this nascent urban center built a chapel and dedicated it to Saint Rita In homage to their patron saint, the settlement was named Porto de Santa Rita On August 21, 1852, provincial resolution No 18 elevated the area to the status of a district named Santa Rita do Paranaíba.

It was established as a municipality by State Law No 349 on July 16, 1909, under Governor Urbano Coelho de Gouveia The municipality was officially established on October 12, 1909, and was elevated to city status by State Law No 518 on July 27, 1915, and to a _comarca_ by Law No.

621 on July 29, 1918 Despite the abundance of water surrounding the city, electricity was not introduced until 1933 Itumbiara was the scene of two revolutions in the 1930s The first significant conflict was part of the 1930 Revolution, pitting forces loyal to President Washington Luís against supporters of the reformist ideas of future President Getúlio Vargas.

Approximately one hundred Itumbiara residents participated in this episode Washington Luís Avenue, located in the city center, marks the site of the conflict The second violent confrontation in the city occurred during the 1932 Constitutionalist Revolution, between the Army and rebel forces from São Paulo.

This revolutionary movement, primarily composed of lawyers, teachers, merchants, and university students, aimed to demand immediate general elections for the President of the Republic, Deputies, and Senators, and the drafting of a new Brazilian Constitution.

Although President Getúlio Vargas suppressed the São Paulo revolutionaries, elections were held in 1933, and Brazil transitioned to a state of law with the promulgation of the 1934 Constitution The Affonso Penna Bridge still bears bullet marks from this episode in Brazilian history.

Engineer Inácio Pais Leme, who built the "Itumbiara" road from Santa Rita do Paranaíba to Cachoeira Dourada, forty kilometers from the city, proposed naming the municipality after the road, which in Tupi means "Path to the Waterfall " The Goiás government approved this suggestion.

Itumbiara's first municipal administrator was Mr Antônio Joaquim da Silva, appointed shortly after its emancipation Other pioneering figures who held significant roles during the municipality's establishment included Major Rogério Prates Cotrim, the first municipal judge; José O.

The historical trajectory of Itumbiara demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Itumbiara reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Itumbiara remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Itumbiara spans an area of 2,461 km², accounting for 0. 7237% of Goiás's territory, 0. 1538% of the Central-West Region, and 0. 029% of Brazil's total surface area. The urbanized area of the municipality covers 19. 3424 km², making it one of the largest urbanized areas among Goiás municipalities. The city is situated at an elevation ranging from 320 to 448 meters, depending on the location, with the highest points not exceeding 800 meters. Itumbiara borders the following municipalities: Goiatuba, Panamá, and Buriti Alegre to the north; the state of Minas Gerais to the south; Buriti Alegre to the east; and Bom Jesus de Goiás and Cachoeira Dourada to the west. Vila de Furnas, one of the city's 58 neighborhoods The municipality features predominantly mountainous terrain with undulating sections, though most of the landscape is flat, ideal for agriculture and pasture. The mountainous terrain surrounding Itumbiara creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. The Santa Rita Range, along the Paranaíba River, extends its foothills inland, separating water masses. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Besides this range, there are several hills, none of which are particularly prominent. The region’s altitude varies from 320 to 448 meters. The vegetation cover of Itumbiara is typically formed by fields and _cerrado_ , with common species including angico, aroeira, grasses, courbaril, nance, pequi, and sea hibiscus. Itumbiara has no administrative regions and is divided into 58 neighborhoods. Among the most populous are Afonso Pena, Novo Horizonte, Vila Vitória, Nossa Senhora da Saúde, and Cidade Jardim. #Hydrography Paranaíba River, on the border between Itumbiara and the Minas Gerais municipality of Araporã. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Itumbiara is located within the Paraná River Basin, in the Paraná hydrographic region. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The municipal seat is bathed by the Paranaíba River, Trindade Stream, and the Água Suja, Pombas, and Buriti creeks. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The territory is also crossed by the Rio dos Bois and Meia Ponte River, along with notable streams such as Santa Maria, Campanha, Bom Sucesso, Boa Vereda, Medes, and Posses. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Hundreds of smaller creeks are also present. The Paranaíba River originates in Minas Gerais, in the Mata da Corda region, in the municipality of Rio Paranaíba, which shares the river’s name. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. It is one of the tributaries forming the Paraná River, alongside the Rio Grande. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The Rio dos Bois originates in the Congumé Range, in Americano do Brasil, and flows into the Paranaíba River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The Meia Ponte River has its source in the Brandões Range, in Itauçu. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Due to the significant energy potential of the Paranaíba River, large hydroelectric plants have been built in Itumbiara’s territory, including the Itumbiara Hydroelectric Plant, the largest hydroelectric facility operated by Furnas Centrais Elétricas S. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Itumbiara, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. , which forms an artificial lake. #Climate Highest 24-hour precipitation accumulations recorded in Itumbiara by month (INMET) Month Accumulation Date Month Accumulation Date January 100. 5 millimetres (3. 96 in) 16/01/1991 July 47. 2 millimetres (1. 86 in) 25/07/2014 F.

