Ouro Preto: A Historic and Cultural Destination
The center of the Brazilian gold rush in the 18th century, Ouro Preto – which means “black gold” – is the first city in Brazil to be given the UNESCO World Heritage Site status. This city offers scenic natural landscapes, a rich history and colonial traditions – a perfect mix for an authentic Brazilian holiday.
Best Time to Visit
Ouro Preto has cool and dry weather months from of April to September. Be wise and book your Ouro Preto hotel in advance in this busy season. The wet and humid summer months discourage tourists, so there are fewer crowds and better accommodation rates. Festivals to note include the city’s birthday and the annual Winter Festival in July and the Ouro Preto Carnival in February.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Head to Mother Of Our Lady Of Conception where you can see with your own eyes a perfect example of the baroque architecture Ouro Preto is known for. Be charmed by the Caraca Natural Reserve, an expansive area with grassy lands and forests that serve as home to various species of birds, reptiles, fish and mammals. Satisfy your soul as you rummage through the stalls in Handicraft Market, which sells jewelry, cookware, religious statues and more. Stay at Hotel Pousada do Arcanjo and be wowed by the mountain views, or book a room at the Grande Hotel Ouro Preto, and be very close to many of the city’s attractions. Better yet, stay at the highly recommended Pousada Minas Gerais guesthouse.