Although the interior of São Paulo is home to hundreds of incredible destinations, we at São Paulo Secreto also love exploring our neighboring states. That’s why today we’re bringing you a guide on what to do in Cambuquira, a city in Minas Gerais located about 300 kilometers from the capital of São Paulo.
You might be wondering: why travel four hours just to visit a small town of 12,000 people in Minas Gerais? The truth is that little Cambuquira stands out precisely because of its simplicity and distance from major tourist hubs. Plus, it’s closer than cities in São Paulo like Bauru, Olímpia, and Ribeirão Preto.
Rich in medicinal waters, Cambuquira offers thermal baths and excellent wellness attractions at more reasonable prices than destinations in São Paulo. Furthermore, it’s an opportunity to experience the hearty cuisine and the warmth of the people of Minas Gerais, who are nationally known for being laid-back and welcoming.
The “City of Waters” is located in southern Minas Gerais, very close to São Paulo
The region gained fame in the 19th century, when it began welcoming travelers in search of its “miraculous” waters. Today, it’s part of the Minas Gerais Water Circuit alongside neighboring São Lourenço and Caxambu— the latter, in turn, is home to the world’s largest hydromineral complex and helped heal members of Brazil’s former imperial family.
Cambuquira boasts seven springs with different chemical compositions (such as iron-rich, sulfurous, and alkaline waters) that aid digestion, support kidney treatments, and promote skin care. There’s also a naturally carbonated spring where tourists can drink straight from the source!
What to do in Cambuquira, MG?
If you want to relax this winter, it’s worth visiting Parque das Águas de Cambuquira. There, visitors will find healing mineral springs, gardens, a lake with paddleboats, and an outdoor gym. The park is also home to Spa das Águas, which offers massages, soaking baths, beauty treatments, and other wellness services.
However, Cambuquira isn’t just about hot springs. Pico do Piripau is located in the countryside and is one of the city’s highest points, making it ideal for camping, paragliding, and watching the sunset. You can also visit the Lavender Field or the local farms, which offer guided tours, hiking trails, and coffee tastings.
So, have we convinced you to cross the state line and discover the wonders of Cambuquira? If you’re still on the fence, check out the complete list of the city’s attractions on the Circuito de Águas Mineiro website. We guarantee you won’t regret this adventure!
