Sao Thome das Letras

Travelers head to this elevated town for its distinct architecture, where houses, streets, and churches are constructed from stacked slabs of São Thomé stone. The town has a strong esoteric reputation, drawing visitors interested in UFO sightings, spiritual retreats, and mystical legends. The surrounding landscape features dozens of waterfalls, including the popular Véu de Noiva and Vale das Borboletas, which are accessed via dirt roads. One of the main local attractions is the Ladeira do Amendoim, an optical illusion hill where cars in neutral gear appear to roll uphill. The Casa da Pirâmide, an abandoned stone structure at the town's highest point, is the traditional gathering spot for watching the sunset over the valley. The local cuisine features hearty Minas Gerais dishes, including pão de queijo and slow-cooked pork. The town is situated 350 kilometers from Belo Horizonte and requires a steep drive up the mountain to reach the center. The dry winter months from May to August are the best time to visit, offering clear skies for stargazing and hiking without the risk of heavy summer rains. Nights can be very cold due to the altitude.

Nearby cities

Belo Horizonte

The capital of Minas Gerais, surrounded by mountains and famous for its traditional bars (Botecos).

Contagem

A highly industrialized city directly adjacent to Belo Horizonte and an important economic engine of the state.

Juiz de Fora

An important industrial and university city in southeastern Minas Gerais with strong historical ties to Rio de Janeiro.

Uberlândia

The most important city in the so-called Triângulo Mineiro, known as a strong location for agribusiness and logistics.

Caxambu

Caxambu is a traditional spa town famous for its therapeutic mineral water springs and grand 19th-century architecture.

Betim

A highly industrialized city next to Belo Horizonte, where some of the largest factories in Brazil are located.

Montes Claros

The largest city in northern Minas Gerais, an important regional center connecting the south and northeast of Brazil.

History & landmarks

Mineirão Stadium

The largest football stadium in the state of Minas Gerais and one of Brazil's most important sports temples.

More places

São João del-Rei

São João del Rei is a historic city in Minas Gerais with strong ties to Brazil's colonial gold era.

Tiradentes

Tiradentes is a well-preserved colonial town in Minas Gerais named after Brazil's national independence hero.

Sanctuary of Congonhas

The Sanctuary of Congonhas is a major pilgrimage site in Minas Gerais and one of Brazil's best-known Baroque ensembles.

Betim Automotive Plant

One of the largest automotive manufacturing plants in the world, playing a crucial role in Brazil's industrial sector.

Fazenda São João Coffee Farm

A traditional coffee farm in southern Minas Gerais offering authentic insights into Brazilian coffee production.

Ouro Branco Steelworks

A massive steel manufacturing complex operated by Gerdau, strategically placed near abundant mineral resources.

Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte

A vast park complex encompassing a zoo, a botanical garden, and a Japanese thematic area.

Sabará

A historic city near Belo Horizonte, known for its Baroque heritage and the Jabuticaba festival.