Brazil Travel Packages: Sao Joao del Rei

Situated in the mountains of Serra da Mantiqueira in the state of Minas Gerais, Sao Joao del Rei is about 3,000 feet (900 meters) above sea level and is currently home to just over 90,000 inhabitants. Among the rural towns in the hinterland, Sao Joao del Rei is economically well developed and the population sustains itself from mining, local industry and tourism. The city has consciously preserved its baroque heritage, with its venerable churches and well-kept streets, and is delighted with the increasing number of visitors. The first Brazilian civil war was triggered in this historical town at the beginning of the 18th century, in which the local owners of the gold mines rose up against the Portuguese colonial power under the leadership of the bandeirantes. Bandeirantes were the members of Portuguese expeditionary troops who searched for gold and precious stones in the interior of Brazil. After these troops were defeated, the city got its name in honor of the King of Portugal in that era, John V. Apart from the historical sights, visitors appreciate the typical "mineira" cuisine. Rich and varied like no other in the country, the dishes from Minais Gerais are known throughout Brazil. Sweet dishes with "Queijo Minas," a type of cream cheese, should certainly not be missed. The nature of the region impresses visitors with the dense Mata Atlantica, an important ecosystem of high biodiversity in the canyons and valleys. On the slopes and altitudes of Serra da Mantiqueira, the Cerrado (Brazilian grasslands) vegetation grows with natural meadows and araucaria forests. Sao Joao del Rei is best reached via Belo Horizonte or Rio de Janeiro. The city and the surrounding area can be explored on your own, with a guide who knows the area or on a rental car tour.

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