Ouro Preto, a jewel of colonial Brazil, is where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge in perfect harmony. Nestled among the emerald hills of Minas Gerais, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the great highlights of our Grand Rail Tour of Brazil.
With its cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and rich mining heritage, Ouro Preto offers a captivating glimpse into Brazil’s golden past — a place where the echoes of empire still linger, and every corner tells a story of faith, art, and ambition.
Ouro Preto, meaning “Black Gold,” lies in southeastern Brazil, about 100 kilometers from Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais. During the 18th century, this once-remote mountain town became the epicenter of the Brazilian Gold Rush, producing nearly half of the world’s gold at its peak.
Today, Ouro Preto’s well-preserved colonial architecture — whitewashed façades, red-tiled roofs, and ornate church towers — stands as a timeless monument to the riches and artistry of that era. Encircled by green mountains and misty valleys, it is as much a cultural treasure as it is a natural paradise.
On our Grand Rail Tour of Brazil, we reach Ouro Preto from Belo Horizonte on a scenic two-hour drive through the rolling hills of Minas Gerais. The journey unfolds like a painting — with mountain ridges, coffee farms, and tiny villages dotting the countryside.
For travelers arriving independently, Ouro Preto can also be accessed from Rio de Janeiro via a delightful two-day overland route. Along the way, we recommend a stop in Tiradentes or São João del Rei — both beautifully preserved colonial towns with lively squares, artisan markets, and charming inns. This makes for a perfect prelude to the grandeur of Ouro Preto.
Ouro Preto is a vibrant tapestry of Brazil’s colonial past and cultural pride. Its streets, churches, and museums reveal centuries of craftsmanship and devotion.
Wander through the cobbled lanes of Ouro Preto’s historic center, where each turn reveals a new surprise — pastel-colored houses, wrought-iron balconies, and bustling cafés. The Praça Tiradentes is the town’s beating heart, honoring Tiradentes, the martyred hero of Brazil’s independence movement.
Ouro Preto’s skyline is dominated by its baroque churches, among the finest in Latin America. The Church of SĂŁo Francisco de Assis, with carvings by Aleijadinho and frescoes by Mestre AtaĂde, is a masterpiece of colonial art. Nearby, the Church of Our Lady of Pilar dazzles visitors with its golden interior — adorned with nearly 400 kilograms of gold leaf.
The Museum of the Inconfidência, housed in the former colonial jail, recounts the story of Brazil’s struggle for freedom. Meanwhile, the Museum of Mineralogy celebrates the geological wealth that fueled Ouro Preto’s rise during the gold boom.
At Ouro Preto’s lively artisan markets, you’ll find exquisite soapstone carvings, jewelry, and handmade crafts — each reflecting the creative spirit of Minas Gerais. These markets are ideal for bringing home a meaningful memento of your journey.
Just beyond the town, the Parque Estadual do Itacolomi offers hiking trails leading to panoramic lookouts and pristine waterfalls. For a closer view of Ouro Preto itself, the Mirante do Morro SĂŁo SebastiĂŁo rewards hikers with one of the most photogenic vistas in Brazil.
Ouro Preto’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. Taste traditional dishes like pão de queijo (cheese bread) and feijão tropeiro (beans with sausage and manioc), or enjoy a sip of locally distilled cachaça in one of the town’s cozy taverns.
Our journey from Ouro Preto to Mariana, another colonial gem, used to include a historic train ride — a nostalgic journey through the valleys of Minas Gerais. Although the train has yet to resume service, we now make this picturesque trip by car, still allowing ample time to enjoy the views and visit Mariana’s charming squares and the fascinating Passagem Mine, one of the oldest gold mines in the Americas.
Our guests stay at the Hotel Pousada do Arcanjo, a beautifully restored property that blends colonial charm with modern comfort. With its tranquil atmosphere and easy access to the main attractions, it’s the perfect retreat after a day of exploration.
For those wishing to stay right in the heart of the historic center, Pousada Clássica offers a cozy, boutique-style experience with personalized service and authentic Minas hospitality.
Ouro Preto is more than just a stop — it’s a journey into the soul of Brazil’s golden past. On our Grand Rail Tour of Brazil, you’ll discover the country’s diverse landscapes and living history: from Salvador da Bahia’s Afro-Brazilian rhythms to Rio’s coastal splendor, from the Vitoria–Belo Horizonte railway to the Serra Verde Express through lush Atlantic rainforest.
In Ouro Preto, time slows down, beauty deepens, and history becomes tangible.
Join us on this extraordinary 17-day journey — where the rails connect Brazil’s most beautiful destinations, and every stop tells a story worth remembering.
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