Blog

While cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador dominate international carnival conversations, carnaval Belo Horizonte has quietly emerged as one of Brazil’s most exciting and fastest-growing street party destinations. This capital of Minas Gerais in Southeast Brazil offers a unique carnival experience that combines massive street blocos with the warm hospitality Mineiros (people from Minas Gerais) are famous for.

Unlike the commercialized spectacle of Rio’s sambadrome or the intense heat and crowds of Salvador’s trio elétricos, Belo Horizonte carnival embraces a more democratic, accessible street party culture. With over 400 blocos (street parties) taking over the city during carnival week and pre-carnival festivities, Belo Horizonte delivers authentic Brazilian carnival energy without the overwhelming logistics challenges of larger destinations.

The city’s tree-lined avenues, relatively flat terrain, pleasant mountain climate, excellent infrastructure, and genuine local atmosphere create ideal conditions for carnival celebrations. Whether you’re a first-time carnival visitor seeking a manageable introduction or a veteran looking for fresh experiences beyond the traditional circuit, carnaval em Belo Horizonte offers an unforgettable blend of massive parties, cultural authenticity, and Mineiro charm.

When is Belo Horizonte Carnival 2026?

Belo Horizonte Carnival 2026 will take place during the official Brazilian carnival dates: February 13-18, 2026. However, the city’s carnival culture extends well beyond these official days, with pre-carnival festivities beginning in mid-January and continuing through the weeks leading to carnival.

The official carnival dates include:

• Friday, February 13: Official carnival opening with major blocos beginning
• Saturday, February 14: Peak day with the largest blocos and highest attendance
• Sunday, February 15: Continuation of major celebrations across neighborhoods
• Monday, February 16: Carnival Monday with neighborhood-specific parties
• Tuesday, February 17: Shrove Tuesday – the traditional carnival finale
• Wednesday, February 18: Ash Wednesday marking the end of festivities (some blocos continue)

Pre-Carnival in Belo Horizonte

One of Belo Horizonte’s unique characteristics is its extensive pre-carnival season. Starting in mid-January, blocos begin organizing “ensaios” (rehearsals) and warm-up parties that are essentially full carnival celebrations themselves. Many locals argue that pre-carnival blocos offer better experiences than carnival week itself—less crowded, more intimate, and equally festive.

Popular pre-carnival events typically occur on weekends throughout January and early February, allowing visitors to experience carnival atmosphere even if they can’t attend during the official dates. This extended carnival season makes Belo Horizonte particularly flexible for travelers with scheduling constraints.

What makes Carnaval Belo Horizonte special?

Belo Horizonte’s carnival stands out among Brazil’s best carnival destinations for several distinctive reasons that create a uniquely enjoyable experience.

Street Carnival democracy

Belo Horizonte carnival is fundamentally democratic and accessible. Unlike Rio’s ticketed sambadrome parades or Salvador’s expensive abadás (tickets to follow trio elétricos), virtually all of BH’s 400+ blocos are completely free and open to everyone. This creates an authentic street party atmosphere where locals and tourists mix naturally, dancing together in genuine celebration.

The blocos range from massive parties attracting 100,000+ people to intimate neighborhood gatherings of a few hundred. This diversity means you can choose your carnival intensity level day by day, even hour by hour—starting with a small, chill bloco in the morning and joining a massive street party in the afternoon.

Pleasant climate and geography

While Salvador’s carnival takes place in sweltering heat and humidity, and Florianópolis combines beach and party, Belo Horizonte offers something different: comfortable mountain city climate. Located at 850 meters (2,800 feet) elevation, BH enjoys milder February temperatures than coastal cities.

The city’s relatively flat terrain (despite being a mountain city) and wide avenues make navigating between blocos easy and accessible. You won’t face the steep hills ofOlinda or the spread-out challenges o fSão Paulo. Most major blocos occur in walkable neighborhoods, and the city’s good public transportation connects different carnival zones efficiently.

Mineiro hospitality

Minas Gerais is famous throughout Brazil for its warm hospitality and friendly culture. During carnival, this translates to a welcoming atmosphere where international visitors feel embraced rather than like outsiders. Locals happily explain bloco traditions, share caipirinhas, teach dance moves, and ensure everyone participates fully in the celebrations.

This genuine warmth contrasts with more tourist-heavy carnivals where locals sometimes view visitors as commercial opportunities rather than celebration companions. In Belo Horizonte, you’re joining a community party, not purchasing a tourist experience.

Musical diversity

While respecting traditional carnival music (marchinhas and sambas), BH’s blocos embrace incredible musical diversity. You’ll find blocos dedicated to:

• Traditional marchinhas and classic carnival music
• Brazilian rock (blocos paying tribute to famous Brazilian rock bands)
• Samba and pagode
• Axé and Northeastern Brazilian music
• MPB (Brazilian Popular Music)
• International rock and pop adapted to carnival rhythms
• Alternative and indie music
• LGBTQ+ focused parties with diverse soundtracks

This musical variety means Belo Horizonte carnival appeals to broader tastes than single-genre celebrations, and you can create a personalized carnival experience matching your musical preferences.

Safety and infrastructure

Compared to larger Brazilian cities, Belo Horizonte maintains better safety conditions and infrastructure. The city government invests significantly in carnival safety measures, including extensive police presence, medical stations, public bathrooms, and organized bloco routes. While basic safety precautions remain necessary (as anywhere during large celebrations), BH carnival generally presents fewer security concerns than Rio or Salvador.

Major Blocos and Carnival events

With over 400 blocos operating during carnival season, choosing which to attend can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to BH’s most significant and popular blocos.

Mega Blocos (100,000+ People)

Então, Brilha!: One of BH’s largest and most traditional blocos, attracting massive crowds to downtown streets. Known for classic carnival marchinhas and infectious energy. Typically parades on carnival Saturday.

Bloco Filhos de Tchá Tchá: A legendary bloco that helped establish BH’s modern street carnival culture. Massive attendance, diverse music, and incredible atmosphere.

Pena de Pavão de Krishna: One of Brazil’s most famous blocos, originally from Rio but now with a significant BH chapter. Combines spiritual themes with carnival celebration, attracting enormous crowds.

Tico Tico Serra Copo: A massive, traditional bloco known for its festive atmosphere and classic carnival music.

Alternative and themed blocos

Então, Brilha! (Alternative Edition): A different iteration of the traditional bloco, focusing on Brazilian rock and alternative music.

Bloco Chama o Síndico: Themed around apartment building/condominium culture, with costumes representing various building worker roles. Attracts younger, alternative crowds.

Bloco das Primas: A “cousins” themed bloco that’s become hugely popular, combining traditional carnival with contemporary Brazilian music.

LGBTQ+ Blocos

Belo Horizonte has a vibrant LGBTQ+ carnival scene with several inclusive, welcoming blocos:

Bloco Coisa de Viado: One of Brazil’s most important LGBTQ+ blocos, creating safe, celebratory spaces for the community.

Bloco da Pimenta: Lesbian-focused carnival celebrations promoting visibility and inclusion.

Vem Ni Mim que Sou Facinha: Playful, inclusive bloco welcoming all identities.

These blocos represent carnival’s democratizing spirit while creating specifically safe spaces for LGBTQ+ celebration.

Neighborhood Blocos

Beyond mega blocos, BH’s neighborhoods host smaller, more intimate celebrations:

Savassi neighborhood: Upscale area with several sophisticated blocos and extensive bar scene

Santa Tereza: Bohemian neighborhood with alternative, artistic blocos

Prado/Cidade Jardim: Family-friendly blocos in residential neighborhoods

Funcionários: Mix of traditional and modern blocos in a central neighborhood

Lourdes: Upscale neighborhood blocos with diverse musical offerings

Finding Bloco schedules

Bloco schedules are typically published in late January/early February. The best resources include:

• BeloHorizonte.mg.gov.br: Official city government carnival website with complete schedules
• Local carnival apps: Download BH-specific carnival apps listing all blocos with times and routes
• Social media: Follow major blocos on Instagram for schedule updates and location information
• Local news websites: Estado de Minas and O Tempo newspapers publish comprehensive carnival coverage

Where to stay during Belo Horizonte Carnival 2026

Choosing the right neighborhood significantly impacts your carnival experience and daily logistics in BH.

