Things To Do
in Lagoa Santa

Lagoa Santa is a picturesque town located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich historical significance. It is famous for its beautiful lagoons, including the Lagoa Santa itself, which attracts both locals and tourists for leisure activities. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

With its mild climate and friendly atmosphere, Lagoa Santa is a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Lagoa Santa Lagoon, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline and take in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

Head to the Gruta da Lapinha, a nearby cave system known for its unique rock formations and archaeological significance. Guided tours are available for a deeper understanding of the site.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Restaurante Lagoa, where you can savor traditional Brazilian dishes while overlooking the lagoon.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Museu Arqueológico de Lagoa Santa to learn about the area's rich history and its prehistoric inhabitants. The museum features fascinating artifacts and exhibits.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the town center, exploring local shops and artisan markets, where you can purchase handmade souvenirs and regional crafts.

evening
:

Experience a vibrant evening at a local bar, such as Bar do Juca, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Cup of coffee$3
🚕Taxi ride (5 km)$5
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$40
🎟️Entrance fee to museums$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with picturesque lagoons and mountains.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Variety of outdoor activities and experiences.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier can be a challenge for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry

Places to Visit in Lagoa Santa

Visit one of these nice places.

Lagoa Santa Lagoon

Capture stunning sunsets and serene morning reflections on the water.

Gruta da Lapinha

Photograph the breathtaking cave formations and archaeological artifacts.

Pico do Ibitipoca

An elevated viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lagoa Santa

Lagoa Santa offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture of Minas Gerais.

Lagoa Santa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

A popular cheese bread made from tapioca flour, often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item.

Must-Try!

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, bacon, eggs, and manioc flour, typically served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant open-air market held on weekends, offering fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lagoa Santa enjoys a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters are cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). Rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, particularly from December to February, while the dry season occurs from May to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet people with a smile.

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable, but locals may dress more formally when dining out.

Respect for Nature

Always respect the local environment by not littering and following designated paths during outdoor activities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lagoa Santa is generally a safe destination for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep valuables secure. It's also advisable to stay informed about local safety conditions and follow advice from locals or your accommodation staff.

Tipping in Lagoa Santa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, although it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and swimming in the lagoon.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures and less humidity, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures, but still enjoyable for outdoor activities; bring a light jacket for evenings.

Spring (September to November)

Temperatures start to rise, flowers bloom, and the landscape becomes vibrant, making it a beautiful time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Lagoa Santa at Night

Lagoa Santa's nightlife is relatively relaxed, offering a mix of bars and local music venues. Many establishments feature live music during the weekends, showcasing local talents playing genres like samba and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira). The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize with locals and fellow travelers. While not overly bustling, the nightlife provides a unique cultural experience for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Lagoa Santa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Cruzeiro

A moderate hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of Lagoa Santa and the surrounding mountains, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Trilha da Gruta da Lapinha

An adventurous trail leading to the Gruta da Lapinha, combining hiking with opportunities to explore unique geological features.

Airports

How to reach Lagoa Santa by plane.

Aeroporto Internacional Tancredo Neves (CNF)

Located approximately 15 km from Lagoa Santa, this international airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lagoa Santa is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate on foot, and the scenic views enhance the walking experience. However, some outdoor locations and hiking trails may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Brazilian families, with a mix of descendants from various cultural backgrounds.

Tourists

Visitors from different regions of Brazil and abroad, looking to explore the natural beauty and culture of Lagoa Santa.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Lagoa Santa, with local teams and community matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is commonly played at the lagoon, where locals and visitors alike enjoy friendly matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lagoa Santa is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses, which can be infrequent but are economical for getting around. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for more convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lagoa Santa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free

While options may be limited, some local dishes like rice and beans are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Lagoa Santa is adequate, with several clinics and hospitals available for common medical needs. Most healthcare facilities are equipped to handle basic medical situations, but for specialized care, travelers may need to visit larger cities like Belo Horizonte. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health-related issues.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide