Things To Do
in Campos Altos
Campos Altos is a small mountain town in Minas Gerais, perched in the Serra da Mantiqueira. The town blends rural charm with a tight-knit community and scenic hillside panoramas. Surrounding landscapes feature forests, farms, and coffee and dairy farming, cooled by higher altitude air.
It’s a welcoming gateway for nature lovers and travelers seeking authentic Minas Gerais culture away from the crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming Praça do Mercado, where you can enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of Campos Altos. Don't miss the iconic Igreja Matriz de São João Batista, a stunning church that showcases the town's rich history.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant serving regional dishes, head to the Museu Municipal, where you can delve into the local culture and heritage through fascinating exhibits. Wander through the picturesque streets, stopping at artisan shops to pick up unique handmade souvenirs. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy outdoor spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
As night falls, immerse yourself in the local culinary scene with dinner at a popular churrascaria, where you can savor delicious grilled meats. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant town square, where you might catch a local performance or cultural event. Conclude your evening with a dessert from a local bakery, indulging in traditional Brazilian sweets.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Serra do Canastra National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Engage with nature as you explore well-marked trails, each leading to stunning viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. Keep your camera ready to capture the rich flora and fauna that inhabit this beautiful region.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of the park. Spend the afternoon visiting the famous Casca D'Anta waterfall, where you can take a dip in the cool waters or simply admire the cascading falls from a safe distance. Look out for the unique wildlife that calls this area home, including rare birds and playful monkeys.
Return to Campos Altos and refresh yourself at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Choose a local restaurant that specializes in Minas Gerais cuisine, savoring dishes like pão de queijo and feijão tropeiro. To wrap up the day, enjoy a quiet evening stroll through the town, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline per liter | $1-2.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain landscapes
- Genuine small-town Brazilian culture
- Authentic local food scene
- Accessible nature and hiking trails
- Limited nightlife options
- Fewer tourist infrastructure and services than bigger cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Tudo bem?" - How are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Campos Altos
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic view over Campos Altos and the surrounding valleys, ideal for sunrise photography.
Historic streets with colonial façades and colorful doors perfect for street photography.
Nearby waterfall trail with mossy rocks and lush forest; great for nature shots and long exposures.
Food in Campos Altos
Campos Altos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft fresh Minas cheese that pairs beautifully with bread and regional honey; widely available at markets and cafés.
Must-Try!
Warm, cheesy gluten-free bread balls that are a breakfast staple in Minas Gerais.
Rice and beans with cassava flour, sausage or bacon, collard greens, and eggs—comfort food classic.
Sweet milk caramel used in desserts and as a filling for pastries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with friendly greetings; saying 'olá' and 'tudo bem?' is common in daily interactions.
Dress modestly for churches and religious sites; remove hats indoors and show respect in solemn settings.
Safety
Tipping in Campos Altos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at restaurants if service is good and not included in the bill.
Cash (BRL) and cards are widely accepted in town; PIX is popular for digital payments; some rural venues may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent showers; carry a light rain jacket and plan hikes for early morning or late afternoon.
Cooler and drier in many years; nights can be quite chilly, so bring layers and a warm jacket.
Campos Altos at Night
Hiking in Campos Altos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Day hikes along ridgelines with panoramic valley views.
A series of short hikes to waterfalls and forested swimming holes.
Airports
How to reach Campos Altos by plane.
Major international gateway; about a few hours by road from Campos Altos.
City airport closer to Belo Horizonte; domestic connections to regional destinations.
Regional airport offering domestic connections; farther but useful for connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of agricultural workers, retirees, and longtime residents.
Some locals study in nearby cities and return when possible.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played widely in streets and local clubs.
Common in rural areas for recreation and exploring trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campos Altos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for milho, legumes, queijo, and veggie dishes; ask for 'sem carne' or 'sem carne animal' when ordering.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (queijo, salads); request 'sem trigo' or 'sem glúten' where needed.