Savassi (Most Popular)

This upscale neighborhood in south-central Belo Horizonte offers the best combination of carnival access, safety, restaurants, nightlife, and infrastructure.

Advantages:

• Walking distance to numerous major blocos
• Excellent restaurant and bar scene
• Generally safe with good street lighting
• Wide range of accommodations
• Good public transportation connections
• Lively atmosphere even outside carnival hours

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than other neighborhoods
• Can be noisy throughout carnival week
• Heavy crowds during major bloco events

Best for: First-time visitors, those prioritizing convenience and safety, travelers wanting upscale amenities

Funcionários

Located near Savassi, this residential neighborhood offers slightly quieter accommodations while maintaining excellent carnival access.

Advantages:

• Close to major carnival routes
• More residential and peaceful than Savassi
• Good restaurants and services
• Excellent safety profile
• Walking distance to multiple blocos

Disadvantages:

• Fewer nightlife options than Savassi
• Limited accommodation choices

Best for: Travelers seeking quieter lodging near carnival action, families

Lourdes

This upscale neighborhood near Savassi provides luxury accommodation options with easy carnival access.

Advantages:

• Very safe and well-maintained
• High-end hotels and restaurants
• Close to major carnival routes
• Beautiful tree-lined streets
• Quiet residential atmosphere

Disadvantages:

• More expensive
• Less nightlife compared to Savassi
• Can feel isolated from authentic local atmosphere

Best for: Luxury travelers, those prioritizing peace and safety

Santa Tereza

BH’s bohemian neighborhood attracts artists, students, and alternative crowds.

Advantages:

• Authentic, artistic atmosphere
• Alternative blocos and cultural events
• Good restaurants and bars with local character
• More affordable than Savassi
• Unique cultural experience

Disadvantages:

• Some safety concerns at night
• Farther from main carnival action
• Steeper streets and hills
• Limited accommodation options

Best for: Alternative travelers, culture seekers, budget-conscious visitors

Pampulha

This lakeside neighborhood far from downtown hosts Mineirão stadium and modernist architecture.

Advantages:

• Peaceful, beautiful lakeside setting
• Away from carnival chaos
• Good for families
• Lower prices

Disadvantages:

• Far from main carnival activities (30-40 minutes)
• Requires transportation to reach blocos
• Limited walkability
• Fewer restaurants and services

Best for: Travelers wanting quiet escape from carnival intensity, families with children

Booking considerations

Timing: Book 2-4 months in advance for best selection and rates. BH carnival is less internationally known than Rio, so accommodation pressure is lower, but popular neighborhoods still fill quickly.

Prices: Expect 150-300% increases compared to regular season, though still significantly cheaper than Rio or Salvador carnival accommodation.

Minimum stays: Many hotels and Airbnbs require 3-5 night minimums during carnival.

Location priority: Choose accommodations within walking distance of multiple bloco routes to maximize flexibility and minimize transportation needs.

Getting around Belo Horizonte during Carnival

BH’s relatively organized urban planning and infrastructure make carnival navigation easier than in many Brazilian cities.

Public Transportation

Belo Horizonte has an extensive bus system (BHBUS) and a metro line connecting some neighborhoods.

Buses: Regular buses run throughout carnival with extended hours. However, major bloco routes cause significant diversions and delays. Single fares cost around R$4.50.

