Things To Do
in Nova Era
Nova Era is a small hilltop town in Minas Gerais, Brazil, located about 140 kilometers north of Belo Horizonte, offering scenic valley views and a relaxed pace. The town preserves colonial architecture with colorful façades and cobbled streets, inviting strolls between cafes and markets. It serves as a gateway to nearby historical routes and natural escapes, blending mining heritage with rural charm.
Visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality, hearty Minas Gerais cuisine, and opportunities to unwind in a scenic, less-traveled corner of the state.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Nova Era and check into a charming local pousada. Unwind with a traditional Brazilian breakfast featuring fresh fruits and local pastries. Take a leisurely stroll through the town to get acquainted with the vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the unique shops and artisan markets that highlight the region's culture. Visit the local museum to learn about the area's history and gold mining heritage. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café offering local delicacies.
As the sun sets, enjoy a picturesque view of the surrounding hills. Dine at a popular local restaurant and savor traditional Minas Gerais cuisine. Conclude the evening with a quiet walk, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Visit local artisans and craftspeople to see traditional techniques in action, from pottery to weaving. Participate in a workshop, gaining hands-on experience in creating your own souvenir. Enjoy a brunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
Take a guided tour of the historic colonial buildings and learn about the rich culture of Nova Era. Engage with local historians to understand the area's significance during Brazil's gold rush. Indulge in a light lunch at a cozy restaurant with a view of the town square.
Attend a cultural performance of regional music and dance, showcasing the heritage of Minas Gerais. Dinner will be served at a historic inn, where you can enjoy heartfelt local recipes. Wrap up the evening sharing stories with fellow travelers under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Local crafts souvenir | $3-15 |
| 🚎One-way local transit fare | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and authentic Minas Gerais cuisine
- Compact, walkable town center with historic charm
- Access to nature and nearby waterfalls
- Affordability and relaxed pace
- Good base for regional day trips
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Some services are basic and may require trips to BH or Ouro Preto
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
- Seasonal flooding or rains can disrupt some activities
- Smaller healthcare facilities in-town; may need to travel for specialized care
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Boa tarde" - Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Desculpe" - Sorry/Excuse me
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica?" - Where is...?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me recomendar um prato local?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
Places to Visit in Nova Era
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square framed by the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição and colorful façades, ideal for morning light.
Colorful streets and preserved colonial architecture provide vibrant backdrops for street photography.
Elevated viewpoint offering sweeping views of the valley and surrounding hills, especially at sunset.
Waterfall with natural pools and forested surroundings, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Nova Era
Nova Era Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of beans, cassava flour, pork, and eggs; best tried at a family-run restaurante.
Must-Try!
Brazilian cheese bread made with cassava flour; widely available for breakfast or snacks.
Cornmeal and bean stew often served with queijo minas, a comforting home-style dish.
Fresh Minas cheese; pair with guava jelly or doce de leite.
Slow-cooked beef with root vegetables common in home-cooking in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market selling produce, cheeses, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks on market days.
Open-air stalls offering regional snacks, fresh fruit, and handmade crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with bom dia/boa tarde; a handshake or a friendly kiss on the cheek may occur among locals; address older people as senhor/senhora.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and remove hats indoors.
Ask permission before photographing people in intimate settings; always respect private property.
Safety
Tipping in Nova Era
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in upscale restaurants if service charge is not included.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; cards are common in many shops and restaurants; mobile wallets are increasingly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry rain gear and sun protection; good light for landscapes.
Milder temperatures, pleasant evenings; less rainfall; good for city walks and photography in softer light.
Cool to mild days, cooler nights; layers recommended; clear skies often provide crisp views from lookouts.
Warming temperatures, flowering landscapes; ideal for outdoor activities and markets; watch for intermittent rain.
Nova Era at Night
Hiking in Nova Era
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with scenic overlooks and rock formations; day trips from Nova Era are common.
Multiple hiking options through waterfalls and canyons; a bit farther but a popular weekend escape.
Misty forest trails with wildlife and a historic colonial school; reachable by day trip.
Airports
How to reach Nova Era by plane.
A smaller airport closer to Belo Horizonte; serves domestic flights and is used primarily by smaller carriers.
Major international and domestic gateway (Confins); about 2.5-3.5 hours by road to Nova Era depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of longtime families, farmers, and younger residents who study and work in nearby cities.
Some commuting professionals and students travel to Belo Horizonte or Ouro Preto for education and work.
Visitors exploring historic towns and natural sites in the Serra do Mantiqueira region (local phrasing).
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region's most popular sport; locals cheer regional teams in local bars and at matches.
Common recreational sport in schools and clubs.
Popular for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the hills around Nova Era.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Era.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian-friendly options include arroz e feijão, milho, queijo minas, salads, and pão de queijo; mention 'sem carne' and check for lard or rinds in stews.