Colonial Cities in Minas Gerais Holidays & Tailor-made Tours

Experience the Baroque splendour of the 18th century Brazilian gold rush in Ouro Preto, Mariana, Sabara, Congonhas do Campo, Sao Joao del Rei and Tiradentes.

The 18th century Brazilian gold rush financed beautiful Portuguese colonial architecture, with sumptuous baroque churches and mansions decorated with exquisite sculptures. The entire region is a homage to the brilliance of Brazilian sculptor and architect O Aleijadinho and his works can be seen and appreciated throughout.  The atmospheric cobbled streets are lined with interesting museums, shops selling local handicrafts and charming pousadas in which to stay. Restaurants here serve rich and hearty cuisine, comida Mineira, whilst the region is noted for its original variety of the Brazilian spirit cachaça.

A visit to Minas Gerais allows you to travel along the Estrada Real (Royal Road) - the route along which gold was transported to Rio de Janeiro, from where it was shipped to Europe. In exploring these cities you can immerse yourself in one of the most glorious, yet controversial, periods of Brazilian history, gaining a greater understanding of the history and psyche of this most complex of nations.

The cities of Ouro Preto and Mariana are in our Samba Tour itinerary and we can add Congonhas do Campo, Sao Joao del Rei and Tiradentes to your bespoke tour itinerary.