Things To Do
in Lavras
Lavras is a university town in Minas Gerais known for the Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA) and its surrounding green hills. The city blends academic life with a relaxed, small-town vibe and access to natural areas just beyond the urban core. Traditional Minas Gerais cuisine, friendly locals, and a hillside landscape characterize the region.
Nearby parks, lakes, and trails make Lavras a convenient base for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Praça Dr. Augusto Silva, the heart of Lavras, where the colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Brazilian pastries like pão de queijo and a strong cup of coffee. Wander through the surrounding streets, admiring the beautiful churches and historical buildings that date back to the 19th century.
After lunch at a quaint restaurant featuring regional dishes, take a guided tour of the Museu Histórico de Lavras to delve deeper into the city's rich history. Stroll through the nearby Parque das Águas, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. As the afternoon progresses, consider visiting local artisan shops to pick up unique handicrafts as souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can indulge in Lavras' famous feijoada, a hearty black bean stew. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk around the illuminated Praça Dr. Augusto Silva, where you can enjoy live music or street performances. Conclude your evening with a dessert stop at a local gelateria, sampling flavors inspired by Brazilian fruits.
Begin your day with an early trip to the nearby Serra do Ouro, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse bird species. Equip yourself with binoculars and a field guide, and set off on a guided nature walk where you can spot colorful tropical birds and learn about local flora. The fresh morning air and the sounds of nature create the perfect backdrop for this immersive experience.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch in the serene environment of the park, taking in the breathtaking views. Continue your adventure with a hike along one of the well-marked trails, where you can experience the rich biodiversity of the region. Be sure to take plenty of photos as you encounter picturesque waterfalls and panoramic vistas.
Return to Lavras in the early evening, where you can enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local cuisine at a rustic restaurant. After dinner, take a stroll through the town, perhaps stopping at a bar to taste some local craft beer or cachaça. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make for a delightful end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $20-60 |
| 🚶Public transit one-way fare | $0.50-2 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- University-town appeal with green spaces
- Access to regional cuisine and authentic Minas Gerais experiences
- Friendly locals and hospitality
- Close proximity to nature and hiking
- Limited big-city nightlife
- Fewer direct international flight options
- Public transit within the city is modest; travel outside the city can require a car
- "Oi, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Você pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Lavras
Visit one of these nice places.
Old-world streets, colonial-inspired facades, and a bustling main square provide classic city photography opportunities.
A mix of green spaces, ponds, and modern university architecture ideal for campus and nature shots.
Scenic overlooks around the city and nearby water features offer sunset and wide-angle photo opportunities.
Food in Lavras
Lavras Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy bean paste layered with cornmeal and often topped with queijo Minas; a comforting Minas staple.
Must-Try!
Rice with beans, cassava flour, collard greens, and sausage or bacon; a flavorful, filling dish typical of the region.
Cheese-filled bread rolls made with cassava flour; perfect as a snack or breakfast.
Fresh Minas cheese enjoyed with bread or as part of various dishes; guides you to the local dairy traditions.
Sweet milk caramel spread, often enjoyed with coffee or simply on its own as a dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, and breads; a great place to sample everyday snacks.
Weekly street markets with fruits, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats; ideal for budget-friendly meals and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde,' and use polite forms (senhor/senhora) with adults. Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Lavras
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% is common in nicer restaurants if service charge isn’t included. Cash or card are widely accepted; rounding up a bill is a common courtesy in casual spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with occasional showers; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Lavras at Night
Hiking in Lavras
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hill trails just outside Lavras offering viewpoints and forested paths.
Scenic routes with waterfalls and green landscapes; suitable for day hikes.
Accessible loops with panoramic views of Lavras and the surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Lavras by plane.
Major international gateway about 230–270 km away by road.
Regional airport about 120–180 km away.
Regional airport about 190–260 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of residents are students and staff from UFLA.
A mix of urban families and rural communities in the surrounding region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town, with local matches and informal games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lavras.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places—focus on beans, grains, rice, and vegetables; many pão de queijo varieties can be dairy-based. When dining out, ask for dishes prepared without lard or meat-based stock.