Ouro Preto Tours |
Founded in the early eighteenth century, Ouro Preto is a masterpiece of colonial Brazilian architecture and art. In fact, UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage Site. Here the intricate details of the buildings and art works clearly reflect the originality and autonomy of the craftsmen and artists who created this monument of Brazilian baroque style. A visit to Ouro Preto is a step back into history and past human accomplishments. |
Ouro Preto TourDAY 1 – Origin – Belo Horizonte – Ouro Preto
Airport arrival at Belo Horizonte and final transfer to Ouro Preto, the crown jewel of Minas Gerais’ historical cities. Thanks to the gold and diamond fever, there are numerous cities of colonial architecture constructed on hilly terrains with deep valleys. Upon arrival, we will be directed to our pousada. Accommodation. DAY 2 – Ouro Preto (B) In the morning we’ll make a walking historic tour in the beautiful Ouro Preto, which is known as an open-air museum. Uphill, downhill, the city´s colonial houses live with the excitement of the students of the Federal University and the community who comes to town for frequent events that take place in the region. We will see part of the immense wealth discovered in the area that was used to decorate important churches like Matriz do Pilar, 1733, a maximum example of Brazilian baroque. We`ll appreciate the Church of São Francisco, 1810, with panels, frames and painting on the ceiling of the Mestre Athaíde. Next we’ll visit a traditional urban mine. After the visit we return to the pousada. Free afternoon to do optional activities such as a visit to the Gold Mines and Mariana, or to walk the historic downtown of the city. Accommodation. DAY 3 – Ouro Preto (B) In the morning, we will leave Ouro Preto and on the way we stop in Congonhas, to see the Santuário de Bom Jesus de Matosinho, here we find one of Aleijadinho`s masterpieces, the set of sculptures named Doze Profetas. We continue to São João del Rei, where we will see monuments such as the Church of São Francisco with works and projects of Aleijadinho and landscaping of Burle Marx; the Matriz do Pilar and the region of Solares, where we find the Solar dos Neves from the former President of Brazil, Tancredo Neves; we can also appreciate the tin crafts. Next, we leave for Tiradentes, considered the most charming city of Minas Gerais and gastronomic capital of this state. It has a rich collection of the first half of the eighteenth century, in addition to housing one of the best restaurants in Brazil where we will have lunch (not included). After lunch we’ll return to Ouro Preto. Accommodation.
DAY 4 – Ouro Preto – Belo Horizonte – Destination (B) Transfer from Ouro Preto to the airport of Belo Horizonte for departure to our next destination. 2021 Price per person for services in US$: $451 with 2 people, $355 with 3, $352 with 4. Single supplement is $30. Triple room reduction is -$10. 1) For the following 2021 dates, hotel prices are ON REQUEST: Independence Day (04 to 07 Sep), Aparecida (Oct 9- 12), All Souls (Oct 30 to Nov 2), Proclamation of the Republic Day (Nov 13 to 15) and Christmas & New Year's eve (Dec 20 Dec to Jan 2).
2) For the following 2022 dates, hotel prices are ON REQUEST: New Year's Eve (Dec 30 to Jan 2), Carnival (Feb 25 to March 2), Easter Holidays (April 15 to 17), Tiradentes (April 21 to 24), Corpus Chisti (16 to 19 June), Independence Day (Sept 7), Aparecida (Oct 12 to 15), All Souls (Nov 2), Proclamation of the Republic Day (Nov 12 to 15) and Christmas & New Year's eve (Dec 20 Dec to Jan 2). Included:
Not Included:
Historic Cities Self-drive TourFor confirmed self-drive bookings, along with the Voucher we'll also send a manual with instructions, important notes, tips, routes and links to access the needed maps. Also we have a 24h number that customers can call if they need any assistance.
Day 1: Arrival in Belo Horizonte.
On your arrival, please go to the car rental shop at the airport to pick up your car. Self Drive to your Hotel. If you have time, we suggest a City Tour in Belo Horizonte. Belo Horizonte is the capital of Minas Gerais state and also is one of the most important political and economic city in Brazil. It has been recognized for its intensive artistic and cultural production. It is also known as a garden city. Overnight at hotel Quality Pampulha in superior room with breakfast Included: Car Rental , Room & Breakfast Day 2: Belo Horizonte / Tiradentes At the time of your preference, Self drive to Tiradentes (Around 220Km / 3.5 hours) Tiradentes is one of the most beautiful city in Minas Gerais because of baroque style constructions and the historic characteristic center. The city name is in honor of Joaquim José da silva Xavier nicknamed as Tiradentes. This is one of the main touristic pole in Minas Gerais state. The city has different kinds of events which attracts thousand tourists per year. Some of them are: the Movie Festival, Gastronomic Festival and National Meeting of Harley Davidson Motorcycle. There is a high handcraft quality work made by wood and iron. :: Principal Attractions: Church of Saint Anthony, Church of Our Lady of Rosary, Chamber House, Tour By Train Maria Fumaça. Overnight at Pousada Pouso das Gerais with breakfast Included: Car Rental , Room & Breakfast Day 3: Tiradentes / São João Del Rei / Tiradentes Tour to São Joao del Rei (Included) - Around 16km / 25 min. São João del Rei is a typical city in Minas Gerais, where it is possible to find numerous examples of colonial architecture. The rich architecture takes tourists to a golden time of “gold cycle”. The city participated in decisive moments in Minas Gerais and national political movement. Known as the place of the “bells talk”, São João del Rei is one of the most attractive cities in Minas Gerais. Overnight at Pousada Pouso das Gerais with breakfast Included: Car Rental , Room & Breakfast, Guide & tickets Day 4: Tiradentes / Congonhas / Ouro Preto At the proper time, self drive from Tiradentes to Ouro Preto. On the way we recommend a stop at Congonhas. (Tiradentes to Congonhas around 118Km / 2h10) Congonhas is known as Prophets City. The sanctuary of Bom Jesus and the works of art made by Antonio Francisco Lisboa (known as Aleijadinho) are recognized by Unesco as world Heritage Site. Aleijadinho carved twelve prophets in soap stone, now on the church terrace. He also carved images in cedar wood. It is distributed in six chapels which represent the Stations of the Cross. The baroque architecture reminds us of the golden time from “Gold Cycle” (with beautiful churches and houses). Continue the trip to Ouro Preto. (Around 56Km / 1h20). Overnight at Pousada do Mondego in standard room with breakfast. Included: Car Rental , Room & Breakfast Day 5: Ouro Preto & Mariana Tour of Ouro Preto and Mariana - Included (Around 15Km / 30 min) Ouro Preto is the first Brazilian city to be declared by Unesco as Worldwide Heritage Center. There is a rich colonial architecture, museums, baroque churches and works of arts made by Manuel da Costa Athayde and Antonio Francisco Lisboa. Walking on Ouro Preto slopes is like a journey back in the history of Brazil's dreams of liberty. Their Heroes and martyrs registered the political thought from that time and made history. Besides its exuberant architecture and instigating history, the city's typical gastronomy and handcrafts that are recognized around the world gives tourists a unique and fascinating experience. Mariana was the first village in Minas Gerais. Later on it was declared a town and upon being elevated to the status of city and then capital of Minas Gerais. Although it is simple, it is one of the most important cities of the gold circuit. The city has a rich architecture projected in baroque style. It is considered one of the most beautiful in Brazil and it has also work of arts made by Antonio Francisco Lisboa Overnight at Pousada do Mondego in standard room with breakfast. Included: Car Rental, Tour, Bilingual guide, Tickets, Room & Breakfast Day 6: Ouro Preto / Inhotim / Belo Horizonte We suggest to leave early in the morning to visit Ihotim (Around 109 Km / 2h10) Inhotim is contemporary Art Complex as well as the development of socio environment activities. It is a large area with various cultural and environment activities. Landscape design was planned by Burle Marx. Inhotim is the biggest botanical collection with rare species. It has Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes. Situated in the city of Brumadinho, the place is an invitation for all who appreciate contemporary art. It houses approximately 500 art samples from 100 Brazilian and international artists. Inhotim is recognized internationally. We suggest to buy your ticket online in advance. After the tour, self drive to Belo Horizonte (Around 63Km / 1h10). Overnight at hotel Quality Pampulha in superior room with breakfast Included: Car Rental , Room & Breakfast Day 7: Belo Horizonte Self drive to the Airport. At the airport, please go to the Car rental shop to return your car. RATES PER PERSON IN DOUBLE ROOM: USD 1025.00* *Rates may vary according to the chosen date *Consult us for upgrades or any other changes in your itinerary. NOT INCLUDED
IMPORTANT* This is only a quotation. Nothing is booked until this moment. Prices and availability may change without previous notice * Due to economic instability experienced by our country in recent times the prices shall be valid for 15 days from the date of quotation. * If the language of the guide or driver is not specified in the quote, please consider as Portuguese language. * For quotations with French or German speaking guide we recommend booking in advance as it is always subject to availability. THE CUSTOMER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING VISAS, VACCINES AND OTHER DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE TRIP. Please check with authorities about visa requirements for your nationality. ABOUT CONFIRMATION & CANCELLATION * All reservations should be requested and confirmed by e-mail. * Penalties applicable to cancellation of confirmed bookings: Before 30 days of travel: 20% penalty From 15 to 29 days before: 30% penalty From 07 to 14 days before: 50% penalty From 06 to no show: 100% penalty* * In case some of the commitments with third parties assumed by the agency are higher than the percentage established in the policy of cancellation, the contracting part will be responsible for this payment. *In case of cancellation of air tickets the fines and conditions to be applied will be established by each airline. ROOM TAXES * City Room Tax at hotels is NOT included and should be paid directly by guests upon checkout, unless otherwise requested upon booking (only charged at some Brazilian hotels - tax varies between US$3,00 and US$7,00 per room, per night). This tax is not obligatory and the guest can ask for it to be excluded from the bill at the hotel itself. |
The first capital and bishopric of Minas, Mariana was founded in 1711. Its principal attractions are the Archdiocesan Museum, the Carmo and Saint Francis churches and the Cathedral. On the road between Ouro Preto and Mariana lies the old Passagem gold mine which offers tours to visitors. Music lovers will not want to miss the concerts performed on the Cathedral's Arp Schnitger organ manufactured in 1701. They are given on Fridays at 11:00 AM and Sundays at 12:15 PM.
The former mining center of Congonhas is blessed with a major grouping of this brilliant sculptor's works: the twelve prophets sculpted in soapstone and the figures of the Stations of the Cross, completed from 1796 to 1799. The life-size sculptures constitute Brazil's most important artistic treasure. The architectonic and artistic complex of the Bom Jesus dos Matosinhos Basílica was recognized as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco in 1985. Congonhas was an important mining center and large fortunes were extracted from it. Some of the gold nuggets taken from the mine called Bataeiro (Potato Field) were the size of potatoes. The city also became famous in the 1960s because of the cures being performed by the medium called Zé Arigó, who incorporated the spirit of the German doctor, Fritz. People from every corner of Brazil and all over the world converged upon Congonhas in search of healing.
Although it lacks the rich architecture landmarks which abound in Ouro Preto, Tiradentes has plenty of colorful, harmonious colonial houses. The town seems to have been frozen in time, and attracts tourists seeking both peace and quiet cultural events. The town was practically forgotten between the end of the gold rush period and the 1970s, when business people from Rio helped restore the beautiful old houses. Soon the locals pitched in, and Tiradentes soon became a refuge for artists from Rio and São Paulo.
Estrada Real - GuidedThe Estrada Real is far more than your average road or average road-trip. Not only is this iconic Brazilian route world-famous for the incredible scenery, Atlantic forests and extraordinary places of historical interest along its course, but the very road itself has its own story to tell. Mapped out by the former colonial rulers who were looking to connect the gold producing regions surrounding Minas Gerais with the coast, this was a busy trade highway in its heyday. The 710 km of largely dirt roads which make up the Estrada Real are best explored in an unbreakable Overland 4WD vehicle for maximum comfort, with the journey beginning in the 17th century colonial town of Ouro Preto; one of the best examples of beautifully maintained ancient architecture to be found anywhere in Brazil. The road will continue on through the thriving forests of Serra da Mantiqueira and Serra do Mar, passing small settlements and no end of stunning viewpoints, overlooking the green valleys below. Finally, your journey climaxes at the coastal town of Paraty, known for its heavenly white beaches and all-too-appealing laid-back atmosphere!
DAY 1 – Origin – Belo Horizonte – Ouro Preto Airport arrival at Belo Horizonte and transfer to Ouro Preto, the crown jewel of the historical cities of Minas Gerais. Thanks to the fever for gold and diamonds there are numerous cities of colonial architecture built in this terrain of mountains and valleys. Upon arrival, we will move to our pousada, located in the historic center of the city. DAY 2 – Ouro Preto - Tiradentes (B) In the morning, we will go walking on a guided tour in Ouro Preto. We will visit the Church of São Francisco de Assis, the Matriz Nª Senhora do Pilar, the Church of Nª Senhora do Carmo, the Casa dos Contos (ancient foundry of Gold) and the Stones Museum. In the afternoon, we will leave for Tiradentes, starting our 4WD expedition by the historic Estrada Real route, stopping at the view points to observe the local mountain range. Once at Tiradentes, we will have a short tour to get to know the city before arriving at our accommodation. Then we’ll have free time to take a promenade around the town and visit craft shops and small restaurants. Our guide will provide interesting suggestions. Accommodation. DAY 3 – Tiradentes – Carrancas – Aiuruoca (B, D) In the morning, we will take a city tour through the city of Tiradentes, with guided tours to the main attractions as Santo Antônio´s Church, the Chafariz, and to the historic center. We will walk by the old cobbled alleyways, where we will find churches, chapels, museums and handicraft workshops. Driving along the Estrada Real in our 4WD vehicle up to Vale do Matutu, we will stop at Carrancas, known as the city of waterfalls. In addition to its ¨cachoeiras¨, we will visit there the Fazenda Traiatuba, and we will learn about its importance in colonial times. In the afternoon, we will arrive at Vale do Matutu, passing through the city of Aiuruoca, initiating then our entry into the Serra da Mantiqueira, at the Serra do Papagaio State Park. Dinner and accommodation. DAY 4 – Aiuruoca – Santo Antônio do Rio Grande – Mauá (B) After breakfast, we will have time to take a hike up to the peak Cabeça do Leão. Just before noon, we will go towards the city of Mauá, horizontally cutting part of the Serra da Mantiqueira, reaching the town of Santo Antônio do Rio Grande. There, we will visit a traditional farm that produces regional cheese and we will taste a sample of their products. We will reach Mauá by the Vale do Acantilado and then by the Vale das Flores, with its natural attractions. At night we will make a walk by Vila de Maringá, where we`ll be recommended to dine a typical dish made of local fish. Accommodation. DAY 5 – Mauá – Paraty (B) We leave to Paraty and, on our way, we visit a traditional chocolate factory. We will pass by the city of Cunha, and then we cut part of the Atlantic Forest by the Serra do Mar and through the antique Cunha-Paraty road, where we will enjoy the beautiful view of great part of Paraty Bay. We will make a stop to visit a Fazenda that produces ¨Cachaça¨ (sugarcane liquor). Arrival in Paraty and accommodation. DAY 6 – Paraty (B) In the morning, after having breakfast, we will make a half day tour hiking through the historic center of the city, through its main churches and colonial houses. Here we will discover the importance of this population’s past time in the history of Brazil. In the afternoon, we will have time to walk through the streets of Paraty, enjoying some of its typical restaurants with live music. Accommodation. DAY 7 – Paraty – Rio de Janeiro – Destination (B) Departure to Rio de Janeiro´s Airport in land transfer to board for the next destination. 2021-2022 price per person in US$:
1) For the following 2021 dates, hotel prices are ON REQUEST: Independence Day (04 to 07 Sep), Aparecida (Oct 9- 12), All Souls (Oct 30 to Nov 2), Proclamation of the Republic Day (Nov 13 to 15) and Christmas & New Year's eve (Dec 20 Dec to Jan 2).
2) For the following 2022 dates, hotel prices are ON REQUEST: New Year's Eve (Dec 30 to Jan 2), Carnival (Feb 25 to March 2), Easter Holidays (April 15 to 17), Tiradentes (April 21 to 24), Corpus Chisti (16 to 19 June), Independence Day (Sept 7), Aparecida (Oct 12 to 15), All Souls (Nov 2), Proclamation of the Republic Day (Nov 12 to 15) and Christmas & New Year's eve (Dec 20 Dec to Jan 2). Included:
Not Included:
USEFUL INFORMATION
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