A landlocked state that’s waiting to be discovered
It is well worth the journey from Rio to Belo Horizonte, gateway to Minas Gerais. Within the gently rolling hills lie a chain of the prettiest colonial towns in Brazil, the most famous being Ouro Preto, named after the gold that was mined here. Prospectors made their fortunes from the diamonds and gold found in the area, and poured their money into the pockets of artisans who lavishly decorated the churches.
You can see great baroque churches and buildings in the sleepy towns of Tiradentes, Mariana and Sâo Joao de Rei that haven’t changed much in the last 200 years.
Tea and fruit cake, a legacy of the many British railway workers and miners who came to settle in Minas, can be eaten in many of the towns. Diamonds and other gems can be bought un-mounted or as part of elaborate jewellery.
Soak up the history and culture or for those looking for more active pursuits we can organise hiking in the national parks, horse riding in the hills or kayaking down rivers with our local guides.
Rich in history, tradition and culture
When to go: April to November