Things To Do
in Sabará
Sabará is a historic mining town just outside Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Perched on a hillside, it preserves a well-kept colonial center with cobblestone streets and ornate churches. The town blends baroque architecture with a relaxed vibe, artisanal shops, and hillside viewpoints.
Visitors can explore museums, religious sites, and easy hikes that reveal the region's mineral heritage and views over the surrounding valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure by strolling through the cobblestone streets of Sabará's historic center. Discover the beautiful colonial architecture, including the impressive Church of Our Lady of the Conception. Stop by local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs and crafts.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Brazilian dishes. After lunch, visit the Museu do Ouro to learn about the city's gold mining history and the impact it had on the region. Don't miss the opportunity to explore nearby Praça Híldelene and relax in its charming atmosphere.
As the sun sets, find a rooftop bar to enjoy a drink while overlooking Sabará. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a live music event or festival happening in the square. Conclude your day with a sunset walk along the river, absorbing the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Start your day with an early visit to the historic gold mines surrounding Sabará. Take a guided tour to learn about the mining processes and the challenges faced by miners in the colonial era. Experience the thrilling adventure of walking through the tunnels that once produced enormous wealth.
After your mining experience, enjoy a picnic lunch at a nearby park, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon hiking the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the valley and the city below. Capture stunning photographs of the lush landscape as you explore.
Return to Sabará and revel in the local cuisine at a traditional restaurant. Try the renowned 'feijão tropeiro,' a dish native to the region, complemented by a cold caipirinha. Wind down your evening by taking a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🚎Public transport ticket | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🏠1 bed apartment (city center, monthly) | $350-550 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich colonial heritage and architecture
- Friendly locals and safe-feeling historic center
- Close to Belo Horizonte for day trips and shopping
- Good base for hillside viewpoints and easy nature walks
- Not a large nightlife scene
- Some streets are steep and cobbled, which can be challenging for mobility
- Certain attractions may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o [lugar]?" - Where is the [place]?
- "Eu não falo Português muito bem" - I don't speak Portuguese very well
Places to Visit in Sabará
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light warms centuries‑old façades along Sabará’s historic lanes.
Panoramic city and valley views, especially dramatic at sunset.
Photograph Baroque details, gilded altarpieces, and ornate walls (where photography is permitted).
Colorful market building and bustling street life—great for candid shots.
Food in Sabará
Sabará Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beans cooked with cassava flour, sausage, bacon, and eggs; a classic Minas Gerais dish often served with rice and greens.
Must-Try!
Creamy mashed beans enriched with farinha de mandioca and queijo fresco; a comforting staple in many tavernas.
Soft, cheesy bread bites made with queijo minas; ideal for breakfast or a snack on the go.
Chicken stewed with okra, typically served with rice or polenta for a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering local cheeses, doces, fresh produce, and small stalls with snacks.
Street-facing stalls and cafés offering pastel, salgados, and tapiocas—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Olá' or 'Bom dia'; a handshake is common in formal settings and with new acquaintances.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and remove hats as appropriate.
Be polite, avoid loud conversations in public spaces, and queue with patience; address elders or officials with titles such as 'Senhor' or 'Senhora'.
Safety
Tipping in Sabará
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; many restaurants include a service charge (around 10%). If not included, leaving 5–10% in cash is appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; many places also accept cash (Brazilian reais). Small vendors and markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a light rain jacket, and stay hydrated; mornings are pleasant for walking the historic center.
Mild temperatures with decreasing rain; ideal for city walks and outdoor viewpoints without intense heat.
Cooler and drier; nights can be chilly; bring a light jacket. Daytime remains comfortable for exploring.
Warm days with the possibility of late showers; good for outdoor activities and photography as light softens in late afternoon.
Sabará at Night
Hiking in Sabará
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle ascent through scenic viewpoints and educational stops about Sabará’s mining past.
Rugged hillside trail with panoramic views of the city and valley; best during the dry season.
Airports
How to reach Sabará by plane.
Main gateway for international and domestic flights serving the Belo Horizonte region; roughly 40–60 km from Sabará via highway.
Smaller domestic airport catering to regional flights; about 40–70 km from Sabará, depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, students from nearby universities, and professionals in mining, commerce, and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region with local leagues and community matches.
Common in schools and clubs; recreational leagues and park courts are popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sabará.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy queijo Minas, pão de queijo, fresh fruit, legumes, and vegetable dishes; ask for dishes prepared with oil instead of lard and verify sauces.