Januária

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Januária's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and traditional Brazilian pastries. Afterward, venture out to the historic center of Januária, where you can admire the stunning architecture of colonial buildings and the iconic Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição. Take your time to stroll around the vibrant streets, soaking in the local culture and atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Museu do Sertão to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste local specialties such as carne de sol and feijão tropeiro. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Praça do Comércio, a lively square perfect for people-watching and enjoying local street performances.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant that offers a view of the São Francisco River. Indulge in a delicious dinner featuring fresh river fish and regional dishes while listening to the sounds of local music. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the riverbank, where you can enjoy the serene ambiance and beautiful views.

day 2
Adventure at the São Francisco River
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting out for a day by the São Francisco River. Join a guided boat tour that allows you to explore the river's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, including various bird species. Keep your camera ready as you glide past lush greenery and picturesque views along the banks.

afternoon
:

After some time on the water, enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the river's sandy beaches, surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, engage in activities such as swimming, kayaking, or fishing, making the most of the beautiful surroundings. Take a moment to relax and soak up the sun on the beach before heading back to town.

evening
:

Return to Januária in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a local churrascaria, where you can enjoy a feast of grilled meats and traditional sides. After dinner, stroll through the town center, where you can find local artisans selling crafts and souvenirs. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for live music and a taste of regional drinks like cachaça.

day 3
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the bustling local market, where you can see vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and traditional foods. Engage with the friendly locals as you explore the vibrant stalls filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods. Don't forget to try some local snacks and drinks as you wander through the market.

afternoon
:

After your market adventure, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Spend your afternoon visiting a few artisan workshops, where you can see craftsmen at work creating unique pieces of art and pottery. Participate in a workshop if available, allowing you to create your own souvenir to take home.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local eatery renowned for its home-style cooking. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the lively atmosphere and illuminated streets. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local festival or event showcasing traditional music and dance.

day 4
Natural Wonders at Serra da Canastra
morning
:

Early in the morning, embark on a scenic drive to the Serra da Canastra National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided hike through the park, taking in stunning views and learning about the region's unique ecosystem. Keep an eye out for native animals such as capybaras and various bird species.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the park's natural beauty, taking in the fresh air and tranquility of the area. In the afternoon, visit the famous Casca D'Anta waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below. Spend some time relaxing by the waterfall, capturing the beauty of your surroundings.

evening
:

As you make your way back to Januária, stop at a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Upon returning to town, take a moment to enjoy the clear night sky, perhaps even catching a glimpse of the stars. Wrap up your day with a quiet evening reflecting on the beauty you've experienced.

day 5
Exploring Local History and Culture
morning
:

After breakfast, visit the local historical museum to learn more about the history of Januária and the surrounding region. Engage with interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the area’s development and cultural significance over the years. Spend some time in the museum's gift shop, where you can find books and crafts related to the local history.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try a popular local restaurant that serves traditional dishes, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the local culinary scene. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the town, visiting significant landmarks and learning about their stories from a knowledgeable local guide. Stop by the charming art galleries that feature works by local artists, appreciating the creativity of the region.

evening
:

In the evening, dine at a restaurant that specializes in fusion cuisine, blending traditional Brazilian flavors with modern culinary techniques. Enjoy a leisurely meal while listening to live music that reflects the local culture. After dinner, consider joining a cultural event or workshop to experience local traditions and crafts firsthand.

day 6
Relaxation and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel, focusing on healthy options to energize your body. Afterward, head to a local spa or wellness center for a morning of relaxation with massages and treatments inspired by traditional Brazilian techniques. Take time to unwind in the tranquil setting, allowing the cares of the world to melt away.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a nourishing meal at a health-focused café, where you can sample fresh salads and juice blends. Spend your afternoon at a nearby natural hot spring, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by nature. Engage in some light yoga or meditation to enhance your relaxation experience.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation for a rejuvenating evening, perhaps enjoying a light dinner with fresh, local ingredients. Spend the evening reflecting on your wellness journey, writing in a journal or simply meditating on the day's experiences. If you feel up to it, take a gentle walk around the area to close out your day peacefully.

day 7
Exploring Local Flora and Fauna
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of exploration. Head to a nearby botanical garden or nature reserve to discover the diverse plant life and ecosystems that thrive in the region. Take a guided tour to learn about the native flora and fauna, and enjoy the vibrant colors and scents of the garden.

afternoon
:

After your morning exploration, enjoy lunch at a café that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoon visiting a conservation project or wildlife sanctuary, where you can learn about efforts to protect endangered species native to the area. Participate in an educational session or volunteer opportunity, contributing to the local community's conservation efforts.

evening
:

For dinner, select a restaurant known for its sustainable practices, where you can enjoy meals made from ethically sourced ingredients. After your meal, consider attending a local presentation or talk about the region's biodiversity and conservation efforts. Spend your evening reflecting on the importance of protecting the natural wonders you've encountered during your day.

day 8
Historical Train Ride and Scenic Views
morning
:

Start your day early with breakfast before boarding a historic train that takes you through the beautiful countryside surrounding Januária. As you travel, admire the stunning landscapes and get a glimpse into the daily life of the rural communities. Listen to onboard commentary about the history of the railway and its significance to the region.

afternoon
:

Once you arrive at your destination, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming café that offers panoramic views of the countryside. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint town, visiting its local shops and perhaps a small museum that showcases its history. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the town's historical significance and architectural features.

evening
:

Return to Januária on the train, where you can reflect on the day's experiences and enjoy the sunset views. Upon returning, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional delicacies. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and mingling with locals.

day 9
Culinary Workshop and Tasting Experience
morning
:

After breakfast, join a local chef for a morning culinary workshop, where you'll learn how to prepare traditional dishes of the region. Engage hands-on in preparing ingredients, learning about the flavors and techniques that define Brazilian cuisine. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow participants as you cook together.

afternoon
:

Once your creations are complete, sit down for a communal lunch, tasting the dishes you’ve prepared alongside other local specialties. In the afternoon, visit a nearby farm or market to learn about the ingredients that go into traditional dishes, perhaps even participating in a foraging session for fresh herbs and vegetables. This experiential learning will deepen your appreciation of the local culinary culture.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary journey with a dinner that highlights the best dishes from the workshop, perhaps paired with local wines or cachaça. Spend your evening reflecting on your cooking experience, sharing recipes with new friends made during the day. If time allows, consider attending a local food festival or event to further explore the flavors of the region.

Discover Januária

Read more in our Januária 2025 Travel Guide.

Januária Travel Guide