Rio Novo

During the 18th century, after the gold deposits in the Pomba and Paraibuna rivers were exhausted, miners left in search of other places to farm or mine. They arrived on the banks of a river and settled there, built a village on the surrounding patch of fertile land, and named their new home Rio Novo.

The region is home to a variety of waterfalls, with the Calixto fall being the most popular during carnival time. The carnival offers Drag Queen competitions and trio elétrico (a special truck with a PA system and equipment for live music), among other celebratory activities. Other attractions in Rio Novo include the Rio Novo Historic Museum, the Historic Centre, the farms of Santa Felicidade, Bela Vista and Nova Era, and the Portela fishing spot, as well as the churches of Matriz Nossa Senhora da Conceição, São Sebastião, Senhor dos Passos, and Matriz Nossa Senhora Aparecida.

Travel Tips: Bloco do Zé Pereira is the oldest traditional event in the area and takes place 40 days before the carnival. The festival has been celebrated for over a century and was described as an invaluable cultural asset of Rio Novo by the IEPHA-MG. The Portela fishing spot is a peaceful area surrounded by natural forest, and is ideal for rest and contemplation. Visitors can also follow the trail leading to the Santa waterfall for a refreshing dip. The Nova Era Farm offers guide services, scheduled tours and horse rides, and any required equipment can be hired here