A Day Visiting The Biggest Gold Mine In The World

If it were only one mine it would already be an amazing ride. But this is the largest gold mine open to visitors in the world. You can't be afraid of adventure, after all, you will descend into the underground galleries carried on a mine cart along 315 meters of rails. Down there 35 tons of gold came out, but today you can see crystal clear water and impressive galleries. The even more adventurous can also dive into the mine lake, paying extra for the activity. Tour are only in Portuguese, but you can enjoy the scenery. Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 09:00 – 16:00 Saturday – Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00

Between the small cobblestone streets opens up the Minas Gerais square, where Mariana's main church is located. Such as in all parts of Mariana, they are decorated by the lush mountains on the background. Find a place to park your car at the street to explore the square and the surrenders by foot.

The town hall and jail is only a few steps away from the main church. Entrance is free and you will be impressed by how photogenic the place is: huge doors and big windows show a view of the town with the historic houses surrounded by mountains. But the visit goes beyond that: there is still original period furniture and historic paintings.

Now that you have seen so many churches in the area, you will notice that this one is very different in style from the others, with its brown exterior and hilltop setting. Despite being from the 18th century, it is one of the most preserved and exuberant in the entire region. Take advantage of the free parking in front of the church. Opening hours: Monday: closed Tuesday – Sunday: 09:00 – 12:00 and 13:00 – 17:00

If you have not yet tasted the açaí in Brazil, this is the time. Stop for an açaí on Rua Direita, Mariana's historic main street. You can sit at the little wooden tables inside or do as the Brazilians do and eat standing outside, looking at the view of the city. Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:00 – 19:00 Sunday: 13:00 – 20:00

Stop in the city of Itabirito, still on the historic route, to try the most famous pastel of the region. Nilda makes them at home, on the spot, and serves them hot and fresh. There are many flavors and a fair price. Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 07:00 – 19:00 Saturday: 07:00 – 17:00 Sunday: 08:00 – 11:00

In this open and cozy space, with wooden furniture, you will feel the tranquility of the countryside. Vegetable garden, a lagoon, trails, and animals like rabbits and chickens form the scenery of this restaurant, where you will eat the typical food of Minas Gerais while listening to live Brazilian music and unforgettable flavors. Ask for the restaurant's fruit caipirinha to celebrate the good life. Opening hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 – 16:00 Friday – Sunday: 11:30 - 17:00

Belo Horizonte means beautiful horizon in Portuguese, and not for nothing. The city of hills and mountains is full of viewpoints. Go to this place nicknamed Praça do Papa (Pope's Square) to understand why Belo Horizonte is so beloved: you will see the whole city at your feet, the surrounding nature, and the many residents who bring their children to play in the square or meet there after playing sports. Wait for the sunset to have a perfect end of the day.

Belo Horizonte is the city known for its bars and nightlife. If you are in Belo Horizonte you need to go to a bar and ask for a "chope", draft beer which comes creamy and with plenty of foam. This bar also serves good meat. Then you will have experienced everything the state has to offer before going back home.

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