Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Ouro Preto Brazil: A Quick Look
Ouro Preto, Brazil, is a fantastic place to visit; you mightโve reached this article already knowing that. With this ultimate Ouro Preto travel guide, Iโll help you with everything you need to know for a remarkable trip. From pre-planning to safety tips, youโll be ready.
Also, if you are traveling around other parts of Brazil, you can read our in-depth country guide. See our complete Brazil travel guide here.
For Ouro Preto, you will get a feel of everything that should be on your packing list, plus the best areas to stay at depending on what you want to do. Ouro Preto is a destination for everyone hoping to live something magical in an unusual place.
Side note: One of the main questions we get when planning a trip to our country is โwhen is the best time to visit Brazilโ, which you can read later.
Whether you want to explore the natural beauty around you or get lost in these charming streets, Ouro Preto is waiting for you. Follow me along our Ouro Preto Travel guide, and letโs plan your trip together!
Ouro Preto Brazil: Quick travel tips before you go
๐ซ Airport: The closest airport to Ouro Preto, Brazil, is called Belo Horizonte – Confis International Airport. The airport code is CNF.
๐ค Currency: Brazilian Real, denoted by the symbol R$
๐ฃ๏ธ Language: Portuguese, English is more common in tourist areas and in hotels.
๐ฐ๏ธ Time Zone: Brasilia Standard Time (GMT-3). This means itโs regularly one hour ahead of EST and 4 hours ahead of PST.
๐ต Cost: Super affordable if you come from stronger currencies such as the US dollar, EURO, or Yen.
๐ Internet: It is not as fast as in Rio or Sรฃo Paulo, but it isnโt terrible either. It is a solid middle ground.
๐ Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here. For EU Nationals, you do NOT need a visa, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here.
๐ Power Outlets: We have two associated plug types in Brazil, types C and N. C is the one with two round pins. Type N has both round pins and a third one for grounding. For visitors from other countries, youโll need this universal travel adapter.
๐ Power Grid: It is excellent. Brazil mainly operates on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60Hz. Some newer buildings are working on 220V, but donโt count on it everywhere.
๐ณ SIM Card: You may be thinking, โIs it indispensable to get a SIM card for my trip to Brazil?โ It definitely is, and itโs just better to be safe.
๐ Car Rentals: Renting a car can be an overwhelming process, especially when you consider driving abroad. But depending on your plan, it could be the best way to go places for your group.
Ouro Preto Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)
๐ Food safety: All foods are safe to eat! Just use your common sense to avoid sketchy-looking street food.
๐งWater safety: Tap water isnโt safe for drinking here. You can drink if thereโs a filter; ice is generally safe, too. Keep a reusable bottle around, or buy it whenever you have to. You can also use a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle. It is refillable but filters your water so you donโt get sick in Brazil.
๐ทโโ๏ธ Daytime safety: Since petty theft is the most common crime in any tourist destination, here are some tips to avoid it. Avoid carrying designer items, loose purses, or jewels like watches and so. And only get your phone out when absolutely necessary.
๐ฆบ Nighttime safety: Like in any city you go to, your best friend has to be common sense. Donโt keep valuable items in your pockets or walk alone at night. Plus, if you have to go from one place to another during the evening, stick to ride-share apps or drive.
๐บ Avoiding scams: Scams are most likely to happen during sales transactions, so get your tickets to any activities online. As for any rides you need, book them from an app or through your hotel. If you have to withdraw money, donโt do it in gas stations or stores. And always be careful with your drinks.
Ouro Preto Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective
๐จ Best neighborhoods for tourists: Historic Downtown (best central location), Lavras Novas (groups and solo travelers), Sรฃo Bartolomeu (couples), Santo Antรดnio do Leite (families).
๐Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: Our main celebratory dates are Carnival in February, Festa Junina in June, Independence Day in September, and the Holiday season in December.
๐ Local food to try: Cachorro quente, brigadeiro, coxinha, feijoda, pao de quejo, pork meat, cheeses, and churrasco.
๐น Local drinks to try (alcoholic): The stateโs main alcoholic drink is Cachaรงa, but try the traditional caipirinha and Catuaba.
๐ง Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Coffee in Ouro Preto is excellent. But you HAVE TO try our traditional guaranรก soda, aรงaรญ juice, and caldo de cana.
๐ถโโ๏ธWalkability: While it is great, come prepared to climb some hills. Most cities around here have hilly streets.
๐ Nightlife: It is almost non-existent here, if weโre being honest. This town is for a more relaxed type of holiday.
๐ Friendly to Foreigners: Yes, very welcoming.Yes, very welcoming. Despite the language barrier, locals will try their best to help you.
๐ฅ Hospitals: It is very good, as Ouro Preto is used to receiving national and foreign tourists year-round.
๐บ๐ธ English speaking: In some places but not widely available.
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Where is Ouro Preto Brazil Located?
Ouro Preto Map
Ouro Preto, an enchanting colonial-era town, is deep in Brazilโs southeastern region in Minas Gerais. It is a perfect destination for those hoping to travel back in time by taking a plane.
What State is Ouro Preto In?
Ouro Preto, an inland delight enclosed by nature, is found within the borders of Minas Gerais. This southeastern state in Brazil is perfect for everyone, but especially for those hoping to enjoy natural beauty without comparison. You can also hop on a plan to stretch your trip and go to Rio for a few days.
Whatโs the Closest Airport to Ouro Preto Brazil?
The closest airport is in Belo Horizonte, and it is called Belo Horizonte – Confins International Airport (CNF). The airport is a couple of hours away from Ouro Preto, so you need to plan ahead. Since this is an international airport, you may not need to get a connection at any other airport.
What is the Best Way to Get to Your Ouro Preto Hotel?
Once you have reached Belo Horizonte – Confins International Airport (CNF), there are a few ways to get to your accommodation.
The easiest and best way to have a smooth beginning to your trip is to organize a private shuttle to where youโre staying so itโs not one more thing to figure out upon landing. If you are willing to adventure, you can try other options.
๐ก Pro Tip: If you plan to take an Uber, ensure you have a Brazil SIM card so your phone operates appropriately. You never want to depend on free public WIFI for using your ride-share apps.
You could always take a taxi, but BE SURE the driver turns on the meter to avoid scams; this is a good habit to adopt in all countries you go to. But given a bit of ground to cover, itโs better to go for another option.
Perhaps your best choice will be to rent a car. Not all Ouro Preto travel guides will tell you that it’s a two-hour ride from the airport to Ouro Preto. There are several rental companies to choose from at the airport. Itโs something to consider if you plan to drive around the city and its surroundings.
Plus, if your trip is more of a family affair, you should also consider renting a car. Not everyone can fit into the Uber sometimes.
How to Get Around Ouro Preto?
Ride Sharing (top choice): Smaller towns have their own apps besides Uber. Ouro Preto has cheap and convenient options for you to choose from. They are perfect for navigating the city more calmly.
Rent a Car (top choice): Getting a rental car is the ultimate freedom for your Ouro Preto adventure. Like this, you can explore each district, visit nearby cities, and do whatever you want. While having a car can offer much flexibility, remember to plan for parking costs and bring a valid driverโs license.
Take a Taxi: This Ouro Preto travel guide knows that taxis can be a convenient way to cover short distances, even if they cost a little more. Just pay attention to the meter to avoid overcharging.
Get on a Bike: It can become a challenge, given there are so many hills to cross, but it is a nice way to see the city differently. You can also try a mountain biking trail to do something unique.
Public transportation (last choice): Ouro Preto does have a great public transportation service, but it relies mainly on buses, so itโd be best to avoid it if possible. It is a lot cheaper; however, you may get very stressed out, so is it really worth it?
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
When to Go to Ouro Preto?
Scheduling your visit to Ouro Preto depends on more than when you can take vacation days. It is important to know what you want to get from your time there. Also, keep in mind seasons in Brazil are opposite of the Northern Hemisphere.
Ouro Preto Brazil Summer (December to March): If the vibe you want for your time here is sunny, warm, and full of festivals and adventure, this is the season. It is peak tourist season, so you will have plenty of people to meet and accommodations for foreigners.
Summer Carnival: The Brazilian Carnival is one of the most famous celebrations throughout the world. It happens towards the end of our summer, usually mid to late February. If you want to experience it in a calmer, more traditional way, then Ouro Preto is for you.
Ouro Preto Brazil Fall (April and May): You may be hoping for a calmer environment, fewer people, and nice weather; this Ouro Preto travel guide recommends coming over during the Fall. You still feel nice and cozy but not quite as hot as Summer does.
Ouro Preto Brazil Winter (June to August): During winter, Ouro Preto is a perfect place for you to enjoy a traditional country winter. It is a little warm during the day and nights are chilly, you also have more space to enjoy the many historic sights.
Ouro Preto Brazil Spring (September to November): Spring is another great time to go in, with the nature in town blossoming beautifully. Your tourist personality may be more outdoorsy, and Ouro Pretoโs Spring is waiting for you.
You should keep in mind that no matter when you visit, thereโs no way to go wrong with Ouro Preto!
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Where to Stay in Ouro Preto Brazil? (By Neighborhood)
Ouro Preto, just like any other tourist destination, has a few different areas you can stay at. Choosing one will depend on what kind of trip youโre planning and whoโs coming along.
Your main options are the following ones: Historic Downtown (best central location), Lavras Novas (groups and solo travelers), Sรฃo Bartolomeu (couples), and Santo Antรดnio do Leite (families).
So our first step is deciding your goal for the trip, whether youโre going on natural adventures or just relaxing around town. Once that is figured out, take into account who is tagging along since that might interfere with your choice.
Lavras Novas (Best for Group of Friends and Solo Travelers)
Lavras Novas in Ouro Preto is the perfect choice for solo people and groups because itโs the district closest to downtown. You will have a nice variety of restaurants, activities and great access to other parts of town.
Booking your accommodation here lets you enjoy action with a calmer energy while giving you easy ways to reach wherever you need to go.
Santo Antรดnio do Leite (Best for Families)
Santo Antรถnio do Leite is a great option if youโre heading down with the whole family.
It is a bit further from the most central parts of town, but every Ouro Preto travel guide will talk about how tranquil it is. If your family is hoping to catch a break, this district will welcome you with plenty of housing and dining choices for families of all sizes.
With a laid-back atmosphere and everything you may need for a smooth holiday, Santo Antรดnio do Leite is ready to take away your stress for a few days.
Sรฃo Bartolomeu (Best for Couples)
Sรฃo Bartolomeu is the perfect retreat for couples in Ouro Preto. It is famous for its baroque architecture from the eighteenth century. You can explore natural waterfalls, sample delicious homemade sweet treats, and enjoy street parties, depending on when you come.
With a great structure when it comes to stores and restaurants, it is also close enough to downtown. Sรฃo Bartolomeu District offers couples a romantic atmosphere for a perfect getaway.
Historic Downtown (Best Central Location)
The historic downtown area in Ouro Preto is a perfect choice for those who want a balanced environment for their time here. You can take advantage of it by walking to the most iconic sights, spending days exploring the streets, and then sitting down for great dining experiences.
Booking your stay in this area gives you the best mobility and is an ideal base for your Ouro Preto trip.
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Things to Do in Ouro Preto Brazil
- Visit Churches: Ouro Preto has a huge number of antique and baroque-style churches spread throughout many districts. You can put together your own itinerary of the ones you would like to see the most.
- Hit the Historic Centre: This is where you will find most of the iconic sights within a short distance of each other. You can also visit markets, restaurants, and bakeries for a truly immersive experience.
- Spend Some Time in Museums: Not every Ouro Preto travel guide will tell you how rich the cultural scene is there. From famous artists and sculptors to historical events, museums here are going to share a lot about this place with you.
- Go To The Pedra-Sabรฃo Fair: Here, youโre able to experience tradition in a refreshing way. The fair, reuniting more than 50 expositors, happens daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. You can shop for a variety of unique items and watch talented people sculpting live.
- Walk Through Conde de Bobadela Street: This street connects Tiradentes Square to other important points in town. It is surrounded by old houses that serve as handmade items shops, coffee shops, and bars for you to spend hours getting in and out of.
