Things To Do
in São Joaquim de Bicas
São Joaquim de Bicas is a small municipality in Minas Gerais, Brazil, part of the Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. It sits along scenic hillside farmland and river valleys, offering a quiet, rural feel close to urban amenities. The town blends traditional Minas Gerais cuisine, local crafts, and accessible nature escapes just a short drive from Belo Horizonte.
Visitors can experience a welcoming community, easy day trips, and a relaxed pace ideal for a restorative country-side break.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of São Joaquim de Bicas, where colonial architecture whispers stories of the past. Visit the local market to savor fresh fruits and regional delicacies, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture. Don't forget to stop by the historic Church of São Joaquim, a beautiful landmark that offers insight into the city's heritage.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the city's historic sites, including the old railway station that showcases the town’s importance in Brazil’s transportation history. Pause for lunch at a cozy local restaurant, where you can sample traditional dishes such as feijão tropeiro or pão de queijo. Afterward, stroll through the city park, where you can relax and interact with friendly locals.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a family-owned eatery known for its authentic Brazilian barbecue. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation while savoring a delicious meal. End your day by attending a local music performance, experiencing the rich rhythms and sounds of Brazilian culture.
Start your morning with an invigorating walk through the lush surroundings of the Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Rola-Moça, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Bring your binoculars to catch glimpses of exotic birds that inhabit the area, including toucans and hummingbirds. The fresh air and serene environment will rejuvenate your spirits as you connect with nature.
After a morning immersed in nature, have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots within the park, enjoying the sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds. Spend the afternoon hiking along designated trails, each offering unique views and opportunities for photography. Engage with fellow hikers, sharing stories and tips about the flora and fauna of this beautiful region.
As dusk falls, return to São Joaquim de Bicas and unwind at a local café, sipping on freshly brewed coffee and enjoying a slice of regional cake. Take a leisurely walk through the town, where you may stumble upon local artisans showcasing their crafts. End your evening by gazing at the stars, perhaps finding a quiet spot to reflect on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕️Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transit ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-45 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Proximity to Belo Horizonte for day trips
- Excellent Minas Gerais cuisine and cheese
- Affordable stay and easy access to nature
- Limited large-scale attractions compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining and nightlife
- Public transport less frequent outside peak hours
- Occasional language barriers for non-Portuguese speakers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Boa tarde" - Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in São Joaquim de Bicas
Visit one of these nice places.
The town's main church with a classic façade; capture its architecture and the bell tower against morning light.
Central square with colonial buildings, shaded benches, and community life; ideal for street photography and candid portraits.
H hillside viewpoint offering panoramic views over the town and surrounding valleys, especially striking at sunset.
Riverside paths and small bridges provide reflections and rural scenes, perfect for golden-hour shots.
Food in São Joaquim de Bicas
São Joaquim de Bicas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small, fluffy cheese breads made with Minas Gerais cheese; best enjoyed fresh from local bakeries.
Must-Try!
Creamy bean stew with farofa, usually served with pão, eggs, or farinha.
Seasoned beans with farinha, sausage, bacon, eggs, and herbs; a hearty Minas staple.
Artisanal Minas cheese; sample with guava jam or pão de queijo.
Sweet milk caramel pairs beautifully with queijo Minas as a classic dessert pairing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small municipal market offering fresh produce, pão de queijo, queijo, and regional snacks.
Weekly market with farmers selling fruits, vegetables, honey, and homemade sweets; try sample bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde' and a handshake; close friends may kiss on the cheek in informal settings.
Use 'por favor' and 'obrigado(a)' in conversations; show patience in queues.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; keep noise to a minimum.
Safety
Tipping in São Joaquim de Bicas
Ensure a smooth experience
In many casual eateries and markets tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% in nicer restaurants is appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade in the heat; evenings remain warm.
Milder temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration; light jackets may be needed in the evenings; some rain possible.
Cool to mild days with chilly nights; layer clothing and enjoy clear skies for city views.
Pleasant weather with blooming landscapes; great for hikes, markets, and photography.
São Joaquim de Bicas at Night
Hiking in São Joaquim de Bicas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rural hillside trail with viewpoints and shaded paths, suitable for beginners.
Short hike ending at a small waterfall; popular for picnics.
Airports
How to reach São Joaquim de Bicas by plane.
Main international gateway to the BH region, located about 60-100 km from São Joaquim de Bicas; taxis and shuttles connect to the city.
Domestic airport serving regional flights; convenient for short trips within Minas Gerais and nearby states.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Brazilian families with deep-rooted community ties.
Tourists and workers from Belo Horizonte and surrounding towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; matches and informal games are common on weekends.
Indoor five-a-side football widely played in community centers and gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Joaquim de Bicas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Minas cuisine centers on cheese and beans; vegetarians can enjoy pão de queijo, tutu de feijão, arroz com feijão, legumes, salads, and queijo canastra. Ask for pratos sem carne and avoid heavy lardons; many places can tailor dishes if you request it.