Things To Do
in Ponte Nova

Ponte Nova is a charming municipality located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The town is situated on the banks of the Piranga River, offering beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. Ponte Nova is also famous for its vibrant festivals, especially those celebrating local traditions and cuisine.

With a friendly community and welcoming environment, it serves as a perfect gateway to explore the natural beauty of Minas Gerais.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Praça do Rosário, a central square where you can enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museu Histórico de Ponte Nova to learn about the city's history and culture before heading to the Mercado Municipal to experience local shopping.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Restaurante e Pizzaria Churrascão, where you can savor delicious Brazilian barbecued meats followed by a stroll along the riverbank.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at Parque Natural Municipal do Rio Piranga, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Cachoeira do Salto, a stunning waterfall perfect for a refreshing dip and photography opportunities.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a relaxing dinner at O Pescador, known for its seafood dishes and a cozy atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$8
🥖Pão de Queijo$1
🚕Taxi Ride (3km)$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine that reflects regional traditions.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may lack English-speaking locals.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent and less reliable.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Ponte Nova

Visit one of these nice places.

Cachoeira do Salto

A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Praça do Rosário

The central square featuring beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant local life.

Rio Piranga

The riverbank offers picturesque views, especially during sunset, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ponte Nova

Ponte Nova offers a delightful culinary experience rooted in Minas Gerais traditions, featuring a variety of local dishes, street food, and vibrant markets.

Ponte Nova Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, sausage, eggs, and manioc flour, often enjoyed as a hearty meal.

Must-Try!

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread that is crispy on the outside and chewy inside, a must-try snack or breakfast item.

Doce de Leite

A sweet caramel-like dessert made from milk and sugar, often used in pastries and cakes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Ponte Nova

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.

Street vendors at Praça do Rosário

Various stalls offering local snacks like coxinha and pastéis.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ponte Nova experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 25-35°C (77-95°F). Winters are cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 10-25°C (50-77°F). Rainfall is heaviest from December to February, making spring and autumn ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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

Respecting Personal Space

Brazilians are generally warm, but it's important to respect personal space while conversing.

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable, but dressing nicely is appreciated in restaurants and social settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ponte Nova is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings. Emergency numbers, including police (190) and medical services (192), are readily available. Always stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.

Tipping in Ponte Nova

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants; rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September to November)

Mild temperatures and blooming flora make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer (December to February)

Hot and humid, with occasional rains; perfect for swimming and enjoying rivers.

Autumn (March to May)

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter (June to August)

Cool and dry; visitors can enjoy clear skies and pleasant weather for exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Ponte Nova at Night

Ponte Nova offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a few bars and live music venues. Local bars serve drinks and snacks, often featuring live samba or forró music. The ambiance is friendly and relaxed, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Ponte Nova

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Ferro

A popular hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for all skill levels.

Caminho da Serra

A scenic trail that leads through lush forests and hills, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Airports

How to reach Ponte Nova by plane.

Governador Valadares Airport (GVR)

Located about 90 km from Ponte Nova, it serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ponte Nova is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within walking distance. The streets are generally safe and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore local markets and restaurants on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Youth

A vibrant group that actively participates in local culture and events, often found in central areas during evenings.

Elderly Residents

A significant demographic in Ponte Nova, often engaged in community activities and traditional practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Brazil, with local teams actively engaging the community.

Volleyball

Another widely enjoyed sport, often played on the beaches or in local parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ponte Nova is generally light, with most residents using cars or motorcycles for transportation. Public transport options are limited, with small buses serving the area, but walking is often the best way to navigate the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ponte Nova.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Limited options are available, so it's best to inform the restaurant of any dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ponte Nova is provided through public and private facilities. The public health system offers basic services, but private clinics are recommended for quicker and higher quality care. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for basic medical needs.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide