Varginha TRAVEL GUIDE
Varginha Brazil: A Quick Look
Are you tired of visiting the same destinations? Sunny beaches, urban centers, famous restaurants, and cities full of casinos? If so, I present one of the most incredible and mystical cities in Brazil: Varginha.
Varginha is known as one of the most important cities in the world when it comes to flying saucers. Did you know that there are several occurrences in Brazil involving this curious subject? And Varginha has taken advantage of this extraordinary fact to create several themed sites, such as flying saucer monuments, museums involving ufology, and several other unique things in Brazil and the world!
In this Varginha travel guide, you will find everything you need to know, from pre-planning your trip to staying safe. For an in-depth country guide, see our complete Brazil travel guide.
This charming town in the south of Minas Gerais became world famous thanks to the mysterious “Varginha Incident” in January 1996. In this event, two sisters claimed to have seen alien beings in the region. If this has aroused your curiosity, check out our tips for finding out more about this incredible city!
In addition to its themed streets and squares, which feature replicas of spaceships and alien statues, Varginha is also renowned for being one of the main hubs for the production and trade of high-quality coffee in Brazil. The coffee produced in Varginha is appreciated all over the world, and the city maintains strong commercial ties with several countries.
It is worth noting that Varginha is considered one of the seven best cities in Brazil in which to live and invest. This is due to its privileged location on the shores of the beautiful Furnas Lake and its proximity to three of the country’s main capitals: Belo Horizonte, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. It’s a truly special place to explore and enjoy.
Side note: One of the main questions we get when planning a trip to our country is “when is the best time to visit Brazil”, which you can read later.
Come with me on this incredible and mysterious travel guide!
Varginha Brazil: Quick travel tips before you go
🛫 Airport: The closest airport to Varginha, Brazil, is called Belo Horizonte/Confins -Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF). It was voted the best in the country, according to a national survey.
🤑 Currency: Brazilian Real, denoted by the symbol R$
🗣️ Language: Portuguese, English is more common in tourist areas and in hotels.
🕰️ Time Zone: Brasilia Standard Time (GMT-3). This means it’s regularly one hour ahead of EST and 4 hours ahead of PST.
💵 Cost: Super affordable if you come from stronger currencies such as the US dollar, EURO, or Yen.
🛜 Internet: It is VERY good! Among the capitals of the Southeast, Belo Horizonte has the best internet.
📄 Brazil Visa: As of right now, if you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then no. This can change starting 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 details here.
🔌 Power Outlets: In Brazil, we have two associated plug types, C and N. Plug type C is the one with two round pins. Plug type N has two round pins and a larger grounding pin. Consider bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with these outlets during your travels.
🔋 Power Grid: Wonderful! Brazil operates entirely on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60 Hz. Some newer hotels use at 220V but don’t count on this.
📳 SIM Card: If you are considering the necessity of a SIM card for Brazil, trust me: the answer is a loud yes. They are not expensive, and to have one in any country you travel to is a must. Brazil’s most used SIM card operators are Tim, Claro, Oi, and Vivo.
🚘 Car Rentals: Renting a car in Brazil can be a little overwhelming, and you can be nervous about driving abroad. However, it can be the best way to move depending on the trip you plan after reading this Varginha travel guide.
Varginha Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)
🍏 Food safety: Food is safe pretty much everywhere. Use your common sense, though, and avoid sketchy-looking things like seafood on the streets.
💧Water safety: Tap water isn’t indicated for consumption, except for outside use, like washing hands and brushing teeth. Filtered water and ice are safe to consume. Restaurants usually have filters as well. Prefer to filter your water or buy bottled water. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
👷♀️ Daytime safety: The most common thing in any tourist area is petty theft. Here are some tips. Ditch designer clothes, purses, and jewelry (including expensive watches. Don’t bury your head in your phone. Only have your phone out when absolutely necessary.
🦺 Nighttime safety: Use common sense like in any big city you visit. Don’t put valuables in your pocket, don’t walk alone at night, don’t pull your phone out on the street, don’t wear jewelry or watches or expensive purses, and don’t use the metro at night.
👺 Avoiding scams: Make sure your valuables are safe. Buy tickets for sightseeing tours and concerts online, not from street vendors. Taxis or Ubers should be booked directly from apps or through your hotel. Be mindful of where you withdraw your money; do it at banks only. Also, never leave your drink unattended.
Varginha Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective
🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists: Centro (best central location and for nightlife), Vila Pinto (couples), Alta Villa (family), Rezende (family) and Parque Boa Vista (couples).
🎄Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: This Varginha travel guide recommends you try Carnival, Festa Junina (June Festival), Independence Day (Sete de Setembro), Folias de Reis, and Christmas around here.
🍜 Local food to try: One of the absolute must-try items when visiting Varginha is definitely the delicious Pão de Queijo, also known as Cheesy Puffs. It’s a local specialty, and many people say that if you visit Varginha and don’t savor these Cheesy Puffs, you’ve truly missed out on the experience. Additionally, there are other mouthwatering dishes and treats to explore in this city, such as Feijão Tropeiro, Tutu à Mineira, Queijo Minas, Doce de Leite, Cachaça (a traditional Brazilian spirit), and Café Mineiro (local coffee).
🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): Cachaça is the most famous traditional drink in Belo Horizonte and Minas Gerais. Other options include Jabuticaba Liqueur, Backer Beer, and Pinga com Mel e Limão.
🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Café Mineiro is a must-try due to Minas Gerais’ excellent coffee. Additionally, savor Suco de Caju (Cashew Juice), Regional Soft Drinks, and Chá de Capim-Limão (Lemongrass Tea).
🚶♂️Walkability: Excellent! Because it’s a small town, you can walk around and see the best places in town!
🎉 Nightlife: If your focus is on nightlife, maybe Varginha isn’t the city for you. However, you’ll find plenty of great bars and places to enjoy with friends and family!
😀 Friendly to Foreigners: When I visited Varginha for the first time, I felt at home! I know you will, too.
🏥 Hospitals: Great! The hospitals in Varginha are excellent. There are both public and private hospitals. If you need them, you’ll be well looked after.
🇺🇸 English speaking: The tourist sites in Varginha have English speakers who will give you a warm welcome.
Varginha TRAVEL GUIDE
Where is Varginha Brazil Located?
Varginha Map
Varginha is located in Minas Gerais, this beautiful and curious city, 318 km (197 miles) from Belo Horizonte. Varginha is the gateway to the Furnas Lake Circuit. It is strategically located halfway between São Paulo and Belo Horizonte.
What State is Varginha In?
Varginha is situated in the Southeast region of Brazil, serving as the capital of the state of Minas Gerais, one of the country’s largest states. Although it lacks beaches, it enjoys proximity to coastal states like Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo. But a word of caution: when visiting Varginha, you might be at risk of falling in love with the city and not wanting to leave!
Varginha Travel Guide
What’s the Closest Airport to Varginha Brazil?
The nearest airport is located in Belo Horizonte/Confins – Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF), 217 miles (350 km) from this wonderful city.
What is the Best Way to Get to Your Varginha Hotel?
After landing at Confins Airport (CNF), you can opt for your favorite transport and spend a day in Belo Horizonte and then head to Varinha. This way, you can rest from your trip and get to know Varginha in the best possible way: rested and full of energy.
This travel guide to Varginha suggests using private transportation for a peaceful and safe experience. However, if you like adventure, there are other options:
Cab: A convenient transportation option that will take you right to the door of your hotel.
Uber is also a safe way to get to your hotel. On the app, you can see the cost of the ride and the route to your hotel in advance.
Rent a car: An option for exploring Varginha further. As with any trip, take the usual precautions, such as clarifying all your doubts about the rental and the contract, to travel worry-free.
💡 Pro Tip: If you are planning to take an Uber, make sure that you have a Brazil SIM card so that your phone operates properly. You never want to depend on free public WIFI for using your ride-share apps.
Varginha Travel Guide
How to Get Around Varginha?
Ride Sharing (top choice): During my visit to Varginha, I exclusively relied on Uber and walked for shorter distances whenever possible. I found this approach both safe and convenient, with minimal hassle.
Rent a Car (top choice): Renting a car can indeed be a great choice, but it’s crucial to ask all the necessary questions before taking the vehicle, including contract and insurance details. Also, ensure you have your valid documents in hand and are prepared to drive on the right side of the road.
Take a Taxi: Taking a taxi is a solid choice. Just ensure the taximeter is on, or if the driver suggests a flat rate, clarify it in advance to avoid any potential issues or overcharging.
Public transportation: In this travel guide, I don’t recommend taking public transportation. Not only are the audible and visual warnings in Portuguese but you’ll easily get lost. Opt for other vehicle, such as Uber or 99 Taxi, for example.
Varginha Travel Guide
When to Go to Varginha?
The city of Varginha has a tropical high-altitude climate characterized by dry, mild winters and hot, rainy summers. Choosing the best time to visit the city can depend on personal preferences and planned activities. I personally like to visit Varginha in the drier seasons, when the sun is shining, showing off all the beauty of this city in Minas Gerais.
Varginha Brazil Summer (December to March): Summer in Varginha is characterized by high temperatures and frequent rainfall. During this season, temperatures can vary between 25°C (77°F) and 35°C (95°F), and on some days they can be even higher. Summer days are ideal for exploring Varginha and enjoying the city to the full. If you also love sunny days, you’ll love exploring Varginha and enjoying the best this city has to offer.
Summer Carnival: Although Varginha is a city in the interior of Minas Gerais, this incredible city has an excellent carnival, such as the “Bloco Super-Família,” the “Sobe e desce” Band, and the Primo Trombini Carnival Orchestra.
Varginha Brazil Fall (April and May): Autumn is a season of transition in Varginha. Temperatures begin to drop, and the frequency of rainfall decreases. The days are predominantly sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).
Varginha Brazil Winter (June to August): Winter in the city is characterized by lower temperatures, especially at night, and is the driest season, with less rainfall. Mornings and evenings are cool, with minimum temperatures near or below 10°C (50°F). During the day, temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Take advantage of the cold weather to taste good wine, buy excellent cheeses at the Central Market, and go hiking.
Varginha, Brazil Spring (September to November): Spring is considered another season of transition in BH. Temperatures start to rise, and the city becomes greener and more floral. Temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), and there are occasional periods of rain during this season. Varginha is wonderful in any season and will not disappoint you.
Varginha Travel Guide
Where to Stay in Varginha Brazil? (By Neighborhood)
Varginha is a city in the state of Minas Gerais, with popular neighborhoods such as Centro, Vila Pinto, Alta Villa, and Rezende. Some of its frequent landmarks include Younique Travel, Subway, Centermed, Eletrônica Elite, and the Escola Mineira de Segurança.
You can easily find excellent hotels and Airbnbs in these neighborhoods. Personally, I really enjoyed staying in the center of Varginha.
Centro (Best Central Location And Nightlife)
The center of Varginha, in addition to having access to all the city’s neighborhoods and avenues, with countless bars, snack bars, and excellent restaurants accessible by various means of transport, also has one of the city’s most exotic monuments: a huge spaceship, representing the supposed spaceship that flew over the city in 1996.
Vila Pinto (Families)
This neighborhood is located close to the center. As well as various places to stay, such as comfortable hotels, you’ll find many safe places for your family.
Alta Vila (Couples)
Do you like bars and nightlife? In this wonderful neighborhood, you’ll find plenty of options to make the most of your trip. Enjoy a variety of drinks and alien-themed food.
Rezende (solo travelers and groups)
Are you looking for a quiet place to stay for you or your group? The “Rezende” neighborhood will be ideal for you. Find several properties on Airbnb in the “Rezende” neighborhood. Safety, mobility, and cleanliness, an excellent location that I would definitely stay in.
Varginha Travel Guide
Best Things to Do in Varginha Brazil
- Furnas Lake: this is an unmissable destination for tourists, offering several leisure options in one place. Known as the “Sea of Minas,” this lake is formed by the dammed waters of the FURNAS hydroelectric plant. With an area of 1,440 km² and a length of 240 km, it runs through 34 municipalities in the state of Minas Gerais. Enjoy Varginha’s hot summer in this paradise.
- Varginha Spaceship: This is a monument in the shape of a spaceship and is located in Rio Branco Square. Built-in 2001, the memorial is an impressive 20 meters high and is famous for its lighting, which creates beautiful plays of color to captivate locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss out on one of Varginha’s most enigmatic sights!
