Discover Ouro Preto and Minas Gerais: Culture, History & Nature
Minas Gerais is a captivating region in Brazil, blending cosmopolitan cities, rugged mountains, colonial mining towns, and lush forests. Divided into an arid north and verdant south, it’s famous for coffee production and boasts more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other state in Brazil.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the discovery of precious metals led to the region’s name, “Minas Gerais” or "General Mines." Prosperity from mining brought wealth to Gold Towns like Ouro Preto, known for its cobbled streets, ornate churches, and museums showcasing its gold rush heritage. These towns offer a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past and architectural brilliance.
Belo Horizonte, the state capital, is a lively hub with beautiful parks, Art Deco buildings, and a thriving food scene, making it the perfect base to explore the region.
Why Visit Minas Gerais?
Visiting Minas Gerais is like stepping back in time to an unspoiled region of Brazil, filled with vibrant cities and charming hill towns set against lush landscapes. Stroll through winding streets lined with ornate churches and colonial mansions, then venture beyond the cities to discover coffee plantations, authentic cattle ranches, healing hot springs, and more. The region also offers mouth-watering rustic dishes, while music festivals are held throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy.
Brazil
-3 hours
Real (BZL)
Ouro Preto
Best Time To Go
The ideal time to visit Minas Gerais is between April and September, when the region experiences its driest months. During this period, temperatures typically range from 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C), offering pleasant weather for exploring. If you don’t mind occasional rain showers, the months from October to March are also a great option, with warmer temperatures that can reach up to 83°F (28°C). Keep in mind that while the wet season may bring more rain, the lush landscapes and vibrant greenery make it an enchanting time to visit.
About Minas Gerais, Ouro Preto and things to do
Minas Gerais, with its rich colonial past, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a wealth of activities for every traveller. From the charming streets of Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the scenic Tiradentes and the historical Diamantina, the state is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you're fascinated by Baroque architecture, eager to explore mining history, or looking to immerse yourself in nature, Minas Gerais has something for everyone. Below are some of the top things to do in this captivating region of Brazil.
Things to Do in and Around Minas Gerais
- Explore Ouro Preto
- Discover the historic colonial town that was once the epicentre of the gold rush.
- Visit Praça Tiradentes and admire the original buildings that line the picturesque centre.
- Explore museums dedicated to revolutionaries, minerals, and local artwork.
- Take a guided tour of some of the world's largest mines, uncovering subterranean wonders, underground lakes, and tunnels.
- Sample traditional Minas Gerais cuisine and enjoy a concert at South America's oldest theatre after dark.
- Discover Tiradentes
- Wander through this charming colonial town set among scenic mountain landscapes, just 3 hours southwest of Ouro Preto.
- Stroll along cobbled streets, browse handicraft shops, and admire whitewashed colonial houses.
- Take a walking tour of the open-air museum, featuring ancient churches and horse-drawn carriages.
- Hike to São José Ridge, passing crystal-clear waterfalls and enjoy panoramic sunset views over the city.
- Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the narrow-gauge railway to São João del-Rei.
- Explore Diamantina
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture.
- Discover the Casa de Juscelino, a former president's home now turned into a museum.
- Explore the Diamond Museum to learn about the region's diamond mining history.
- Visit Casarão do Fórum, one of the city’s most beautiful buildings.
- Enjoy excursions to nearby locations such as Belo Horizonte, Governador Valadares, and Mariana.
- Spend a day or two exploring the stunning Sete Lagoas area, surrounded by seven lakes.
Highlights of Minas Gerais
Minas Gerais & Ouro Preto: Unveiling Brazil’s Colonial Treasures