Metro: The single metro line has limited usefulness for carnival but efficiently connects some neighborhoods. Stations near carnival zones become extremely crowded.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Extensive coverage
• Generally reliable outside peak carnival hours

Cons:

• Extremely crowded during carnival
• Route diversions complicate navigation
• Limited late-night service
• Pickpocketing risks increase in crowds

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and 99 operate throughout Belo Horizonte, though carnival presents challenges:

• Surge pricing during peak hours (2-4x normal rates)
• Long wait times when leaving major blocos
• Drivers may refuse destinations near active blocos
• Street closures complicate pickup locations

Despite challenges, ride-sharing remains useful for longer distances or late-night transportation when you’re tired from hours of dancing.

Rental Cars

Having a car provides flexibility for exploring attractions beyond carnival, though driving during bloco events is impractical.

RentCars.com offers excellent options for Belo Horizonte car rentals, comparing prices across agencies to find the best deals. A rental car is particularly valuable if you plan to visit stunning destinations like Ouro Preto, Inhotim, or Lake Furnas during your trip.

Important considerations:

• Book well in advance for better rates and availability
• Park in secure, paid garages (never street parking during carnival)
• Avoid driving near active blocos (streets close completely)
• Drinking and driving carries severe legal penalties
• Having a car enables incredible day trips beyond the city

Cycling

Belo Horizonte has been expanding its cycling infrastructure, though carnival isn’t ideal for bike transportation due to crowds and closed streets. The city’s bike-sharing system (BikeBH) operates but becomes impractical during major events.

Walking

Walking is the primary transportation method during carnival. Most major blocos occur in walkable central neighborhoods. BH’s relatively flat terrain and wide sidewalks make walking pleasant compared to hillier Brazilian cities.

Tips for walking during carnival:

• Wear extremely comfortable shoes (you’ll walk/dance for hours)
• Stay aware of your surroundings despite festive distractions
• Keep valuables secured and minimal
• Stay hydrated during long walks in warm weather
• Plan bloco routes in advance to minimize walking distances

Safety tips for Belo Horizonte Carnival

While Belo Horizonte is generally safer than Rio or Salvador, large carnival celebrations require basic safety precautions.

Essential safety practices

Minimize valuables: Bring only essentials to blocos. Leave expensive jewelry, watches, and unnecessary electronics at your accommodation. Carry minimal cash and use money belts or secure hidden pockets.

Phone security: Phone theft is the most common carnival crime. Keep phones secured when not in use. Consider phone lanyards attached to your body or keep devices in front pockets with your hand covering them in crowds. Avoid using phones while walking on empty streets.

Stay aware: Maintain constant awareness of surroundings, especially in crowds where pickpockets operate. Keep bags in front of your body and avoid back pockets for wallets.

Travel in groups: Attend blocos with friends or fellow travelers when possible. Solo travelers should join organized groups or stay in well-populated, well-lit areas. Establish meeting points with companions in case you get separated.

Avoid empty areas: After blocos end, stick to main streets with other people rather than shortcuts through empty areas. Use ride-sharing apps or taxis rather than walking long distances late at night.

Watch your drinks: Never leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers. While drink spiking isn’t extremely common, it does occur during large celebrations.

Know Emergency Numbers: Save these in your phone:

• Emergency Services: 190 (Police), 192 (Ambulance), 193 (Fire)
• Tourist Police: Belo Horizonte has tourist police stations
• Your Embassy or Consulate contact information

Neighborhood-specific safety

Savassi/Funcionários/Lourdes: Generally very safe with heavy police presence during carnival. These upscale neighborhoods maintain good security even late at night.

Centro (Downtown): Safe during blocos with extensive police presence, but exercise caution on empty streets outside carnival hours. Avoid downtown late at night after blocos end.

Santa Tereza: Beautiful bohemian neighborhood but some safety concerns at night. Stay on main streets and avoid isolated areas after dark.

Pampulha: Safe lakeside neighborhood but isolated from carnival action, requiring transportation.

Travel insurance for Carnival

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for any carnival trip to Brazil. SafetyWing offers excellent coverage specifically suited for international travelers.

Why travel insurance matters for carnival:

Carnival’s combination of massive crowds, late-night celebrations, alcohol consumption, and general festive chaos creates unique travel risks. Having proper insurance coverage provides invaluable peace of mind and financial protection for unexpected situations.

SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance covers exactly what carnival travelers need: medical emergencies (dehydration, injuries, those caipirinha moments), theft and lost belongings (common in crowded festivals), trip interruptions, and 24/7 multilingual support. Plans start at just $45.08/month and cover you in 185+ countries—you can even purchase coverage after you’ve already left home, which is incredibly valuable for spontaneous travelers or those who forgot to arrange insurance beforehand.

Full transparency: This is an affiliate link, which means if you purchase insurance through my link, I earn a small commission at absolutely no extra cost to you. You pay the exact same price—there’s zero markup. This commission helps support the time and effort I invest in creating comprehensive, free Brazil travel guides like this one. If you find this guide helpful and were planning to get insurance anyway (which you definitely should for carnival!), using this link is a simple, free way to support Do in Brazil and help me continue creating quality travel content. Thank you! 💚

Get Travel Insurance for BH Carnival →

What to wear and pack for Belo Horizonte Carnival

Packing appropriately ensures comfort throughout carnival’s intense but enjoyable celebrations.

Carnival costumes and attire

Belo Horizonte carnival leans slightly more casual than Rio’s elaborate costumes, though creative outfits are always welcome and appreciated.

Costume ideas:

• Colorful, lightweight outfits reflecting Brazilian carnival aesthetics
• Theme-based costumes (many blocos have specific themes)
• Tropical elements: bright colors, florals, playful patterns
• Glitter, sequins, and festive accessories
• Comfortable clothing allowing free movement for hours of dancing
• Brazilian cultural references (football jerseys, regional costumes)

Many BH locals wear simple festive clothing rather than full costumes—colorful shorts/skirts, graphic t-shirts, and carnival accessories work perfectly. Don’t feel pressured for elaborate outfits unless you want to!

Practical clothing

Daytime: Light, breathable fabrics essential for warm February weather. Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking athletic fabrics work best.

Essentials:

• Lightweight shorts and comfortable pants
• Breathable tank tops and t-shirts
• Light sundress or casual outfits
• Flip-flops for accommodation and casual wear

Evening: While nights are generally warm, BH’s higher elevation means slightly cooler evenings than coastal cities. A light jacket or wrap helps for air-conditioned restaurants or cooler late nights.

Footwear (CRITICAL): You’ll walk and dance for hours. Bring:

• Comfortable sneakers or athletic shoes with excellent support (primary carnival footwear)
• Supportive sandals with straps (backup option)
• Avoid: heels, new shoes that cause blisters, shoes you care about getting dirty

Sun protection:

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50+ (Brazilian sun is intense even in BH’s climate)
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Hat or cap for daytime blocos
• After-sun lotion for evening care

Essential Carnival pack list

Must-bring items:

• Reusable water bottle (staying hydrated is critical)
• Portable phone charger/power bank
• Small, secure crossbody bag or fanny pack worn in front
• Waterproof phone case or pouch
• Basic first aid supplies (bandages, pain relievers, antacids, anti-nausea medication)
• Copies of passport and important documents (keep originals locked at accommodation)
• Cash in small bills (many vendors don’t accept cards)
• Earplugs (for sleeping despite street noise)
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
• Light rain jacket (February can bring occasional showers)

Nice-to-have:

• Action camera for hands-free photos/videos
• Backup phone charger
• Portable fan or cooling towel
• Extra charging cables
• Small Brazilian flag or carnival accessories

Beyond Carnival: Exploring Belo Horizonte and Minas Gerais

While carnival is spectacular, Belo Horizonte and Minas Gerais offer incredible experiences worth exploring before or after the festivities.

Belo Horizonte City Attractions

The city itself deserves exploration at a calmer pace outside carnival intensity:

Pampulha Modern Ensemble: UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Oscar Niemeyer’s modernist architecture around a beautiful lake. The São Francisco de Assis Church, with its Cândido Portinari paintings, is particularly stunning.

Mercado Central: One of Brazil’s best municipal markets, offering incredible Mineiro food, artisan cachaça, cheeses, and regional products. Book a markets tour to understand the cultural significance and discover hidden culinary gems.

Praça da Liberdade: Beautiful square surrounded by museums, cultural centers, and impressive architecture, perfect for afternoon strolls.

Mangabeiras Park: Massive park on the mountainside offering hiking trails, barbecue areas, and spectacular city views.

For comprehensive city exploration with local insights, consider a Belo Horizonte city tour covering major attractions and hidden gems you might otherwise miss.

Coffee Culture

Minas Gerais produces some of Brazil’s finest coffee, and BH has a thriving coffee culture. Join a coffee tour to understand Mineiro coffee traditions, visit local roasters, and taste exceptional brews while learning about the region’s coffee history.

Day trips from Belo Horizonte

The region surrounding BH offers some of Brazil’s most remarkable destinations, easily accessible as day trips:

Ouro Preto and Mariana: These colonial UNESCO World Heritage cities showcase Brazil’s gold rush history with baroque architecture, churches filled with gold leaf, and cobblestoned streets. A guided tour to Ouro Preto and Mariana provides historical context that brings these stunning cities to life.

Inhotim: One of the world’s largest outdoor contemporary art museums, set in a massive botanical garden. The combination of world-class art installations and stunning tropical gardens creates an unforgettable experience. Book an Inhotim Institute tour to ensure you see the highlights in this enormous complex.

Capitólio and Lake Furnas: Often called “Brazilian Caribbean” for its turquoise waters and dramatic canyon landscapes, this stunning destination offers boat tours through canyons and waterfalls. A Capitólio and Lake Furnas tour takes you to one of Brazil’s most photogenic hidden gems.

These day trips provide excellent recovery activities after intense carnival celebrations, allowing you to experience Minas Gerais’ incredible diversity beyond just Belo Horizonte carnival.

Mineiro Cuisine

Minas Gerais is famous throughout Brazil for its exceptional cuisine. Traditional Mineiro food emphasizes comfort, generosity, and rich flavors:

Pão de Queijo: Cheese bread made with cassava flour—Brazil’s most beloved snack, perfected in Minas Gerais.

Feijão Tropeiro: Beans with cassava flour, eggs, bacon, and sausage—hearty and delicious.

Frango com Quiabo: Chicken with okra, a traditional Mineiro combination.

Tutu de Feijão: Creamy bean purée seasoned with bacon and cassava flour.

Mineiro Cheese: The region produces exceptional artisanal cheeses, particularly from the Serra da Canastra region.

Cachaça: Minas Gerais produces some of Brazil’s finest artisanal cachaça (sugarcane spirit used in caipirinhas).

Doce de Leite: Caramelized milk dessert—simple but addictive.

Many restaurants offer “comida mineira” (Mineiro food) tasting menus allowing you to sample multiple traditional dishes in one sitting. Don’t leave BH without experiencing authentic Mineiro hospitality through its cuisine!

Food and drink during Carnival

Carnival celebrations include distinctive foods and drinks that fuel the festivities.

Carnival street food

Espetinho: Grilled meat skewers sold by vendors throughout blocos—quick protein for energy.

Pastel: Fried pastries with various fillings (cheese, meat, shrimp, heart of palm)—carnival staple food.

Churros: Sweet fried dough sticks, popular carnival dessert.

Milho Cozido: Boiled corn on the cob, healthy carnival snack option.

Caldo: Various broths (chicken, bean, shrimp) served in cups for quick nutrition and warmth.

Carnival Drinks

Caipirinha: Brazil’s national cocktail (cachaça, lime, sugar, ice) is carnival’s signature drink. Vendors create variations with different fruits.

Beer: Ice-cold beer is carnival’s most popular alcoholic beverage. Brazilian brands like Skol, Brahma, and Antarctica are everywhere.

Água de Coco (Coconut Water): Essential for staying hydrated between alcoholic drinks.

Batida: Fruit juice mixed with cachaça creates refreshing carnival cocktails.

Soft Drinks and Water: Critical for hydration—drink water regularly despite the festive atmosphere.

Eating strategy for Carnival

• Start with hearty breakfast: Fuel up before hours of dancing
• Snack regularly: Keep energy levels up with street food
• Hydrate constantly: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or coconut water
• Evening meals: Enjoy proper Mineiro dinners to recover from day’s activities
• Budget consideration: Street food is very affordable; save money by eating like locals

Budget planning for Belo Horizonte Carnival 2026

Understanding costs helps you plan a carnival trip matching your budget.

Accommodation costs

Carnival prices increase significantly but remain more affordable than Rio or Salvador:

• Budget hostels: R$100-250 ($20-50 USD) per night in dorms
• Mid-range hotels/pousadas: R$400-800 ($80-160 USD) per night
• Upscale hotels: R$800-1,500 ($160-300 USD) per night
• Luxury hotels: R$1,500-2,500+ ($300-500+ USD) per night

Daily expenses

• Food: R$50-150 ($10-30 USD) per day depending on restaurant choices
• Transportation: R$15-50 ($3-10 USD) per day
• Carnival entry: Virtually all blocos are FREE
• Drinks: R$8-15 ($1.60-3 USD) for beers, R$15-30 ($3-6 USD) for caipirinhas
• Activities/tours: R$150-400 ($30-80 USD) per organized tour

Money-saving tips

• Attend free blocos (which is essentially all of them!)
• Eat at “por kilo” restaurants for affordable quality meals
• Buy drinks from supermarkets before blocos when possible
• Use public transportation during off-peak hours
• Book accommodation and tours well in advance
• Share lodging costs with travel companions
• Take advantage of free city attractions outside carnival

Sample budget (5 nights/6 days)

Budget Traveler:

• Accommodation: R$750 ($150)
• Food: R$350 ($70)
• Transportation: R$150 ($30)
• Activities: R$200 ($40)
• Drinks: R$250 ($50)
• Total: approximately R$1,700 ($340)

Mid-Range Traveler:

• Accommodation: R$3,000 ($600)
• Food: R$700 ($140)
• Transportation: R$300 ($60)
• Activities: R$600 ($120)
• Drinks: R$500 ($100)
• Total: approximately R$5,100 ($1,020)

Comparing Belo Horizonte to other Brazilian Carnivals

Understanding how carnaval Belo Horizonte differs from other celebrations helps set expectations.

BH vs. Rio Carnival

Rio offers the world’s most famous carnival with spectacular sambadrome parades and international recognition. BH provides more accessible, democratic street carnival with better infrastructure and safety.

Choose Rio for: Sambadrome spectacle, iconic status, international atmosphere

Choose BH for: Accessible street parties, better safety, Mineiro hospitality, more affordable prices, easier logistics

BH vs. Salvador Carnival

Salvador features massive trio elétricos and intense Afro-Brazilian energy. Both offer street carnival but with different character.

Choose Salvador for: Trio elétricos experience, axé music, Afro-Brazilian culture, coastal setting

Choose BH for: More comfortable climate, better infrastructure, free blocos (vs. expensive abadás), easier navigation, safer environment

BH vs. Recife/Olinda

Recife and Olinda offer unique Northeastern carnival with frevo and colonial charm.

Choose Recife/Olinda for: Unique frevo culture, colonial architecture, Galo da Madrugada, beach access

Choose BH for: More organized infrastructure, comfortable climate, diverse musical styles, easier for first-timers

BH vs. São Paulo Carnival

São Paulo features world-class sambadrome parades and massive blocos in a giant urban setting.