- The Alien of Varginha: In this square, you can also find a nice sculpture of an extraterrestrial, which is quite different from the ones we usually see in movies, isn’t it?
- Zoobotanical Park and Zoo: Varginha’s Zoobotanical Park is an incredible place to explore the region’s biodiversity. With a wide variety of animal and plant species, the park offers a true outdoor ecology learning experience.
- Enigmatic Land Where ET Was Sighted: the site, which is on Rua Benevenuto Braz Vieira, is currently closed and shows no evidence of the alleged appearance of the extraterrestrial, apart from graffiti on the wall with the inscription “ETvia” and an arrow.
- ET Memorial: This site has an educational purpose, with a planetarium that shows educational films and offers a history of the ET case in Varginha. The narrative is presented through suspended panels and videos on nine televisions, which are installed in the hands of playful ETs created by artist Gleiber Piva.
- Statue of the “Real” ET: In the city center, you can also find two other statues of aliens in the José Rezende de Paiva square. These monuments were built based on rough accounts of what the creatures that supposedly appeared in the city looked like.
- City Hall With Ship-Shaped Elevator: Varginha’s City Hall building is also one of the places to visit on a tour of the city, especially dedicated to the ET theme. The municipal administration building has an elevator that alludes to an abduction, with a spaceship at the top and the passage through the floors symbolizing the journey to the supposed OVINI (Unidentified Flying Object).
- Spaceship-shaped airport: Although it is not possible to take off spaceships from Varginha airport, departures take place in a building that resembles an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO). The airport is shaped like a spaceship, referring to the alleged ET apparition, making it one of the points of interest to visit in the city.
Varginha Travel Guide
Best Varginha Tours
In addition to the many alien-themed sites you can visit, Varginha also has a number of tourist attractions where you can take a variety of tours. When I visited Varginha, I enjoyed hiking and other activities involving nature, mummies, and zoos.
💡Pro Tip: It’s a great approach to explore different neighborhoods when you’re planning to spend more than four days in a new place. This way, you can get a sense of the entire area and decide where you’d like to spend more of your time. It’s always disappointing to discover a fantastic spot with only half a day left in town.
Here are the top tours for Varginha:
- The Capitólio Municipal Theater: conceived by industrialist José Navarra and designed by engineer Frisoti Agostini, was built by brothers Antônio and Celestino Pires and inaugurated in 1927. The decoration of the façade and interior, representative of the eclectic style of the time, is credited to the Italian Alexandre Valatti.
- Municipal Museum: Inaugurated on April 26, 2000, the Varginha Municipal Museum houses a vast collection of thousands of pieces, offering a window into the history and memory of the region. In addition, the museum promotes exhibitions and workshops with the aim of providing the public with information, culture, and learning opportunities.
- Morro do Chapéu: Take an incredible hike to the top of one of the largest and most beautiful hills in Varginha.
- Eco Tours: Every Varginha travel guide will tell you how Ibirapuera Park is a must. Not all of them will ask you to book a tour to check all the best spots in it for a rather reasonable price.
- Photo Tours: Another awesome thing you can do is to hire a tour with a private photographer to register your moments while out in town.
- Metropolitan Area Tours: If you want to explore a little further, schedule a tour for another nearby town. The Vargnha area is full of quaint little towns to explore.
- Private Custom Tours: If you want to personalize your experience a little further, go for a private custom tour. This way, you’re able to make your own plans and follow your own beat, with the advantage of not having to worry about a group.
Varginha Travel Guide
Is Varginha Safe for Tourists?
Varginha came third in the latest survey by the 2023 Yearbook – Brazil’s Safest Cities, published in August. The city stood out as the third safest in Minas Gerais among those with more than 100,000 inhabitants.
In any case, follow some tips that I take with me on all my trips, such as: don’t carry your cell phone in your hand in deserted places, don’t drive in unfamiliar places at night, especially deserted streets, and above all: don’t walk alone in the early hours of the morning.
💡Here Are My Pro Safety Tips For Every City You Travel To:
- Be vigilant with your belongings: Just like in any city you visit, it’s essential to keep an eye on your personal items, such as bags, wallets, smartphones, and watches. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.
- Avoid risky areas: Don’t assume that an area is safe just because it’s a tourist destination. Petty theft can occur in such places. It’s advisable to steer clear of unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night, as they may have higher crime rates.