The topographic characteristics of Itumbiara result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Itumbiara region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Itumbiara area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Itumbiara has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Itumbiara demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Itumbiara create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Highest 24-hour precipitation accumulations recorded in Itumbiara by month (INMET) Month Accumulation Date Month Accumulation Date January 100. Rainfall patterns in Itumbiara determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 5 millimetres (3. 96 in) 16/01/1991 July 47. 2 millimetres (1. 86 in) 25/07/2014 February 91. 9 millimetres (3. 62 in) 08/02/2004 August 47. 1 millimetres (1. 85 in) 23/08/1993 March 122. 2 millimetres (4. 81 in) 16/03/2019 September 44. 4 millimetres (1. 75 in) 29/09/1991 April 80. 4 millimetres (3. 17 in) 10/04/2011 October 95. 2 millimetres (3. 75 in) 05/10/2016 May 64. 6 millimetres (2. 54 in) 07/05/1995 November 92. 5 millimetres (3. 64 in) 05/11/2009 June 49. 6 millimetres (1. 95 in) 06/06/1997 December 165. 2 millimetres (6. 50 in) 12/12/2005 Period : 10/06/1989–present The climate of Itumbiara is tropical (type Aw according to the Köppen classification), with a wet season from October to April, characterized by moderately high temperatures, and a dry season from May to September, with milder temperatures. Temperature patterns in Itumbiara influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Autumn and spring serve as transitional seasons. Sudden temperature changes are common in the region. Temperature patterns in Itumbiara influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. The most significant climatic variations occur from mid-August to January, when the weather becomes substantially hot, with apparent temperatures approaching or exceeding 40 °C (104 °F). Temperature patterns in Itumbiara influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. According to data from the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET), since June 1989, the lowest temperature recorded in Itumbiara was 1. Temperature patterns in Itumbiara influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 4 °F) on July 18, 2000, and the highest reached 42 °C (108 °F) on October 7, 2020. The highest 24-hour precipitation accumulation was 165. Rainfall patterns in Itumbiara determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 2 millimetres (6. 50 in) on December 12, 2005. Accumulations of 100 millimetres (3. 9 in) or more were also recorded on December 27, 1996 (122. 5 millimetres (4. 82 in)), March 16, 2019 (122. 2 millimetres (4. 81 in)), December 8, 2003 (113 millimetres (4. 4 in)), and January 16, 1991 (100. 5 millimetres (3. Climate data for Itumbiara (1981–2010 normals, extremes 1989–present) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 37. 6) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 31. 3) Daily mean °C (°F) 25. 6) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 21. 3) Record low °C (°F) 16.

The climatic regime of Itumbiara reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Itumbiara create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Itumbiara determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Itumbiara create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Itumbiara demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Itumbiara include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Culture and society #Tourism Ecotourism is the primary driver of tourism in Itumbiara, serving as a key pathway for the city’s development. This is characterized by the competitive advantages of the region in this sector, with a particular emphasis on the large lake of the Itumbiara Dam, which has a depth of 521. 20 meters, a flooded area of 778 km², and a total volume of 17 billion m³. This is equivalent to two Guanabara Bays. Night view of Itumbiara, seen from the Minas Gerais municipality of Araporã. In recent years, the lake area of the Paranaíba River Dam has become a popular venue for gatherings of fishermen and fishing teams engaging in sport fishing, a phenomenon highlighted in specialized magazines that rank Itumbiara as the second-best location in Brazil for sport fishing of peacock bass. The Paranaíba River also hosts various water sports. Henrique Santillo International Kartodrome, located in the west- central part of the city, hosts regional, national, and international events. It has a capacity for 5,000 people. Among the municipality’s main natural tourist attractions are the Paranaíba River, which acts as a vast mirror reflecting the well-constructed buildings along its banks on one side and the state of Minas Gerais on the other; and the Salitre Waterfall, located in the rural area near the border with Buriti Alegre, offering trails and climbing opportunities. Historical tourist attractions include the Main Square (Praça Matriz), established by municipal decree No. 538 in April 1934, authored by Sidney Pereira de Almeida. At the time of its construction, it was the city’s first public garden. The project was executed by engineer Eduardo Figueiredo Mendes and opened to the public on June 23, 1935. It is now called Republic Square (Praça da República); the Affonso Penna suspension bridge, built to meet the significant need for development in the southwest of Goiás and to improve connections with major centers such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro; and the Cyro Gomes de Almeida Bridge, constructed over the Paranaíba River in 1958 to replace the old Affonso Penna Bridge, during the period when Brazil’s capital was transferred from Rio de Janeiro to Brasília in 1960. The bridge is named in honor of its builder, Cyro Gomes de Almeida. #Arts Several theater groups operate in the municipality. In 1919, the first theater group was established in Itumbiara, making it one of the pioneers in this field in southern Goiás. It was founded and conceptualized by José Flávio Soares, a journalist from the region. That same year, the first theatrical play in the municipality, also authored by José Flávio Soares, was performed. The first cinema in Itumbiara, named Cine Brasil, was owned by Sidney Pereira de Almeida. The movie “The Ace of the West”, a cowboy movie, was shown there. It was the first movie shown in the city. #Events Itumbiara hosts numerous events annually, some of which are well-known among.

The cultural landscape of Itumbiara represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Itumbiara reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Itumbiara continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Itumbiara provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Itumbiara demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Itumbiara provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Itumbiara’s gross domestic product (GDP) is the seventh largest in Goiás. It excels particularly in the service sector. According to 2018 data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the municipality’s GDP was R$ 4,187,512. 28, with a per capita GDP of R$ 49,832. 28, placing it 16th among municipalities in the Central-West and 261st among Brazilian municipalities in terms of GDP. Of the city’s total GDP, R$ 245,834 comes from the gross value added by agriculture (primary sector), R$ 911,098 from industry (secondary sector), R$ 406,492 from taxes on products net of subsidies, and R$ 1,511,568 from service provision (tertiary sector). The service sector is currently the primary contributor to Itumbiara’s GDP. Itumbiara is also one of Goiás’s most competitive municipalities. Its easy access to the South and Southeast of Brazil facilitates product distribution. This is a key factor in the production, expansion, and establishment of new agro-industries in the Diagri – Itumbiara Agroindustrial District, fostering local economic growth and development. Itumbiara is Goiás’s largest exporter. #Primary sector Agriculture Located in the fertile valley of the Paranaíba River, Itumbiara relies on agriculture as a primary source of income. Although it remains a significant part of the local economy, agriculture is gradually losing ground to industry. According to the 1996 Agricultural Census, Itumbiara’s cultivated area included 50,489 hectares of temporary crops, 720 hectares of permanent crops, 17,085 hectares of natural pastures, 106,946 hectares of artificial (planted) pastures, 20,222 hectares of natural and artificial forests, and 2,132 hectares of irrigated crops. The total area is 246,460 hectares, of which 202,610 are suitable for agriculture and pasture formation. In 1996, the municipality had 1,240 rural properties, 981 tractors, 755 mechanically powered plows, 19 animal-drawn plows, 141 harvesters, and 3,645 planting machines. Itumbiara has 39 dry storage and warehousing facilities, sufficient to handle the municipality’s production and that of neighboring municipalities. In 1997, it had a storage capacity of 573,500 tons or 9,550,000 60-kilogram sacks, distributed as follows: 346,141 m³ of conventional warehouses (equivalent to 186,920 tons), 193,240 tons in bulk warehouses, and 193,340 tons in silo warehouses. In 2006, the agricultural sector generated 4,441 direct jobs, with 3,548 positions filled by men and 893 by women. Of these, 4,142 jobs were held by individuals over 14 years old. Livestock According to the 1996 Agricultural Census, Itumbiara had a bovine herd density of 66. 09 heads per km², with a total of 162,896 cattle. By 2006, the number of cattle had decreased to 120,792, alongside 2,271 horses, 50 buffalo, and 16 donkeys. Other notable animals in 1996 included 46 buffalo, 5,886 pigs, 756 sheep, 2,013 goats, and 95,580 poultry (chickens, hens, roosters), producing 140,438 dozen eggs a.

The economic structure of Itumbiara reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Itumbiara often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Itumbiara serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Itumbiara demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Itumbiara has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Itumbiara focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation Itumbiara Airport. The municipality has a strong tradition in road transportation. Located along one of Brazil’s busiest corridors, Itumbiara is served by highways and roads that connect it to major urban centers such as Goiânia, Brasília, Uberlândia, and São Paulo. The distance between the municipal seat and the state capital, Goiânia, is approximately 206 kilometers. The distance to the federal capital, Brasília, is 404 kilometers. The three main highways in Itumbiara are BR-153, also known as the Transbrasiliana Highway, which provides access to the capitals Goiânia and Brasília; BR-452, which connects the city to Rio Verde; and GO-419, which links to Buriti Alegre. Itumbiara has limited tradition in river transportation, largely due to the absence of navigable rivers within its territory. However, the Paranaíba River is extensively used for river transport, particularly for ecotourism activities. The Itumbiara Airport—officially named Itumbiara-Francisco Vilela do Amaral Airport (ICAO: SBIT)—is operated by the municipal government. It has an asphalt runway of 2,700 meters, suitable for both day and night flights, and can accommodate large aircraft. “Traçar rota - Trace sua rota”. Archived from the original on January 28, 2015. Retrieved January 24, 2015. “Calcular Distância e Rota entre Cidades”. Distância entre Cidades. Archived from the original on January 28, 2015. Retrieved January 24, 2015. ^ a b c “Itumbiara (GO) - Transportes”. Retrieved March 2, 2011.

Transportation infrastructure serving Itumbiara reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Brazil. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Itumbiara.

Regional connectivity from Itumbiara provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

