Experience the Baroque splendour of the 18th century Brazilian gold rush in Ouro Preto, Mariana, Sabara, Congonhas do Campo, Sao Joao del Rei, 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.
Specialist Knowledge
Need some help with your trip? Our advisors have travelled extensively and using their firsthand knowledge & experience can help craft your perfect holiday.
Choose your perfect holiday Minas Gerais Colonial Cities
Find inspiration from our selection of itinerary suggestions, a great starting point for your next trip
View More Tours
Brazil
Rio City Break Tour
6 Nights from £1,657
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
Caiman Nature & Wildlife Tour
14 Nights from £5,720
Rio de Janeiro - Pantanal - Manaus - Amazon - Salvador - Praia do Forte
Brazil
Salvador City Break Tour
6 Nights from £1,760
Salvador da Bahia
Brazil
Samba Tour
20 Nights from £6,613
Rio de Janeiro - Paratí - Ouro Preto - Iguassu - Manaus - Amazon lodge - Brasília - Salvador - Praia do Forte Beach
Brazil
Diamante Tour
13 Nights from £3,045
Salvador - Chapada Diamantina (Lençois) - Salvador - Morro Sao Paulo
Brazil
Tucano Amazon Voyage Tour
8 Nights from £4,456
Manaus - Amazon Cruise (Rio Negro - Anavilhanes Achipelago) - Manaus
Brazil
Ninos Amazonas Family Tour
14 Nights from £3,202
Rio de Janeiro - Manaus - Amazon - Salvador - Praia do Forte Beach Resort
Brazil
Varzea Tour
13 Nights from £4,800
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Amazon Expedition Cruise - Salvador
Brazil
Tamboril Tour
12 Nights from £3,663
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Manaus - Amazon Lodge - Salvador
Brazil
Paquera Tour
13 Nights from £3,123
Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls - Salvador da Bahia - Praia do Forte Beach Resort
Brazil
Carioca Tour & February Carnival Tour
6 Nights from £2,387
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
Verde Tour
14 Nights from £3,578
Rio de Janeiro - Parati - Ilha Grande
- Accommodation
- View by Rating
Stay in touch
Infuse your travels, with inspiration from our monthly newsletter.
READY - 6 September 2024
LANDMARK TOURS - Multi-Country Itineraries
LIVE VIDEO REPORTS from our Local Country Guides
CHINA's People, Mysterious Culture & Ancient History
HONEYMOONS & CELEBRATIONS - "en Tete-a-Tete"
WINTER SUN - Get away from our dark Winter days
PERU & GALAPAGOS - Magical culture & wildlife
WEATHER TODAY - Check the weather worldwide
TRAVEL INSURANCE essential cover including COVID