North Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking and biking routes, local food and drinks, where to stay, and more with this comprehensive guide to North, Minas Gerais, Brazil.


Introduction to North

North is a charming region located in the state of Minas Gerais in southeastern Brazil. It is a place where visitors can experience a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty.

This area is full of landmarks, cultural centers, and natural parks. The region offers a glimpse into the olden days of Brazil, with small countryside towns scattered throughout the region.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the must-see attractions, activities, and destinations that North has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in North

Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in North:

  • Diamantina
  • Serro
  • Serra do Cipó National Park
  • Conceição do Mato Dentro
  • Grão Mogol
  • São Gonçalo do Rio das Pedras
  • Gouveia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

North has a rich history and culture, and there are many museums and historical places to explore in the region. Here are some of the top cultural attractions in North:

  • Casa de Juscelino Kubitschek Museum in Diamantina
  • Serro museum
  • Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions in Belo Horizonte
  • Old Train Station Museum in Conceição do Mato Dentro

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions in North:

  • Serra do Cipó National Park
  • Caves of Andorinhas in Diamantina
  • Waterfalls in Conceição do Mato Dentro
  • Serra da Candonga in Serro

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

North offers an array of trails and scenic bike rides, making it an ideal destination for adventure-seekers. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in North include:

  • Hike to Cachoeira do Tabuleiro in Conceição do Mato Dentro
  • Morro do Forno - hike and bike trail in Serra do Cipó National Park
  • Serra da Canastra National Park

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

North has a variety of activities to suit every taste, age, and budget. Here are some of the best things to do in North:

  • Explore the historic town of Diamantina
  • Visit the Serra do Cipó National Park
  • Take a guided tour to Serra da Candonga in Serro
  • Go horse riding in Grão Mogol

Week-Long Itinerary for North

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to North:

Day 1: Arrive in Diamantina, explore the historic town Day 2: Visit the Serra do Cipó National Park Day 3: Go horse riding in Grão Mogol Day 4: Discover the Waterfalls in Conceição do Mato Dentro Day 5: Explore the town of Serro, take a guided tour Day 6: Visit Serra da Candonga in Serro, hike and bike trail Day 7: Depart from North

Food and Drink Scene of North

North has a unique culinary scene, with flavorsome dishes and drinks that pay homage to the region’s history and culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pão de queijo, a small cheese bread made with cassava flour
  • Frango ao molho pardo, chicken in a brown sauce, a regional dish
  • Feijão tropeiro, a mix of beans, pork, manioc flour, and plenty of seasonings

Local Beverages

  • Cachaça, a distilled spirit made from sugarcane
  • Coffee, Minas Gerais is famous for its coffee farms

Where to Stay in North: Hotels, Hostels, Guesthouses

North offers an array of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to quaint guesthouses.

Here are some of the best places to stay in North:

  • Hotel Estação do Trem in Conceição do Mato Dentro
  • Pousada Chão de Minas in Serra do Cipó National Park
  • Pousada Mirante do Sol in Serro

What to Buy in North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North has a unique range of souvenirs and local products that make for excellent gifts to bring back home. Here are some of the top items to buy:

  • Handmade crafts
  • Cachaça from local distilleries
  • Local coffee or cheese

Local Culture and Customs of North

The locals of North are warm and friendly, and visitors are encouraged to interact with them to learn more about their customs and traditions. It is customary to greet with a handshake or kiss on the cheek. Visitors should also dress modestly when visiting religious sites and churches.

Best Time to Visit North

The best time to visit North is between May and September, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Avoid visiting in the summer months (December to February) where temperatures can soar beyond comfort levels.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local food and drink
  • Be cautious when hiking and biking

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing
  • Travel alone at night

Safety and Health

Safety in North

North is generally safe, but visitors should take basic precautions like they would in any other part of the world. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables. Be cautious when walking around cities at night.

Health in North

Visitors should make sure they are up to date on routine vaccinations before travelling to North. It is also advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent any stomach issues.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

North is accessible by road and air, with regular bus services and airports located in nearby cities.

Airports Near North

The closest airport to North is in Tancredo Neves International Airport, located in Confins, 283 km away from Diamantina.

Bus Stations Near North

The main bus station in North is the Diamantina Bus Station, located in the historic town center of Diamantina.

Other Options

Visitors can rent a car or hire a taxi to travel around North.

How to Get Around in North

The best way to get around North is by car or taxi. Bikes are also a great option for exploring the national parks and outdoors.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the best nearby destinations to visit after exploring North:

  • The city of Belo Horizonte, located about 3.5 hours away by car or bus
  • Serra da Canastra National Park, located about 4 hours away by car or bus

Conclusion

North, Minas Gerais, Brazil is a hidden gem that offers visitors the opportunity to explore Brazil’s historical, cultural, and natural attractions. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to North.

Countryside in Grão Mogol Countryside in Grão Mogol


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