- Choose safe transportation: Opt for trusted taxi services or highly rated Uber for traveling around the city at night instead of walking in unfamiliar areas.
- Conceal valuable items: Try not to flaunt valuables like expensive jewelry, cameras, and watches in public places, as this can attract unwanted attention.
- Local information: Seek advice from your hotel about safe areas to visit and places to avoid which may be considered risky.
- Emergency information: Keep emergency contact numbers, such as those for the police and medical services, handy in case you need them.
- Be cautious in traffic: Be aware that traffic in Belo Horizonte can be chaotic. Exercise caution when crossing streets or while driving, use crosswalks, and adhere to road signs.
Absolutely, taking precautions during your travels is essential, regardless of your destination. While Belo Horizonte is generally a safe city for tourists, it’s crucial to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and follow safety measures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Your safety and peace of mind should always be a top priority when exploring new places.
In this travel guide, I recommend that you read and re-read all the precautions and tips. This will be useful for your trips to Varginha, Belo Horizonte, Rio de Janeiro, Paris, and anywhere else in the world. Stay tuned!
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 Varginha 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 Varginha, 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:
✅ 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.
✅ 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.
✅ Travel Insurance Master: Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies.
Varginha Travel Guide
Varginha Travel: Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drink the water in Varginha Brazil?
Straight from the tap is a massive NO.
No matter which Varginha travel guide you consult, they will all tell you not to drink unfiltered tap water. Generally, it’s safe for general use, such as brushing your teeth or taking a shower, but it’s not worth risking drinking it.
You can use tap water for brushing your teeth, showering, etc. However, when it comes to drinking, I would recommend using a reusable bottle that you can refill or buying bottled water when necessary.
That said, many restaurants in Varginha offer “água da casa,” which is filtered water for customers and is used to make ice, so you’re safe. Make sure you ask at the restaurant, and if they don’t have it, you can always opt for bottled water during your stay.
Also, always remember to check the weather, as the Brazilian sun can be very strong, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Getting sick should be the last thing on your list of things to do during your trip.
So Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:
- In an AirBnb, boil the water if you do not have bottled water or a filter.
- In a hotel with no filter, buy bottled water, but this can get expensive.
- Get a reusable water bottle that you can refill. And since refilling is free, you don’t have to worry about something so simple to solve while in Varginha, Brazil. Consider bringing along a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
What’s the Varginha Weather Like?
Varginha, Minas Gerais, has a very pleasant subtropical climate. When I was visiting this place, I really enjoyed the nights with completely clear skies, a strong breeze, and a very pleasant warmth, ideal for sipping a cold drink.
The average temperature in Varginha during the winter varies between 14°C (57.2°F) and 25°C (77°F), reaching 10°C (50°F) or less on the coldest nights. During the summer months, temperatures generally range between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F), and even higher.
Is Varginha Expensive?
Varginha is definitely not an expensive city to visit. Most of the tours or alien artworks mentioned above are free and open to the general public. I, as a good adventurer, opted to pay for a guide during the hikes I took to Morro do Hat. I recommend you do the same.
In addition to transportation, car rental, and accommodation being very affordable for all types of travelers, one of the main things for you, my dear fellow traveler, is very reasonable in Varginha: food. After all, how can you enjoy your adventure without access to good food? And good food isn’t always cheap. It tends to be very expensive all over the world. However, in Varginha, you’ll eat a lot and not spend a lot of money.
Is Varginha Worth Visiting?
Varginha holds a special place in my heart. Varginha is known for its hospitality. The locals are very friendly and always willing to help with information. Ask about the stories of the aliens who visited the city in 1996 and be prepared for a long conversation full of tales of “close relatives” who know someone who witnessed the otherworldly incident.
Varginha’s rich culture and fascinating history are like treasures to be discovered. The historical museums and churches tell stories that captivate and offer a deep insight into the heritage of Minas Gerais.
The cuisine of Minas Gerais is a real feast for all the senses. There are so many authentic flavors, from warm pão de queijo, excellent coffees, bolinho de chuva, and even more traditional dishes. You will fall in love with the cuisine of these lands.
So, when planning your visit to Belo Horizonte, know that you are about to get involved with a city that has so much to offer, and you will be greeted with many warm smiles.
How Many Days Do I Need in Varginha Brazil?
The last time I was in Varginha, I spent 3 days in this curious city. In this travel guide, I’m not going to be biased and tell you to spend 1 or 2 weeks exploring all the possibilities, tours, and sights.
Honestly, three days is more than enough to enjoy all of Varginha’s attractions. You’ll be able to visit all the points related to the ufological incident, ecological tours, and even the municipal zoo.
General Varginha, Brazil Travel Info & FAQ
🌞 Varginha Weather
The climate in Varginha is like a warm embrace that surrounds the city all year round. With its four well-defined seasons, the city offers something for everyone, no matter when you visit.
During the summer, Varginha has hot, sunny days with little rain. Autumn has a smooth transition with pleasant temperatures. In winter, temperatures drop, and you can enjoy colder weather. And when spring arrives, Varginha is bright and blooming.
In all seasons, Varginha warmly welcomes all its visitors. Whatever season you choose to visit, this city will captivate your heart and leave memories that will last forever.
💰 Brazil Currency
Brazil’s official currency is the Brazilian real, indicated by BRL or R$. Nowadays, credit and debit cards are widely accepted almost everywhere, but this Varginha travel guide advises you to have some cash on you, as there may be street markets or specific places selling handicrafts. It would be a shame to miss out on something like this because you don’t have cash on you.
🗣️ Brazil Language
Since Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, both in Varginha and all through the country, this is what you’re most likely to hear in the streets.
Yes, English is around in several tourist spots and hotels, but this Varginha travel guide recommends learning a few things in the native language. Just a few sentences in Portuguese can go a long way toward integrating you with this amazing place.
If you want to learn a bit of Portuguese prior to going, DuoLingo and Pimsleur are great tools to use.
🛫 Varginha Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season
Varginha Busy Season: The busiest times in Varginha are in the summer. Remember that the climate in Brazil is the opposite of North America. From December to January, you’ll find more tourists in the city.
Varginha Slow Season: From March to September, you’ll find fewer tourists in Varginha. This doesn’t mean that these times are bad for visiting the city, but if you’re a traveler like me who likes less queuing and waiting, this is the ideal time for you to travel here!
Varginha Shoulder Season: You’ll find these lands in the middle of October, with visitors mainly in the ecotour area. Choose wisely when you want to visit Varginha. I would remind you in this travel guide that the prices of food and amenities do not vary significantly to the point of making it impossible for you to travel to the “Mineiras” lands.
Do I Need a Visa for Brazil?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Section 2: European Union (EU) Nationals
For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil.
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.
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?
Packing a suitcase that’s too big and taking non-essentials to the other side of the world can be one of the worst experiences. Likewise, needing something and not having it can ruin anyone’s mood.
Therefore, when packing for a trip to Brazil or any other destination, it is advisable to do so in advance! Take only what is necessary to avoid carrying excessively heavy luggage.
Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs:
🔌 Power Adapters: Brazil uses type C and N sockets, which can be a nuisance if you don’t plan ahead. Buy the right adapters for your devices in advance to avoid running around and wasting time when you get there. Having a power bank (portable charger) is a real lifesaver for crucial moments. Make sure you include at least one in your luggage; it can be an essential resource when you need it most. Additionally, consider bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with various outlets during your travels..
📳 Brazil and Florianopolis SIM Card: You know that being connected is essential, even more so when traveling abroad. Don’t forget to get a Brazilian or Varginha-specific SIM card to communicate and access the internet. This is a must-have if you plan to rely on Google Maps, Uber, or similar things. Brazil’s most common SIM card operators are Tim, Claro, Oi, and Vivo.
💧 Filterable Water Bottle: Tap water in Varginha is generally safe for use but definitely not for drinking. Be like me, and carry a reusable water bottle everywhere you go! Consider bringing a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: Varginha’s nightlife is a sight to see! But you don’t want to waste an entire day out of your time with a hangover. So, include some anti-hangover meds in your first aid kit.
👒 Sun Protection: The Brazilian sun is no joke, so don’t underestimate it! I recommend you pack a high-SPF sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself or budget to get them here. Just a short time in the sun can make your next few days unpleasant; trust a person who’s had sunburns literally in the head.
🦟 Bug Repellent:
By now, you know that Brazil is a tropical country, and, depending on where you go, you’ll have plenty of insects and mosquitoes to keep you company. A repellent is, therefore, a necessary item. After all, nobody likes to feel itchy all the time or run the risk of contracting diseases such as dengue fever. Consider using an eco-friendly bug repellent to protect yourself while minimizing environmental impact.
🩴 Comfortable Footwear: Don’t forget you will cross many terrains here. Pack comfy shoes for walking, sandals, flip-flops, and whatever else you think is going to be necessary.
📄 Travel Documents: Remember all the documents you need, such as your passport, visa (if necessary), travel insurance documents, and anything else. Also, have copies of everything in case any documents are lost or stolen. This will help avoid frustration and allow you to make the most of your trip.
As for the rest of your packing, just keep in mind to pack appropriate clothing for the season you’re traveling to Varginha. You can change this list to fit your heart’s desires so long as you plan to have a great time!
Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Varginha Brazil?
You can easily rent a car in Varginha. If you prefer, you can opt to rent a car in Belo Horizonte because there are so many car rental companies to choose from.
Although Brazilian traffic rules can seem a little complicated, navigating Varginha is generally smooth. Most of the road signs are in Portuguese, but don’t worry – your GPS in the rental car or Google Maps on your cell phone will give you directions in your language.
Remember that in Brazil, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Make sure you have good insurance for the rental car to travel with peace of mind; this can be easily arranged through the car rental company.
An important legal note for this travel guide: the minimum age for renting a car is usually 21, but some categories, such as luxury vehicles, may require a higher minimum age due to a higher risk of accidents.
When parking, always remember to lock the car and ensure that no personal belongings are visible.
Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?
Absolutely not! You don’t need to speak Portuguese to enjoy your trip to Brazil. In places frequented by tourists, such as Varginha, you will find many locals, especially in the hospitality sector, who can converse in English.
That said, learning a few simple phrases in Portuguese can add value to your travel adventure by enhancing your interactions with the local culture. This proves useful in situations where English may not be widely spoken. Language apps, such as DuoLingo, are fantastic, easy-to-use resources to start learning before your journey.
In this travel guide, I strongly suggest that having some knowledge of the local language can profoundly enhance your travel experience. It opens up opportunities to deeply understand the local culture, interact with people, understand their customs, and get fully involved in the cultural festivities.
Here Are Some Great Language Preparation Options for Your Trip to Brazil:
Learn Basic Portuguese: Consider exploring language-learning platforms such as Duolingo or Pimsleur. They provide interactive courses to enhance your confidence and conversational abilities in Portuguese prior to your journey. This is a wonderful way to prepare for a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
Use Google Translate App: This one can be a lifesaver when it comes to navigating language barriers. Remember, it works online, so you will also need a Brazilian SIM card with plenty of data available.
Get a Portuguese Phrasebook: Including a Portuguese phrasebook, such as the Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook, in your packing is an excellent idea. It serves as a wonderful non-digital tool to assist you in communicating and understanding the local language more effectively.
Even if you don’t achieve fluency, having some fundamental knowledge of the local language will certainly enrich your travel experience in Varginha, Brazil. Locals always appreciate your effort, no matter how small, when they see you’ve tried.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel?
Yes, Brazil can be safe for female solo travelers, but, as anywhere in the world, it’s important to take precautions.
Safety in Brazil varies based on factors such as location, time of year, preparation, and personal behavior. The various regions of Brazil have different levels of security, so doing research and planning is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Carrying out extensive research into your destination before your trip is a valuable tip. Be aware of areas that may pose security risks and avoid them whenever possible.
Practicing common-sense safety involves staying in highly-rated accommodations, booking tours online, avoiding isolated areas, and being aware of your surroundings. Your safety is the top priority!
Also, avoid showing off flashy items and respect local customs and dress codes. Using reliable transportation services, such as ride-hailing apps or car rentals, can improve your safety when traveling.
In this travel guide, we emphasize the importance of keeping in touch with friends or family and informing them of your plans for added security.
Traveling alone in Brazil, especially in Varginha, can be an incredible adventure with the right preparation. Don’t miss out! Come and discover Varginha and understand why we are so enthusiastic about this destination.
