Belo Horizonte

Argentina has always been the land of cattle, open spaces and the Argentinian institution "the estancia", a large estate ranch. Most estancias, many with luxurious estate houses, are found in the Pampean plains, which got their name from the Quechua Indian word for "flatland". Spread out the to the north, south and west, these extensive plains were inhabited by gauchos, decendants of Spanish Conquistadors, and the indomitable aboriginies of the land. They were experts with "boleadoras" (three rock hard leather balls tied to a rope and used for hunting), lassos, the "facon" (gaucho knives), and the guitar. A few of the more elegant estancias are open to the more sophisticated traveler. Visits to these beautiful colonial ranches usually features horseback riding, wildlife watching, hiking and the general day to day farm activities of the property. There are certain estancieas that are recommended for the foreign visitor and these listed here are but a few. For information of additional estancias, contact the experts at Marco Polo Vacations. (Estancia packages normally require a minimum stay of 2 nights).

Recommended Hotels

Othon Palace Hotel

The Belo Horizonte Othon is a hotel of international standing, surrounded by traditional native hospitality.

Ouro Minas Palace Hotel

A modern atrium hotel situated next to two shopping malls in the center of town.

Belo Horizonte & Ouro Preto 3 Days / 2 Nights Daily Departures

Day 1 - Arrive Belo Horizonte - Meeting upon arrival at the airport and transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is at leisure.

Day 2 - Ouro Preto - Full day guided tour to the charming and, perfectly preserved 18th century colonial city of Ouro Preto. This was the center of Brazil’s late 17th century gold rush during which time the town it acquired its name of "Oro Preto" (Black Gold). This is home to some of the most significant artistic and historical treasures of Brazil where you will find the purest collection of Baroque art and colonial architecture. In 1981 UNESC declared Ouro Preto as a "world cultural monument". Your tour will include St. Francis of Assisi Church, containing works by the noted artist Alejadinho and his associate, the painter Ataide; our lady of Pillar Church; the Mineralogy Museum; and the Rebellion Museum, housing sacred art (closed on Monday and mornings). Lunch is served en route. Late afternoon return to Belo Horizonte for overnight.

Day 3 - Depart Belo Horizonte - Transfer from the hotel to the airport.

Half Day Excursions

Belo Horizonte City Tour

Belo Horizonte is famous for the mining of precious stones. Visit the Museum of Modern Art that was originally a casino and the Church of Sao Francisco, with paintings and mosaics by Portinari. Belo Horizonte, in man ways, is characterized b its modern art as seen in the Niemeyer-designed Chapel. The tiled exterior and interior are so unusual in design that the Catholic Church refused to consecrate it for may years.

Full Day Excursions

Ouro Preto ("Black Gold")

View of Colonial Ouro Preto

The city, a colonial gem, was decreed a National Museum in 1933. A perfectly preserved 18th-century town, it is rich in historical interest and tradition. The charming old buildings and their lovely gardens were built on hilly. cobblestoned streets. There are many truly fine churches and a wealth of art - particularly that of the crippled sculptor Aleijadinho.