Things To Do
in Coromandel

Coromandel is a small, friendly city in Minas Gerais surrounded by rolling hills and green Cerrado landscapes. The town acts as a quiet gateway to nature, with colonial-era architecture in its compact center and a relaxed pace of life. Locals are known for hospitality, traditional mineiro cuisine, and regional crafts that reflect the area's history of farming and mining.

Year-round, visitors come to enjoy hiking, waterfalls, and easy day trips to nearby parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries and strong coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Coromandel’s historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Don’t forget to visit the local artisan shops to pick up handcrafted souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in the region's famous dishes featuring fresh seafood and local produce. Post-lunch, explore the Museu de Coromandel, learning about the rich cultural heritage and history of the area through fascinating exhibits. Take a relaxing walk around the main square, where you can interact with friendly locals and soak in the atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a cozy bar to enjoy a refreshing caipirinha while listening to live music. Dine at a local steakhouse renowned for its grilled meats, where you can experience the flavors of Brazilian barbecue. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful night views of the town.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day at Praia do Canto, one of the most beautiful beaches in Coromandel, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline, getting a unique perspective of the stunning landscape. Take a moment to relax on the soft sand, soaking up the sun while enjoying the sound of the waves.

afternoon
:

After a fun-filled morning, grab lunch at a beachfront restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes while gazing at the ocean. Spend your afternoon trying out some exciting water sports, such as jet-skiing or windsurfing, for an adrenaline rush. Alternatively, unwind with a beach volleyball game with fellow travelers and locals.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a beachfront barbecue where the aroma of grilled seafood fills the air. Watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors as you dine, creating a picturesque backdrop for your meal. Finish your day with a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with new friends under the starlit sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
🏨Hotel per night$25-60
🚕Local transportation/taxi ride$2-6
Coffee or snack$1-4
🎟️Museum or park entrance$2-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm pace of life and friendly locals
  • Central location for exploring Minas Gerais countryside
  • Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
  • Rural transport options can be slow or infrequent
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o [local]?" - Where is the [place]?

Places to Visit in Coromandel

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça da Matriz and Igreja de São Sebastião

Historic square with colorful colonial façades and a centuries-old church, perfect for daytime and golden-hour photography.

Mirante da Serra

Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding Cerrado hills.

Ribeira do Coromandel Riverwalk

Waterfront spots along the river with reflections and soft lighting at sunset.

Historic Center Street Portraits

Cobblestone lanes and pastel doors provide great street photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coromandel

Coromandel's cuisine reflects Minas Gerais traditions: hearty, comforting dishes centered on beans, corn, queijo minas and slow-cooked meats, all enjoyed in a friendly, family-oriented setting.

Coromandel Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Feijão Tropeiro

A hearty mix of beans, farinha de mandioca, eggs, sausage or bacon, and herbs; a Minas Gerais staple often served with rice and carne de panela.

Must-Try!

Tutu de Milho

Creamy ground corn sustains with a rustic sabor, typically accompanied by eggs, pork, or queijo minas.

Pão de Queijo com Café

Warm queijo pão de queijo enjoyed with a strong Brazilian coffee, a classic MG pairing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Coromandel

A hub for fresh produce, queijo Minas, local pastries, and everyday groceries; great for sampling regional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coromandel has a tropical savanna climate with hot summers, a distinct rainy season, and cooler, dry winters. Average highs range from 25-32°C in the wet season and 20-28°C in the dry season; nights can be cooler in the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Begin conversations with a friendly greeting (Olá, bom dia) and say please and thank you. Use Senhor/Senhora with older people.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice standard travel safety: keep valuables secure, beware of petty theft in crowded areas, drive carefully on rural roads, and use reputable transport options at night. In emergencies dial 190 (police) or 192 (SUS).

Tipping in Coromandel

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included. Small tips to bellhops or housekeeping are appreciated in hotels.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and less rain; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.

Winter

Cooler evenings with milder days; layer clothing and expect some chilly mornings in higher places.

Spring

Warming weather and flowering landscapes; great for hikes and markets.

Nightlife Guide

Coromandel at Night

The nightlife in Coromandel tends to be relaxed and family-friendly, with bars offering live MPB and samba on weekends; expect small venues, casual atmospheres, and occasional folk music performances rather than large dance clubs.

Hiking in Coromandel

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerrado hillside trail to vista point

Short to moderate trail with expansive views of the surrounding hills.

Riverside path along the Itapecerica River

Easy walk with shaded areas and birdlife.

Airports

How to reach Coromandel by plane.

Belo Horizonte/Confins International Airport (CNF)

Major international and domestic gateway about a few hours' drive from Coromandel; use a taxi or shuttle to reach the city.

Belo Horizonte/Pampulha–Carlos Drummond de Andrade Airport (PLU)

Smaller airport serving regional flights; may be used for domestic trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coromandel's compact historic center is walkable, with most attractions and eateries within easy reach. For longer trips to rural trails or natural spots, you'll likely need a car or local taxi; some outskirts are less pedestrian-friendly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban families

Residents who work in services and commerce in the city center.

Rural workers

People involved in agriculture and small-scale farming in the surrounding areas.

Retirees

Older residents enjoying a quiet lifestyle and daytime community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (futebol)

The most popular sport; watch local leagues and play in public fields.

Futsal

Indoor football played in gyms and clubs; common in schools and neighborhoods.

Volleyball

Popular in schools and beachside areas during warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the town center but rural roads can be winding and slower. Public transport exists but options may be limited outside peak hours; many visitors rent a car or hire taxis for day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coromandel.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy queijo minas, rice and beans, salads, and vegetable-based dishes; many places will accommodate with simple vegetable stews and sautéed greens—ask for “vegetariano” options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in Coromandel with clinics and a municipal hospital; for more advanced care, residents typically travel to larger centers in Belo Horizonte or neighboring towns; carry insurance and keep emergency numbers handy.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

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