Things To Do
in Maria da Fé
Maria da Fé is a highland town in Minas Gerais renowned for its cool climate and scenic Serra da Mantiqueira landscapes. Nestled among rolling hills and pine forests, the town embraces a rural charm centered on strawberry farming and agritourism. Its colonial architecture, tranquil streets, and viewpoints offer a relaxed escape from larger cities.
Visitors enjoy fresh produce, rustic Minas cuisine, and easy access to nature and panoramic vistas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Maria da Fé and check into your cozy accommodation, surrounded by the lush mountain landscape. Take the time to settle in and unwind, enjoying a warm cup of coffee made from local beans. Explore the vicinity and get acquainted with this charming town's unique vibes.
Visit the quaint local market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods, immersing yourself in the local culture. Stroll through the streets adorned with beautiful colonial architecture and find a lovely café for lunch. Enjoy the serene environment, as you watch the world go by at a leisurely pace.
Dine at a traditional Brazilian restaurant, tasting local specialties while enjoying the rustic ambiance. Reflect on your day under the starry skies, perhaps joining locals who gather to share stories and laughter. Wind down your evening with a soothing walk through the town, taking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Embrace the morning by exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of Parque Naturais da Serra do Papagaio. Engage in a guided hike that showcases the stunning flora and fauna native to the region. Take plenty of photos as nature unfolds in its most vibrant form.
After hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene landscapes, soaking in the tranquil sounds of nature. Spend your afternoon exploring the park’s numerous viewpoints, where you can marvel at the panoramic vistas of the mountains. Capture the rugged beauty that surrounds you while taking some time for reflection.
Return to town and indulge in a comforting meal at a local eatery, perhaps trying out a savory feijoada. Engage with friendly locals to learn their stories, creating a deeper connection to this enchanting place. Relax by the fire, if available, as live music fills the warm evening air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee and snack | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-16 |
| 🧀Local cheese and bread | $3-6 |
| 🍓Strawberries (1 kg) | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic mountain scenery and fresh-air escape from big cities
- Excellent strawberry produce and rustic Minas cuisine
- Relaxed pace and welcoming local culture
- Varied outdoor activities suitable for families
- Small town amenities and limited nightlife
- Distances to larger cities require planning for longer trips
- Healthcare options are more limited than in bigger urban centers
- Seasonal weather can bring rain and chill
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Você pode ajudar?" - Can you help?
- "Eu sou vegetariano(a)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Maria da Fé
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of valleys, forests, and rolling hills especially at sunrise or sunset.
Historic streets and colonial-era buildings ideal for architectural photography and street scenes.
Fields of strawberry crops bathed in golden light, perfect for wide-angle shots of fields and distant hills.
Small chapel with a scenic backdrop; a quiet spot for portrait photography and religious architecture.
Food in Maria da Fé
Maria da Fé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Chewy cheese bread best enjoyed warm from a bakery or cafe; widely available in town.
Must-Try!
A traditional mix of beans, farofa, sausage, and eggs; try it at a family-style restaurant or festa menu.
Local queijo Minas paired with doce de leite; commonly served as a simple snack or dessert.
Fresh strawberries and strawberry ice cream or sorbet from market stalls or ice cream shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh strawberries, cheeses, artisanal breads, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or light kiss on the cheek is common among friends; address older people as Senhor/Senhora and use polite language.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud public displays of anger; value personal space in queues.
Small talk about weather, family, and local produce; ask permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Maria da Fé
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated but optional.
Most places accept cash and cards; smaller markets may prefer cash; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing nights; afternoon rains are possible; strawberries are ripe and farms host tastings.
Cooler temperatures and clear skies; perfect for hiking and fall colors in the forests; harvest season continues.
Chillier air and night-time temps near freezing; warm up with hearty Minas meals; misty mornings add atmosphere to photos.
Mild weather and blooming landscapes; strawberry fields are in harvest; trails are lush and green.
Maria da Fé at Night
Hiking in Maria da Fé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several hiking routes with panoramic views over valleys and forests; varying difficulty.
Gentle trails through pine and eucalyptus forests near cultivated lands.
Short hikes to viewpoints that overlook the town and surrounding farmland.
Airports
How to reach Maria da Fé by plane.
Major international gateway near São Paulo; broad flight options and connections.
Airport in Campinas with domestic and some international flights; convenient for travelers from the southeast.
Primary airport serving Belo Horizonte; a common entry point for visitors heading to the Mantiqueira region.
Regional airport serving the area; convenient for shorter drives to Maria da Fé.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Brazilian families and retirees; a significant portion of seasonal agricultural workers and small farmers.
Weekend visitors from nearby urban centers seeking nature and strawberry harvest experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played casually in streets and organized leagues.
Popular activities along Serra da Mantiqueira with scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maria da Fé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; ask for queijo minas and legumes, with saladas and pão de queijo as core choices; look for farm-to-table eateries that emphasize vegetables.