São João del Rei Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and natural attractions of São João del Rei with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip with our itinerary recommendations and insider tips.


Introduction to São João del Rei

São João del Rei is located in the Central East region of Minas Gerais in Southeast Brazil. With its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes, São João del Rei is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Brazilian history and culture.

The town was founded in the 18th century and is known for its baroque churches, cobblestone streets, and mansions built by wealthy gold miners. São João del Rei is also a hub for music and literature, with an active cultural scene that includes concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.

List of Places to Visit in São João del Rei

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museum of Sacred Art of São João del Rei

The Museum of Sacred Art of São João del Rei is located in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion and features a stunning collection of Baroque religious art, including paintings, sculptures, and sacred objects.

Our Lady of Carmo Church

Built in the 18th century, Our Lady of Carmo Church is one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Brazil, with its intricate façade and colorful interior decoration.

Railway Museum

São João del Rei was an important stop on Brazil’s first railway line, and the Railway Museum showcases this history with exhibits and restored locomotives.

Natural Attractions of São João del Rei: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Serra de São José State Park

The Serra de São José State Park is a beautiful area of protected natural landscape, with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Rio das Mortes

The Rio das Mortes (River of the Dead) is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking, with classes ranging from beginner to advanced.

Fonte dos Amores

The Fonte dos Amores (Fountain of Love) is a natural swimming pool with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush vegetation and perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.

Hiking/Biking Routes of São João del Rei

São João del Rei has a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some popular routes include the Serra de São José trail, the Estrada Real trail, and the Caminho dos Anjos trail.

Best Things to Do in São João del Rei: Activities and Tours

Horseback Riding Tours

Horseback riding tours are a great way to explore the countryside around São João del Rei, with options ranging from short rides to multi-day excursions.

City Walking Tour

A city walking tour is a great way to explore the historic town center of São João del Rei, with its colonial-era buildings and landmarks.

Classical Music Concerts

São João del Rei has a rich musical heritage and is home to a number of classical music ensembles and orchestras, making it a great destination for music lovers.

Week-Long Itinerary for São João del Rei

Day 1: Historic Town Center

Explore the historic town center of São João del Rei, including the baroque churches and mansions built by wealthy gold miners.

Day 2: Serra de São José State Park

Hike the trails of the Serra de São José State Park, with its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Day 3: Horseback Riding Tour

Take a horseback riding tour of the surrounding countryside, with options ranging from short rides to multi-day excursions.

Day 4: Rio das Mortes

Go rafting or kayaking on the Rio das Mortes (River of the Dead), with classes available for all skill levels.

Day 5: Museum Tour

Explore the Museum of Sacred Art of São João del Rei, the Railway Museum, and other cultural attractions.

Day 6: Classical Music Concert

Enjoy a concert by one of São João del Rei’s many classical music ensembles or orchestras.

Day 7: Fonte dos Amores

Spend the day relaxing at the Fonte dos Amores (Fountain of Love), with its crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation.

Food and Drink Scene of São João del Rei

Must-Try Dishes

Tutu de Feijão

Tutu de Feijão is a traditional Brazilian dish made with beans, rice, and bacon. It is often served as a side dish with meat or as a main course with a fried egg on top.

Queijo Minas

Queijo Minas is a popular cheese from the Minas Gerais region, known for its sweet and mild taste.

Local Beverages

Cachaça

Cachaça is a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice and is an essential ingredient in many Brazilian cocktails.

Coffee

Brazil is famous for its coffee, and São João del Rei is no exception. Be sure to try a cup of freshly roasted coffee from one of the town’s many cafes.

Where to Stay in São João del Rei: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pousada do Ó

Located in the historic town center, Pousada do Ó is a charming guesthouse with comfortable, spacious rooms and a beautiful courtyard.

Residencial Villa Real

Residencial Villa Real is a modern hotel with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

Hospedaria Casa Real

Hospedaria Casa Real is a cozy guesthouse located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, with a garden and a terrace.

What to Buy in São João del Rei: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Minas Gerais Cheeses

Queijo Minas and other cheeses from the Minas Gerais region are a popular souvenir to bring back home.

Handicrafts

São João del Rei is known for its handicrafts, including pottery, embroidery, and woodcarving.

Local Culture and Customs of São João del Rei

São João del Rei has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its music, literature, and festivals. The town has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and visitors are encouraged to explore the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit São João del Rei

The best time to visit São João del Rei is from April to October, when the weather is mild and dry and there are fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of São João del Rei

Do:

  • Explore the historic town center
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Attend a classical music concert or festival
  • Visit the Serra de São José State Park

Don’t:

  • Dress inappropriately when visiting religious sites
  • Litter or damage natural landmarks
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in São João del Rei

São João del Rei is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take common precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in São João del Rei

Brazil has a high prevalence of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and Zika virus. Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.

Getting to São João del Rei: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near São João del Rei

The nearest airport to São João del Rei is Belo Horizonte International Airport, located around 190 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a bus or rented car to São João del Rei.

Bus Stations Near São João del Rei

São João del Rei has a bus station that connects to other cities in the region, including Belo Horizonte and Rio de Janeiro.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to travel to São João del Rei.

How to Get Around in São João del Rei

São João del Rei is a relatively small town, and visitors can easily explore on foot. Taxis and hired cars are also available for longer trips.

Where to Go Next from São João del Rei: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tiradentes

Tiradentes is a nearby colonial town that is also well worth a visit, with its quaint streets and beautiful architecture.

Ouro Preto

Ouro Preto is a larger town famous for its gold mining history and stunning Baroque architecture.

Inhotim

Inhotim is a contemporary art museum located in the nearby city of Brumadinho, with expansive gardens and world-renowned art collections.

Conclusion

São João del Rei offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring the historic town center, hiking in the Serra de São José State Park, or savoring the local cuisine, São João del Rei is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Old bridge in São João del Rey Old bridge in São João del Rey