Things To Do
in Unaí

Unaí is a vibrant city located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its rich agricultural landscape and friendly locals. The city serves as a hub for trade and commerce in the region, with a strong emphasis on agriculture, particularly soy and corn production. Its cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture and annual festivals, which celebrate local traditions.

Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality and explore the serene natural surroundings that characterize Unaí.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Unaí
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Praça do Mercado, where you can enjoy a traditional breakfast of pão de queijo (cheese bread) and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, an iconic church that showcases the local architecture and offers a glimpse into the city's history.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and try the traditional dish of feijão tropeiro, followed by a leisurely stroll along the city's main street to experience local shops and cafes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short trip to Parque Natural Municipal do Cerrado, where you can hike and enjoy the rich biodiversity of the region.

afternoon
:

Head back to the city and explore the Museu Histórico de Unaí to learn about the region's history and culture.

evening
:

End your day at a local bar, enjoying live music and trying some caipirinhas, Brazil's famous cocktail.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi fare (5km)$3
🍺Beer (local)$4
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Affordable food and living costs.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Occasional language barriers for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • Transportation options may be limited outside the city center.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Unaí

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário

This historic church features stunning architecture and is a great spot for capturing local culture.

Parque Natural Municipal do Cerrado

With its diverse flora and fauna, this park offers breathtaking landscapes perfect for nature photography.

Praça do Mercado

Capture the lively atmosphere of this market square, filled with vibrant colors and bustling activity.

Culinary Guide

Food in Unaí

Unaí offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the agricultural bounty of the region. Visitors can indulge in a variety of local dishes that highlight the flavors of Minas Gerais.

Unaí Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, cassava flour, and various seasonings, often served with sausage and eggs.

Must-Try!

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made from tapioca flour and cheese, a popular snack throughout Brazil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Praça do Mercado

A bustling market square where locals gather to buy fresh produce and street food, offering a taste of local life.

Climate Guide

Weather

Unaí has a tropical savanna climate, with a distinct wet and dry season. Summers are hot and humid, with average highs reaching around 30°C (86°F) and rain showers occurring frequently. Winters are much cooler, with average temperatures dropping to around 18°C (64°F). The best time to visit is during the dry months from May to September when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when greeting someone. Always greet people when entering a room.

Dress Code

Dress is generally casual, but when visiting churches or formal events, modest attire is recommended.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to start eating, and it's polite to try a bit of everything offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Unaí is generally safe for visitors, it's wise to remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when using ATMs. It's recommended to travel in groups and use reputable transportation services, especially at night.

Tipping in Unaí

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but check your bill as some may already include service charges.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand is advisable for small purchases and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain, making it a great time for outdoor activities, but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures start to cool down, offering pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.

Winter (June to August)

This season brings cooler temperatures, and while it's generally dry, occasional cold fronts can occur.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is marked by blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

Nightlife Guide

Unaí at Night

Unaí has a lively nightlife scene, with various bars and music venues offering live entertainment. Locals enjoy socializing in open-air settings, especially during weekends. You can find a mix of traditional Brazilian music, such as sertanejo and forró, along with more contemporary genres. The atmosphere is friendly, and establishments often stay open late, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Unaí

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha da Serra do Cipó

A scenic hiking trail located about 100 km from Unaí, known for its stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Trilha do Parque Natural do Cerrado

This trail within the local park offers a moderate hike with opportunities to observe unique wildlife and beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Unaí by plane.

Uberlândia Airport (UDI)

Located approximately 250 km from Unaí, Uberlândia Airport is the nearest major airport, offering domestic flights to various Brazilian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Unaí is moderately walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a reasonable distance from each other. Sidewalks are available in the city center, making it easy for pedestrians to navigate. However, some areas may lack proper infrastructure, so it’s advisable to stay vigilant while walking, especially at night.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Agricultural Workers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, contributing to the region's economy and cultural identity.

Students

With several educational institutions in the city, Unaí has a vibrant student community that adds to its youthful energy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Unaí, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during matches.

Volleyball

Volleyball is widely played, both recreationally and competitively, with many public courts available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Unaí is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the city, but services may be limited outside peak hours. It’s advisable to check local timetables and plan your journeys accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Unaí.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat ingredients in traditional meals.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may be limited, many dishes made from rice and beans are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Unaí includes several public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is available to residents, but visitors may prefer private facilities for quicker service. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide