'''Minas Gerais''' is a state in Brazil's Southeast region.

Regions

  • Central
  • Central West (''Centro-oeste'')
  • Jequitinhonha-Mucuri
  • Mata
  • North (''Norte'')
  • Northwest (''Noroeste'')
  • Paranaiba
  • Rio Doce
  • South (''Sul'')
  • Triangulo (''Triangulo'')
  • Cities

  • Belo Horizonte -- the state's capital, a cultural and economic metropolis
  • Congonhas
  • Diamantina -- famous for its diamonds, its music and 18th century architecture
  • Ouro Preto -- the most important Brazilian ensemble of Baroque architecture, a World Heritage Site
  • Juiz de Fora -- an industrial and university center located between Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte, hosts an important festival of Baroque music
  • Sao Joao del Rei -- the largest colonial town
  • Tiradentes -- A charming small colonial town
  • Other destinations

  • Caraca
  • Understand

    "Minas Gerais" means "General Mines", so called because of the various mines in the area. Some still operate; in February 2006 a ring of diamond smugglers, passing off diamonds from Minas as if they were South African, was broken up.

    Electricity

    Electricity in Minas Gerais is 110 V 60 Hz, but there may be 220 V outlets, so ask. Plugs have two round prongs about 2 cm apart, but outlets that also handle US plugs are common in places frequented by tourists, such as hotels and LAN houses.

    Talk

    Mineiros speak Portuguese like other Brazilians, but the Mineiro ''accent'' can be difficult to understand. If someone's speech sounds like a jumble of sounds, try saying ''Pode falar devagar, por favor?'', middle-class young people usually speak at least some english.

    Get in

    Get around

    See

    Itineraries

    Do

    Eat

    Minas traditional cousine is unique but was mainly influenced by the Portuguese.

  • If you go to Belo Horizonte you should visit the restaurant "Maria das Trancas", another great option is "Engenho de Minas".
  • Drink

    Stay safe

    Get out