- Hike to Sรฃo Sebastiรฃo Hill Lookout: This lookout isnโt on most Ouro Preto travel guides, and thatโs such a shame. The view here is a breathtaking collective of Ouro Preto, the Espinhaรงo mountain range, complete with the Itacomi Peak in the distance. The best time to come is during sunset.
- Go To A Traditional Mineira Cuisine Restaurant: Minas Gerais is a state rich when it comes to having its own culinary identity. There are many great places for you to sit down and enjoy both savory and sweet dishes.
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Best Ouro Preto Tours
I donโt know about you, but I love it when I get to have the most fun with the least amount of effort. And booking a tour is the best way to do that. Taking an Uber or taxis everywhere can be a pretty expensive option to get around.
Below, Iโve compiled a list of the best types of tours for this Ouro Preto travel guide. They go through all different kinds of sights and activities to best fit you and your wishes.
Depending on how long I am staying in town, it is a nice thing to take a quick tour of towns to see where Iโd like to spend more of my time. It is so sad when we find an awesome spot on our last day, right?
๐กPro Tip: Itโs super unsafe to book tours from random street vendors. Opt for booking your tours online. You can sometimes book them through your hotel, but that may not be very cost-effective since they can take a slice of the price for profit.
Tours are a simplified way for you to get an immersion in new places. You can visit cultural, historical, or natural landmarks without too much planning.
Here are the main kinds of tours for Ouro Preto:
- Complete Ouro Preto City Tour: There are a few different ways this one can look, but it is perfect if you want to get the most out of a short period of time. You will be guided through the cityโs main sights by an experienced guide.
- Ouro Preto Historic Downtown Walking Tour: If you want to get some steps in during your vacation here, then look for a guided walking tour of the downtown area. You will see many of the top spots from up close while interacting with local life.
- Adventure Tour: These ones are for true adventurers. Ask your accommodation if theyโre available depending on the season, and go through nature to enjoy a natural shower in breathtaking places.
- Food and Culinary Tours: Minas Gerais is a state famous for having a rich culinary scene. So maybe booking a tour to go through Ouro Preto and surrounding cities and the best restaurants they have to offer is a great idea.
- Natural Lookout Tours: As the person putting together this Ouro Preto travel guide, itโs my duty to tell you to visit as many of these as you can. And what better way than to be safely guided to places where we can see the beauty around us?
- Old Mines Tour: This area of Brazil was once known for the mining of precious metals and stones, so book a tour through these old halls if you dare.
- Private Custom Tours: Should you be able to splurge, then getting a customizable tour for your trip may be it. Like this, you will build your own itinerary, follow your rhythm, and not have to deal with others possibly ruining your day.
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Is Ouro Preto Safe for Tourists?
Definitely, Ouro Preto locals boast how safe the streets here can be. That doesnโt mean it is totally crime-free; you still have to use your common sense like on any other trip.
Your biggest concern is going to be petty crimes like theft, especially during busier times around the most popular landmarks. It doesnโt matter if youโre in Europe or Downtown Ouro Preto; the risk of something like this happening is exactly the same.
If you are well prepared, you will be less of a target, so here are some of my
๐กPro Safety Tips (For Any City You Travel To):
- Valuables should go in two spots on your person when out and about. Your small, more important items can go in one of those thin fanny packs that are hidden underneath your clothing. Other items that arenโt as valuable can go in another spot. This strategy helps you avoid losing your things if pickpocketing does happen.
- When youโre in one of those super hot spots, avoid taking your valuables and phone out unless itโs necessary.
- Be mindful of those sudden chaotic situations since petty thieves can cause them to be a distraction.
- When checking in your hotel, ask them if there are any areas to avoid right now and which ones are safe all day long.
- Avoid wearing flashy items with visible brand logos on them. Also, Ouro Preto is a more natural place, so donโt use fancy jewelry or watches.
As a visitor, you should take precautions all the time, even if youโre coming to Ouro Preto, which has a lower crime rate than other towns. You can count on well-patrolled streets, welcoming locals, and a hospitality industry ready for foreigners.
