Things To Do
in Curvelo

Curvelo is a charming city located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. It serves as an important agricultural hub, surrounded by vast fields and rolling hills. The city is celebrated for its traditional festivals, especially the famous Festa de São Gonçalo, which showcases local music and dance.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of urban life and natural beauty, making Curvelo an inviting destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the historic Igreja de São Gonçalo, a stunning church that represents the city's colonial architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museu de Curvelo to learn about the city's history and culture, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional mineira cuisine.

evening
:

Take a stroll through the city center, visit local shops, and savor dinner at a popular eatery, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Curvelo at night.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the Parque Municipal do Rio Araçuaí for a morning hike, enjoying the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, then visit a local farm to learn about agriculture and perhaps participate in some hands-on activities.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a well-known pizzeria and finish the night with live music at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3
🚕Taxi ride (5 km)$5
🛒Groceries (weekly)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine to explore.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Curvelo

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja de São Gonçalo

A historical church with beautiful architecture, perfect for capturing both exterior and interior details.

Parque Municipal do Rio Araçuaí

A scenic park featuring natural landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Cascata do Rio São Gonçalo

A picturesque waterfall located just outside the city, offering stunning views and vibrant nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Curvelo

Curvelo offers a delightful culinary experience that highlights the flavors of Minas Gerais, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Curvelo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made from tapioca flour, a popular snack in Minas Gerais.

Must-Try!

Feijão Tropeiro

A hearty dish made with beans, eggs, bacon, and manioc flour.

Doce de Leite

A sweet milk caramel that is a staple dessert in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant local market held on weekends, offering fresh produce, handicrafts, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Curvelo experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and frequent rain showers. Winters are cooler and drier, with temperatures dropping to around 15°C (59°F) at night. The transitional seasons of autumn and spring bring mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Dress Code

Dress tends to be casual, but it's respectful to dress neatly when dining at restaurants.

Respect for Traditions

Participating in local festivals and respecting cultural norms is appreciated by the community.

Safety Guide

Safety

Curvelo is generally considered safe for tourists, but common precautions should be observed. Avoid displaying valuable items in public, and be cautious while exploring less crowded areas at night. It's advisable to stay updated on local news and seek advice from locals regarding safe neighborhoods.

Tipping in Curvelo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, though it may already be included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Hot and humid with occasional rain; perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the local parks.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures and less humidity; ideal for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Winter (June to August)

Cool and dry; a great time for festivals and indoor cultural experiences.

Spring (September to November)

Warm with blooming flowers; perfect for photography and enjoying nature.

Nightlife Guide

Curvelo at Night

Curvelo's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of local bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. The city has a strong tradition of music, especially sertanejo (country music), with many places hosting live performances on weekends. Popular spots include local taverns where you can enjoy drinks and socialize with locals. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy for visitors to mingle and experience the local culture.

Hiking in Curvelo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Serra do Cipó

A scenic hiking trail located about 30 km from Curvelo, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and diverse wildlife.

Caminho do Ouro

This historic trail follows the path of gold miners and provides a mix of natural beauty and historical significance.

Airports

How to reach Curvelo by plane.

Governador Orozimbo de Almeida Airport (CUR)

Located about 15 km from Curvelo, this airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as the nearest air travel hub.

Getting Around

Walkability

Curvelo is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, and the pace of life is relaxed, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions outside the city center may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Agricultural Workers

A significant portion of Curvelo's population is engaged in agriculture, contributing to the local economy.

Cultural Enthusiasts

Many residents are involved in preserving and promoting local traditions, arts, and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Curvelo, with local teams and community matches often taking place.

Volleyball

Volleyball is a popular sport enjoyed in parks and schools, with many locals participating in casual games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Curvelo is typically light, making it easy to navigate the city by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but schedules may vary, so it's important to check local timetables. Overall, commuting within the city is straightforward and convenient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Curvelo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Some traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, but always inquire about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Curvelo includes several public and private hospitals and clinics. The quality of care is generally good, but for serious medical conditions, patients may need to travel to larger cities like Belo Horizonte. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide