Caraça Sanctuary Excursion

While visiting Ouro Preto, experiencing a trip to the Caraça Sanctuary in Catas Altas is essential. This expedition takes you to a substantial religious site enveloped by vibrant greenery. Are you ready for this adventure?

Description

We'll begin our journey to the Caraça Sanctuary by picking you up from your accommodation in Ouro Preto. Our route leads us to the town of Catas Altas located in the heart of Minas Gerais.

After approximately two hours of travel, we'll arrive, offering you our first view of the Nossa Senhora Mãe Dos Homens Church, which was constructed between 1876 and 1883. This remarkable structure is noted as the first neo-Gothic church in Brazil, distinguished by its striking 48-meter (157-foot) tower set against the lush backdrop of the Serra de Caraça.

Next, we will embark on a 2-kilometer walk to reach Cascatinha, where a stunning 40-meter (131-foot) waterfall cascades over four waterfalls, creating four natural pools. The unique yellow hue of the water fluctuates with rainfall due to organic material flowing down from the mountains. Truly remarkable!

You will be granted leisure time at the waterfall to unwind and possibly take a refreshing dip. Once recharged, we will reconvene and head back to the Caraça Sanctuary complex, where you have the option to enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.

After our meal, we will enter the sanctuary for a closer look at the church's interior, featuring a painting of the Last Supper alongside a striking baroque representation of Nossa Senhora Dos Homens, crafted from wood and adorned with gilded clothing.

Subsequently, we’ll tour the remaining structures within the religious complex, including the calvary, cloister, catacombs, and museum. You are sure to find it utterly captivating!

At the conclusion of our journey, we will return you to your hotel in Ouro Preto, marking the end of our 11-hour expedition.