Things To Do
in Sabará

Sabará is a historic town located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the hills, it offers picturesque views and a charming atmosphere that attracts visitors year-round. The town is famous for its gold mining history and its well-preserved churches, particularly the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi.

With a vibrant local culture and stunning natural surroundings, Sabará is a hidden gem for travelers looking for a unique Brazilian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Sabará
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, renowned for its ornate baroque architecture. Afterward, stroll through the historic center to enjoy the colonial buildings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museu do Ouro (Gold Museum) to learn about the region's mining history. Then, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful streets and explore local artisan shops.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, trying Minas Gerais cuisine, and enjoy a traditional live music performance at a nearby bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Rola-Moça, where you can enjoy stunning views and local flora.

afternoon
:

Return to town for lunch at a local café, followed by a visit to the local market to sample street food and buy handmade crafts.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset view at a lookout point, followed by dinner at a popular steakhouse known for its delicious local meats.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚖Taxi fare (within city)$5
🍺Local beer$3
🏨Hotel night (2-3 stars)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some tourist attractions may have limited hours.
  • Transport options might be less frequent on weekends.
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Sabará

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Saint Francis of Assisi

A stunning example of baroque architecture, this church offers beautiful interiors and a breathtaking exterior, perfect for photography.

Historic Center

The colonial buildings and cobblestone streets of the historic center create a picturesque backdrop for photos.

Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Rola-Moça

A scenic park with panoramic views and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sabará

Sabará offers a delightful culinary experience that celebrates the rich traditions of Minas Gerais. Visitors can indulge in local dishes that reflect the area's history and culture.

Sabará Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

A popular cheese bread made from tapioca flour, known for its chewy texture and savory flavor.

Must-Try!

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, bacon, and a mix of spices, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A weekly open-air market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food like pastéis (fried pastries).

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Sabará is predominantly tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Winters are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is common from December to March, while June to August tends to be drier.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone. It's polite to greet people with 'Bom dia' (Good morning).

Dress Code

Dress is generally casual, but it's advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Traditions

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during religious festivities and events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sabará is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and stick to well-lit areas at night. It's also wise to use registered taxis or ride-sharing services instead of walking alone at night.

Tipping in Sabará

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally expected in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill. It's also appreciated by taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and street food.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain showers. It's a great time for outdoor activities, but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures are moderate, and the landscape is beautiful as the leaves change color. Ideal for hiking and exploring.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures with low rainfall, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring (September to November)

Mild weather and blooming flora create a vibrant atmosphere, excellent for photography and cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Sabará at Night

Sabará offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars and live music venues. The town comes alive in the evenings, especially on weekends, with locals enjoying traditional music, dance, and delicious food. Popular spots include bars that feature sertanejo music, a genre native to the region, where you can dance the night away and experience the local culture.

Hiking in Sabará

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Pico da Pedra Branca

A challenging trail that leads to the summit of Pedra Branca, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Trilha do Morro do Chapéu

A moderate hike through lush vegetation leading to an iconic viewpoint, perfect for a day trip with family or friends.

Airports

How to reach Sabará by plane.

Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF)

Located about 30 km from Sabará, this airport serves domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sabará is a walkable town, particularly in its historic center where most attractions are located within easy walking distance. The cobblestone streets add charm but may be uneven in places, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Public parks and plazas also offer pleasant walking paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Adults

This group typically engages in nightlife and cultural activities, contributing to the vibrancy of the local community.

Families

Families often participate in outdoor events and community festivals, enjoying the cultural heritage of Sabará.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Sabará, with local teams and leagues drawing crowds and community support.

Basketball

Basketball is also a favored sport, with various courts available for public use and regular games played in the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sabará is typically light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect different parts of the town and neighboring cities. However, during peak hours, minor congestion can occur.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sabará.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff about ingredients, as some may contain meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sabará is accessible, with public and private hospitals available. The public health system can be crowded, so for non-emergency situations, private clinics may offer quicker service. Travelers should consider having health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide