Things To Do
in Cambuquira
Cambuquira is a small spa town in southern Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its abundant mineral springs, gentle hills and a relaxed mountain-atmosphere. The town mixes historic colonial-era charm, simple pousadas (guesthouses) and parks built around drinking and bathing springs. Nature lovers come for short hikes, waterfalls and broad views of the Serra da Mantiqueira while food lovers enjoy hearty Minas Gerais cuisine and local sweets.
Cambuquira is compact and tranquil, making it ideal for a low-key weekend focused on wellness and scenic walks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
After arriving in Cambuquira, take some time to settle in at your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Stroll through the quaint streets to soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this charming town. A visit to the Parque das Águas is a perfect start, where you can explore the lush gardens and striking fountains.
In the afternoon, indulge in the renowned therapeutic waters that Cambuquira is famous for. Visit the local mineral water springs and perhaps even book a spa treatment to rejuvenate your body. As the sun begins to set, take a relaxing walk along the residential neighborhoods and observe the local architecture.
For dinner, try a traditional Brazilian restaurant serving regional specialties like feijoada. Enjoy the friendly local ambiance as you dine and reflect on your first day. After your meal, take a stroll to the town square, where you can listen to live music or watch the locals gather for a chat.
Start your day with a hike in the nearby Serra da Mantiqueira mountains, where the cool morning air awakens your senses. The trails offer stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Don’t forget to pack a picnic for later as you explore the natural beauty of the region.
After your hike, find a scenic spot to enjoy your picnic while surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, visit the nearby waterfalls where you can cool off and take in the tranquility. The afternoon is perfect for some photography as the sunlight plays through the trees.
Return to Cambuquira to freshen up and choose a restaurant with a view for dinner. Savor more local delicacies while reflecting on your adventurous day in nature. If you’re up for it, explore the nightlife in town, which often features live music and warm local hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-50 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus fare / short taxi | $0.50-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range pousada / hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxing spa-town atmosphere with mineral springs and wellness offerings
- Close access to scenic hikes, waterfalls and good nature photography
- Authentic Minas Gerais cuisine and small-town charm
- Compact and easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared with larger cities
- Fewer healthcare and specialized services — serious cases require travel to larger towns
- Public transport is limited; a car makes day trips easier
- Some businesses may be cash-only or have limited card infrastructure
- "Olá / Oi" - Hello / Hi
- "Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite" - Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you (male speaker/female speaker)
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica a fonte / o parque?" - Where is the spring / the park?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept card?
Places to Visit in Cambuquira
Visit one of these nice places.
Landscaped spring park with fountains, stone drinking troughs and signage — great for detailed shots of water features and relaxed park scenes.
Short climb to a hilltop cross or lookout offering sweeping views of Cambuquira and the Serra da Mantiqueira — ideal for sunrise or golden hour panoramas.
Colonial-style church façade, town square and adjoining streets provide classic small-town architecture and street photography opportunities.
Nearby cascades and forested trails give opportunities for long-exposure water shots, macro nature photography and woodland scenes.
Food in Cambuquira
Cambuquira Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Minas bean-and-flour mash often served with sausage, collard greens and rice; available in family restaurants and local 'comida mineira' eateries.
Must-Try!
Chicken stewed with okra, a regional favorite in Minas; look for it on lunch menus in town restaurants and pousadas.
Local sweets and fresh Minas cheese are ubiquitous — try these at bakeries, markets and as dessert at restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend markets and small street stalls sell fresh produce, cheeses, sweets and artisanal snacks — try pão de queijo, coxinha or a regional sweet while browsing local goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshakes or a single cheek kiss between acquaintances are common; use 'Senhor/Senhora' and polite forms with older people or in formal settings.
Dress is casual in town but modest in churches. Be respectful in quiet residential areas and near springs — avoid loud music and leave spaces clean.
Mineral springs and protected areas are valued locally; follow posted rules, avoid contaminating water sources and take trash with you.
Safety
Tipping in Cambuquira
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but customary in restaurants — an automatic 10% service (10% 'serviço') may be added to the bill; for taxis and small services, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated.
Cash (reais) is widely used, especially for small purchases and markets. Credit/debit cards are accepted at many restaurants and pousadas, but some small vendors may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town but not as plentiful as in larger cities — carry some cash for rural trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
(December–March) Warm and wet: expect afternoon showers and lush green landscapes ideal for waterfalls and birdlife; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes for muddy trails.
(April–May) Milder temperatures and drier days make for pleasant hiking and clearer skies; foliage is less dramatic than in temperate zones but colors and light are comfortable.
(June–August) Cool and dry nights with chilly mornings — daytime temperatures are mild but nights can be noticeably cold, so pack layers and a warm jacket.
(September–November) Warming temperatures and increased wildflowers; variable weather with occasional showers, good for photography and outdoor excursions.
Cambuquira at Night
Hiking in Cambuquira
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short local trail leading to a hilltop cross or viewpoint with panoramic views over Cambuquira and surrounding valleys; suitable for a sunrise or late-afternoon walk.
Gentle paths around the mineral-spring park ideal for easy walking, photography and sampling various springs.
Access to a network of trails in the broader Serra da Mantiqueira region for longer hikes, birdwatching and mountain scenery; routes vary in length and difficulty and may require a guide or vehicle to trailheads.
Unpaved access trails to nearby cascades and pools — best explored with local guidance, sturdy shoes and awareness of seasonal flow levels.
Airports
How to reach Cambuquira by plane.
Regional airport roughly 45–70 km away (drive time ~1–1.5 hours depending on route); convenient for regional flights and access to Cambuquira by car or taxi.
Major international airport serving Belo Horizonte, about 200–260 km away (3.5–4.5 hour drive). Many visitors fly into Confins and travel by rental car or bus to southern Minas Gerais.
For broader international connections, Campinas (VCP) or São Paulo airports are options but require a longer drive or connecting domestic flight to a regional airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Portuguese-speaking Brazilians with family ties to the region — a mix of European, Afro-Brazilian and indigenous ancestry common to Minas Gerais.
Cambuquira attracts older visitors and people seeking the mineral-spring spa experience, contributing to a quieter daytime crowd.
Weekend and holiday visitors from other parts of Minas Gerais and nearby states, especially during summer and festival weekends.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport nationwide and locally, played and watched in casual matches and community events.
Indoor futsal and community sports are popular for youth and recreational leagues.
Given the rolling terrain and quiet roads, trail running and cycling are common activities among locals and visitors seeking outdoor fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cambuquira.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in the form of cheese dishes, salads, rice and beans, and vegetable stews. Always ask (pergunte) for 'opções vegetarianas' in advance; small restaurants may adapt dishes but options are more limited than in big cities.
Vegan choices are more limited; bring snacks or be prepared to request simple rice, beans and vegetable sides. Larger pousadas or restaurants may accommodate with notice.
Traditional corn-based items (like some cakes) can be gluten-free, but breads and many processed foods contain wheat; communicate clearly and check ingredients in bakeries or at markets.