Just always keep your eyes attentive and avoid poorly lit areas or deserted places. Remember that your safety depends mostly on being aware and making smart decisions!
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?
This is a question that I get a lot, as travel insurance can get confusing. This is a critical part of your trip though so that you do not have to worry when visiting Ouro Preto or any other part of the world.
Figuring out travel insurance can be overwhelming. However, having the right travel insurance coverage is essential for a stress-free trip to Ouro Preto, Brazil. The key is to make sure it is simple and flexible.
To streamline this, we have broken down the best travel insurance companies out there in the industry that are all great but also serve different needs.
Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table:
โ World Nomads: Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear.
โ SafetyWing: This is for general travelers, frequent travelers, and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage.
โ Travel Insurance Master: Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies.
Ouro Preto TRAVEL GUIDE
Ouro Preto Travel: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drink the water in Ouro Preto Brazil?
Tap water is a solid NO for drinking in Brazil.
In Ouro Preto, Brazil, itโs best to avoid drinking unfiltered water. It is treated and safe to use for everyone; just donโt risk drinking it.
You are fine to brush your teeth, take showers, and whatnot, but otherwise, Iโd recommend everyone reading this Ouro Preto travel guide to either buy bottled water or carry a refillable one.
With that being said, most restaurants in Ouro Preto have filtered water available and use it to prepare ice, leaving your drinks perfectly safe for consumption, too. Just ask the place, and if not, then get a bottle of water!
Also, not all Ouro Preto travel guides are clear about how hot it can get in town, so you have to stay hydrated. The last thing you want is to get sick and have your trip ruined.
So Your Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:
- If you stay in an Airbnb, boil the water in case there isnโt a filter.
- At a hotel, buy bottled water in the absence of filters, but this can get expensive quickly.
- Get a reusable water bottle to refill, and refilling is free, so you donโt have to worry about something so simple as buying drinking water while in Ouro Preto, Brazil. Something like the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle is perfect.
Whatโs the Ouro Preto Weather Like?
Ouro Preto, Brazil, has a unique high-altitude tropical climate, which means it has very defined seasons with humid summers and mild winters.
During the summer months, from late December to late March, temperatures range between 21ยฐC to 29ยฐC ( 69,8ยฐF to 84ยฐ2). It can get pretty dry since youโre far from any coastal areas. This season also encompasses the wet season, so prepare ahead.
The winter season, from June to September, gets a little colder since weโre in the countryside. It isnโt as cold as it can get further south, but come ready for chilly mornings. Thermometers stay within a range between 18ยฐ and 27ยฐC (64,4ยฐF and 80,6ยฐF). It rains a lot less, but it can still happen.
Our Ouro Preto travel guide also would like to talk a little about shoulder seasons!
They are Fall (late March through. late June) and Spring (late September through late December). Temperatures are milder, making it the best moment for those who hope to avoid extreme temperatures.
When youโre coming doesnโt matter as much as the type of experience you are looking for. Ouro Pretoโs weather is quite stable, so always look at the weather forecast for your time here beforehand.
Is Ouro Preto Expensive?
For visitors coming from places like the USA or European countries, Ouro Preto can be a very affordable experience due to favorable exchange rates. Expenses like housing, food, and transportation end up being a lot cheaper in comparison to your home country’s prices.
Enjoying local restaurants usually costs much less than what youโre used to paying in other US or European cities. Keep in mind that going to fancier restaurants and getting higher-end items can begin to compare prices.
Youโre also able to find local goods and services for a fair price, including unique artisanal crafts to bring over to your family back home.
I want to register in this Ouro Preto travel guide so you never forget that costs do increase during peak seasons, especially for higher-demand areas and attractions. So, if you have a stricter budget, avoid the summer months to make your money go further.
Is Ouro Preto Worth Visiting?
A hundred percent yes! Ouro Preto is a unique Brazilian destination because it has a little bit of everything. You can travel through this countryโs history, check out amazing architecture, and try a lot of food.
Ouro Preto, a must-see destination for every person who wants to be amazed, is much more than the churches itโs famous for. You can appreciate awe-inspiring interiors, hike to amazing waterfalls, and be transported to colonial-era Brazil.
Art students and young creatives are revitalizing Ouro Pretoโs colonial charm with modern expression. Expect to find pop-up art exhibits, handmade jewelry fairs, and cultural events mixing baroque aesthetics with Gen Z flair.
Should you be a foodie like me, Ouro Preto is home to many amazing restaurants and cafes for you to try authentic โMineiraโ culinary.
Locals will be happy to welcome you to their home for a few days, sharing safe streets and amazing weather.
How Many Days Do I Need in Ouro Preto Brazil?
If you want to hike to waterfalls, spend the due time in each place, and still do some activities like guided tours and such, prepare to spend five to seven full days. This is even more necessary when youโre coming to a festival like Carnival.
Now, your goal can be to enjoy nature but still try to plan for four to five days. There are many waterfalls and natural lookouts to visit, so a couple of days will never be enough.
After everything youโve read in this Ouro Preto travel guide, think of the number of days you may need, then add a couple just to be safe.
General Ouro Preto, Brazil Travel Info & FAQ
๐ Ouro Preto Weather
Ouro Preto, the inland location of the town makes the weather travel to extremes, but itโs stable.
Depending on when in the year you come, your weather will be hot and humid in the summer. Your winters are mild with less rain.
This town is a year-round destination, so look up the season youโre going in.
๐ฐ Brazil Currencyย
Cards are accepted in most establishments and hotels, but itโs still a good idea to have some cash on you. This is for those street fairs or small vendors that might not have a card reader. You donโt want to miss out on something amazing because you didn’t prepare.
๐ฃ๏ธ Brazil Languageย
Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, so in Ouro Preto and throughout the country, this is what you’ll most likely hear.ย
English is available in a number of tourist areas and hotels, but you should learn basic Portuguese phrases to help you have a better experience and have locals welcome you.
If you want to learn a bit of Portuguese prior to going, DuoLingo and Pimsleur are great tools to use.
๐ซ Ouro Preto Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season
Ouro Preto Busy Season: This is the summer in Brazil, mostly December to February, and July in the winter. It is when the popular festival of Carnival happens. As this is the โbusyโ season, remember that there will be bigger crowds of tourists, and prices will be higher across all establishments.ย
Ouro Preto Slow Season: That is the winter time and goes from June to September, except for July, as I mentioned previously in this Ouro Preto travel guide, due to school breaks. It is much more relaxed, and there will be far fewer tourists. If you are looking to go to Brazil and get travel deals while doing it, then this is your time to plan the trip.ย
Ouro Preto Shoulder Seasons: The shoulder seasons in Brazil are considered Fall and Spring. Months transitioning between busy and slow seasons can offer a middle ground of decent weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. Keep in mind that the seasons are opposite, so for instance, in the US, the Fall would be their Spring and vice versa.
Do I Need a Visa for Brazil?ย
The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023.ย
The Longer Answer: Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country.ย
Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.
Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan
Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes.ย
This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.
Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this.ย
Section 2: European Union (EU)ย Nationals
For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil.ย
This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.
Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.
For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip.ย
The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here.
What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List?ย
The worst thing for you to deal with is overpacking or ending up without all the things you need for your trip. It is not great if you have to waste a whole day buying stuff you forgot back home. Packing for Brazil, just as you would for any other trip, so hereโs a list Iโve put together for our Ouro Preto Travel guide.
Packing for Brazil should be done in advance, just like any other major trip abroad.
Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs:
๐ Power Adapters: Brazil has only types C and N outlets. Be sure to have the correct adapters to keep your devices charged so you donโt need to go buy one in a hurry. For visitors from other countries, youโll need this universal travel adapter.
๐ณ Brazil and Florianopolis SIM Card: You need to stay connected when traveling abroad. Purchase a Brazilian SIM card for communication and internet access. Itโll help a ton when youโve got to deal with Google Maps and Uber.
๐ง Filterable Water Bottle: Tap water in Ouro Preto is safe for use, but this Ouro Preto travel guide does not recommend drinking it. Carry a reusable water bottle to avoid having to always buy bottled water. You can use a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle. It is refillable, but filters your water so you donโt get sick in Brazil.
๐ Anti-Hangover Meds: Brazilโs nightlife is wild. It’s for sure worth carrying anti-hangover medications to make sure your trip runs smoother. The last thing you want to do is waste an entire day out of a seven-day trip in bed with a hangover.ย
๐ Sun Protection: Brazilโs sun is pretty intense, so donโt try to be tough. Bring your favorite high-SPF sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself. Even a short time in the sun can harm your skin and turn your trip into an unpleasant mess.
๐ฆ Bug Repellent: Not only is Brazil a tropical climate, but Ouro Preto is also surrounded by nature, so mosquitoes are a given. No matter what you have planned, always put on a layer before going out the door. Itโs terrible to itch uncontrollably. To make it easy, here is an eco-friendly bug repellent.
๐ฉด Comfortable Footwear: Not all Ouro Preto travel guides will tell just how much walking is involved in coming here. So bring over your best walking shoes and sandals for relaxed moments.
๐ Travel Documents: Donโt forget to bring all of your travel documents like passports, visas if itโs necessary, plus travel insurance. Speaking of that, get a few printouts, just in case. In fact, keep a photocopy of all your documents for if anything happens.
The rest of your packing list should be made up of clothing geared towards the season you plan to travel to Ouro Preto. Tailor this list according to your needs and planned activities.
Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Ouro Preto Brazil?ย
Of course! It is safe and perfectly fine for you to rent a car and drive around in Ouro Preto, Brazil. The city can be a little challenging since there are a lot of hills to go up, but you will be fine!
Brazilian traffic rules are a little different from what you may be used to, but navigating Ouro Preto is generally hassle-free since itโs such a calm town. Road signs are mostly in Portuguese, but your GPS or Google Maps can help if your mobile network is set up.ย
Remember that in Brazil, we drive on the right-hand side. So make sure to add good insurance to your rental car booking for peace of mind, and youโre all set. And when you park, lock your car properly and double check no valuables were left in plain sight.
Overall, driving around Ouro Preto is an awesomely safe experience. Itโll give you a lot more freedom and flexibility to see the sights. Renting a car in Ouro Preto is more than a way to go around; it is part of your adventure here.
Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?
No, not really. You donโt have to speak Portuguese to come to Brazil. Especially in tourist-heavy areas like Ouro Preto, you will find locals who can keep a conversation in English pretty well.
However, learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese can make your travel experience richer, help you be immersed in local culture, and can be very useful in situations where English isn’t widely spoken, like street fairs. Tools like DuoLingo are great, user-friendly language apps that can help you pick up the basics before your trip.
However, even if you donโt speak Portuguese fluently, you’ll be able to navigate Brazil just fine. I always like to use apps to learn basic phrases before going to another country. So, if you are like me, then for sure, dig into learning the language a little.
Here are some great language preparation options for your trip to Brazil:
Learn Basic Portuguese: Use language-learning platforms like DuoLingo or Pimsleur. They have interactive courses to help you become more confident and talk a little Portuguese before your trip.
Use Google Translate App: This app is a lifesaver when you’re navigating language barriers. Remember, you’ll need a Brazil SIM card with data for the app to work without WiFi.
Get a Portuguese Phrasebook: Consider packing a Portuguese phrasebook as well, such as the Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook. It’s a fantastic non-digital assistant to help you communicate and understand the local language better.
Even if you don’t become fluent, having some very basic knowledge of the local language will definitely enhance your travel experience in Ouro Preto, Brazil. It will be much appreciated if the locals see you have tried to make an effort, even if it is small.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel?ย
Yes, Brazil can be safe for solo female travelers, but like anywhere in the world, you should always take precautions.ย
Common sense safety tips include researching and staying in well-reviewed accommodations, booking your activities online and not with someone on the street, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings.ย
In addition, do not bring anything flashy, like visible designer logos. Leave that at home.ย
It’s also recommended to respect local customs and dress codes. Using only trusted transportation services can help ensure safety when traveling from place to place. So ride-share apps such as Uber or your own rental car are highly recommended.
Always stay connected with friends or family and keep them informed about your plans.ย
Solo travel in Brazil, specifically in Ouro Preto, can be the experience of a lifetime with the right planning.