#Education Itumbiara has schools in all regions of the municipality. In 2009, the municipality recorded approximately 13,708 enrollments in primary education, 4,000 in secondary education, and 2,146 in early childhood education. Of the municipality’s educational institutions, 48.9% were for primary education, 34.1% for early childhood education, and 17% for secondary education. In terms of teachers, 64.8% were in primary education, 25% in secondary education and 10.2% in early childhood education. For higher education, Itumbiara hosts a campus of the Goiás State University (UEG) and the Federal Institute of Goiás, the only two public higher education institutions. Private higher education institutions include the Lutheran Institute of Higher Education of Itumbiara, part of the Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Santa Rita de Cássia Faculty (UNIFASC), North Paraná University (UNOPAR), and Uniasselvi. The municipality also has units of the SENAI, SENAC, and SESI, contributing to some of the highest literacy and professional training rates in Goiás. In 2013, Itumbiara scored 6.4 on the Basic Education Development Index (IDEB) for the initial years of primary education. For the final years of primary education, the score was 5.2, surpassing the previous score but falling below the state average. 1. ^ a b @ Cidades - IBGE. “Ensino - matrículas, docentes e rede escolar 2009”. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Retrieved 24 February 2011. 2. @ Cidades - IBGE. “Ensino - matrículas, docentes e rede escolar 2009 - Ensino fundamental”. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Retrieved 24 February 2011. 3. @ Cidades - IBGE. “Ensino - matrículas, docentes e rede escolar 2009 - Ensino médio”. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Retrieved 24 February 2011. 4. @ Cidades - IBGE. “Ensino - matrículas, docentes e rede escolar 2009 - Ensino pré-escolas”. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Retrieved 24 February 2011. 5. “Alunos de Goiás apresentam trabalhos no maior evento nacional de ensino de Química”. Universidade Luterana do Brasil (ULBRA). Archived from the original on 2010-12-04. Retrieved 24 February 2011. 6. “Faculdade Santa Rita de Cássia (UNIFASC)”. Faculdade Santa Rita de Cássia. Retrieved 24 February 2011. 7. “UNOPAR UNIVERSIDADE”. Net Sabe. Retrieved 24 January 2015. 8. “UNIASSELVI - CENTRO UNIVERSITÁRIO LEONARDO DA VINCI”. Net Sabe. Retrieved 24 February 2011. 9. Cite error: The named reference SEPLAN was invoked but never defined (see the help page). 10. Instituto Nacional de Estudos e Pesquisas Anísio Teixeira (INEP). “Índice de Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica (IDEB) - Resultados e Metas”. Ministério da Educação (MEC). Retrieved 24 January 2015.

Educational institutions in Itumbiara serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Visitor Attractions and Cultural Experiences

#Tourism Ecotourism is the primary driver of tourism in Itumbiara, serving as a key pathway for the city's development. This is characterized by the competitive advantages of the region in this sector, with a particular emphasis on the large lake of the Itumbiara Dam, which has a depth of 521.20 meters, a flooded area of 778 km², and a total volume of 17 billion m³. This is equivalent to two Guanabara Bays. Night view of Itumbiara, seen from the Minas Gerais municipality of Araporã. In recent years, the lake area of the Paranaíba River Dam has become a popular venue for gatherings of fishermen and fishing teams engaging in sport fishing, a phenomenon highlighted in specialized magazines that rank Itumbiara as the second-best location in Brazil for sport fishing of peacock bass. The Paranaíba River also hosts various water sports. The Dr. Henrique Santillo International Kartodrome, located in the west- central part of the city, hosts regional, national, and international events. It has a capacity for 5,000 people. Among the municipality's main natural tourist attractions are the Paranaíba River, which acts as a vast mirror reflecting the well-constructed buildings along its banks on one side and the state of Minas Gerais on the other; and the Salitre Waterfall, located in the rural area near the border with Buriti Alegre, offering trails and climbing opportunities. Historical tourist attractions include the Main Square (Praça Matriz), established by municipal decree No. 538 in April 1934, authored by Sidney Pereira de Almeida. At the time of its construction, it was the city's first public garden. The project was executed by engineer Eduardo Figueiredo Mendes and opened to the public on June 23, 1935. It is now called Republic Square (Praça da República); the Affonso Penna suspension bridge, built to meet the significant need for development in the southwest of Goiás and to improve connections with major centers such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro; and the Cyro Gomes de Almeida Bridge, constructed over the Paranaíba River in 1958 to replace the old Affonso Penna Bridge, during the period when Brazil's capital was transferred from Rio de Janeiro to Brasília in 1960. The bridge is named in honor of its builder, Cyro Gomes de Almeida. 1. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ "Turismo - Itumbiara". Eco Viagem. Retrieved March 3, 2011. 2. ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ "Turismo - Principais Pontos Turísticos". Ferias Tur. Retrieved March 3, 2011. 3. "Itumbiara (GO) - Cachoeira Salitre". Viagens & Passagens Aéreas. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved January 25, 2015.

Tourism opportunities in Itumbiara emphasize authentic cultural experiences and meaningful interaction with local communities rather than commercialized attractions, providing visitors with genuine insights into traditional ways of life.

Planning Your Visit to Itumbiara

Successful visits to Itumbiara require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Itumbiara often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Itumbiara include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Itumbiara extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.