Minas Gerais Treasures: Nature, Culture & History in 6 Days

Minas Gerais: Nature, Culture & Historic Treasures

Discover the soul of Minas Gerais through Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial architecture, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Serra do Espinhaço mountains.

6 days / 5 nights

Culture, History, Hiking & Wildlife

More About the Experience

Discover the diverse beauty and rich cultural heritage of Minas Gerais on a journey through three of Brazil’s most captivating destinations: cultural haven Brumadinho, historic gold Ouro Preto, and the rich Caraça mountains. In Brumadinho, experience two contrasting sides of the region through a rural cultural tour, including a visit to a traditional quilombo community and a locally prepared lunch, alongside a separate day exploring Inhotim, one of the world’s most remarkable open-air contemporary art museums, set within lush botanical gardens. Continue to Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, magnificent Baroque churches, and rich history shaped by Brazil’s gold rush. Conclude your journey at the Sanctuary of Caraça, a peaceful retreat surrounded by mountains, forests, and extraordinary biodiversity. Enjoy scenic hikes, discover the region’s natural beauty, and observe its diverse birdlife. You can also enjoy your journey with an optional overnight stay in Belo Horizonte, the vibrant capital of Minas Gerais, renowned for its lively bohemian culture and exceptional gastronomy.

Trip Highligths

Connect with Afro-Brazilian heritage
Discover art in nature at Inhotim
Wander cobblestone streets and visit two historic churches and a museum.
Experience the mountains of Caraça and see the maned wolf.

Where this trip will take you

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Brumadinho

Discover the cultural and natural diversity of Brumadinho through a rural experience that includes a visit to a traditional quilombo community, where you’ll learn about Afro-Brazilian heritage and enjoy a locally prepared lunch. On a separate day, explore Inhotim, an extraordinary open-air contemporary art museum combining world-class art installations, architecture, and botanical gardens. Stay for two nights at Ecovila Coração da Mata, with breakfast included. In Brumadinho, you also have options to add-on hands-on crafts workshops, visit a goat farm to learn about cheese production, or enjoy a private fine dining experience like no other, amongst other activities.

Ouro Preto

Explore Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its cobblestone streets, beautifully preserved colonial buildings, and remarkable Baroque art and architecture, with works from famed sculptor Aleijadinho. During a guided walking tour, discover the city’s fascinating history and visit two historic churches and one museum, gaining insight into the art, architecture, and legacy of the Brazilian gold rush. Stay overnight in a mansion from colonial Minas Gerais with an iconic breakfast spread.

Santuário do Caraça

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Sanctuary of Caraça, a historic retreat run by Vincentine Catholic priests and their community. You’ll be surrounded by mountains, forests, and rich biodiversity. Enjoy one full day and one morning of guided excursions and hikes through the surrounding landscapes, with opportunities to admire scenic mountain views and observe the region’s diverse birdlife – including the maned wolf!

Belo Horizonte

An add-on to this tour, spend a night in bustling Belo Horizonte. The city with the most bars per inhabitant in Brazil, bohemian culture thrives, but so does art, including urban art all around you, and architecture, including some of Niemeyer’s most iconic works, like the São Francisco museum in the Pamplona park complex. Catch a football match at Mineirão, and enjoy some of Brazil’s best comfort food in this warm and welcoming state capital.