Things To Do
in Salinas

Capture daily life, colonial facades, market activity and evening light; good for candid street photography.

Photograph traditional copper stills, sugarcane fields (when in season), and the artisanal production process — ask permission before shooting people.

Sunrise and sunset over the river and surrounding valleys provide golden light and wide pastoral views.

Colorful stalls, music, and people during fairs and religious or seasonal festivals offer vibrant cultural photo opportunities.

A Minas classic of beans mixed with manioc flour, sausage, bacon and eggs — commonly found in local restaurants and perfect with rice and fresh salad.

Must-Try!

Cheese bread — a must-try snack available in bakeries and cafes throughout the day.

Sun-dried beef prepared and served grilled or stewed, often accompanied by cassava, rice and vegetables; typical at regional eateries.

World-class, small-batch sugarcane spirit produced locally — visit alambiques (distilleries) for tastings and to buy bottles to take home.

Morning market where vendors sell fresh produce, cheeses, snacks like pão de queijo, sweets and sometimes prepared lunch dishes — great for people-watching and tasting local items.

Evening and weekend stalls offering espetinhos (meat skewers), tapioca and typical Minas sweets; ideal for quick, inexpensive bites.

Brazilians are warm and use a handshake, hug or cheek kiss (one or two depending on region) among acquaintances — begin with a friendly 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon).

Show respect in churches, religious events and family-run establishments; dress modestly in religious settings and ask before photographing people during ceremonies.

Polite conversation at shops and markets is customary; brief small talk before business is common and appreciated rather than jumping straight to a request.

If visiting distilleries or farms, be punctual for appointments, ask permission before taking photos, and buy a bottle if you enjoyed a private tasting — it’s a direct way to support local producers.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory — in restaurants a 10% service charge may be added (check your bill). For small services (taxi drivers, guides, bar staff) round up fares or leave small change; tip more for personalized guided tours or exceptional service.

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely used and preferred for small purchases, markets and rural businesses. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants and stores but network coverage can be spotty; bring cash for distilleries, markets and smaller vendors. ATMs are available in town but withdraw some cash before venturing into rural areas.

December to March: hot and, in some years, wetter — expect afternoon showers though northern Minas is drier than coastal regions. Bring sun protection, lightweight clothing and waterproof layers for occasional storms.

April to June: pleasant temperatures with diminishing rains and clearer skies — a comfortable time for outdoor activities and distillery visits.

July to September: dry and cooler at night, often with clear skies and comfortable days — ideal for hiking and photography; bring a light jacket for evenings.

October to November: warming temperatures and the return of some rains. Vegetation becomes greener and countryside drives look refreshed; carry sun protection and a light rain jacket.

The nearest major regional airport (approx. 100–150 km by road depending on route) with regular domestic flights; from there you can reach Salinas by bus, rental car or private transfer.

Major international airport serving Belo Horizonte, approx. 300–400 km away; a longer drive or internal flight to Montes Claros followed by ground transport to Salinas is common.