Choose São Paulo for: Sambadrome competition, urban energy, extensive bloco options

Choose BH for: More manageable size, better climate, stronger community feeling, easier navigation

BH vs. Florianópolis

Florianópolis combines carnival with island beaches.

Choose Florianópolis for: Beach carnival combination, island setting, surf culture

Choose BH for: More organized street carnival, better bloco

Carnival etiquette and cultural tips

Understanding local customs enhances your carnival experience and shows respect for Brazilian culture.

Participation and respect

Mineiros warmly welcome international visitors joining carnival celebrations. Don’t hesitate to dance, sing along, and participate enthusiastically—Brazilians appreciate when foreigners embrace their culture.

However, respectful participation is essential:

• Always ask permission before photographing people
• Respect personal space despite crowded conditions
• Never touch others without consent
• Be respectful of all carnival participants regardless of costume, identity, or expression
• Don’t mock or make fun of traditions you don’t understand

Portuguese basics

Learning basic Portuguese significantly enhances your experience:

• “Olá” (oh-LAH) = Hello
• “Obrigado/Obrigada” (oh-bree-GAH-doo/dah) = Thank you (male/female speaker)
• “Por favor” (pohr fah-VOHR) = Please
• “Quanto custa?” (KWAN-too KOOS-tah) = How much?
• “Onde fica…?” (OHN-jee FEE-kah) = Where is…?
• “Você fala inglês?” (voh-SEH FAH-lah een-GLAYSH) = Do you speak English?
• “Posso tirar uma foto?” = Can I take a photo?
• “Tudo bem?” (TOO-doo bayn) = How are you?/Everything good?

Environmental consciousness

Carnival generates significant waste. Help minimize environmental impact:

• Use reusable water bottles
• Dispose of trash properly in designated bins
• Avoid excessive single-use plastics
• Participate in any cleanup initiatives

Tipping culture

Brazil has modest tipping expectations. Restaurants often include 10% service charges (look for “serviço”). For exceptional service, add 5-10%. Tip street performers you enjoy (R$2-10 is appropriate).

Drinking responsibly

Carnival involves significant alcohol consumption, but maintaining control is essential:

• Pace yourself over multiple days
• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
• Eat regularly to maintain energy
• Never leave drinks unattended
• Know your accommodation address and emergency contacts
• Use ride-sharing for transportation when drinking

Weather and climate in february

Understanding Belo Horizonte’s February weather helps you pack appropriately.

Climate conditions

BH in February experiences pleasant summer weather:

• Temperature: 20-29°C (68-84°F)
• Elevation advantage: Cooler than coastal cities due to 850m altitude
• Humidity: Moderate (60-75%)
• Rainfall: February is rainy season, typically brief afternoon showers
• Sun exposure: Strong Brazilian sun requires protection

Rain considerations

February brings occasional rain, but it shouldn’t deter carnival plans. Rain typically comes as:

• Brief afternoon or evening showers
• Quick storms passing within 30-60 minutes
• Occasional overcast days

Carnival continues regardless of rain—bring a light rain jacket but don’t let rain fears prevent attending blocos.

Comfort advantages

BH’s elevation provides significant comfort advantages over coastal carnivals:

• Cooler nights for better sleep
• Less oppressive humidity
• More comfortable dancing conditions
• Pleasant evening temperatures

Carnaval Belo Horizonte represents one of Brazil’s best-kept carnival secrets—a celebration that delivers authentic street party energy, incredible musical diversity, warm Mineiro hospitality, and excellent infrastructure without the overwhelming logistics challenges of larger destinations.

The city’s 400+ free blocos ensure you’ll find celebrations matching your preferences, whether you seek massive parties with 100,000 people or intimate neighborhood gatherings. The democratic nature of BH carnival—where locals and tourists dance together as equals—creates genuine connections and memories that ticketed events simply cannot replicate.

Beyond carnival itself, Belo Horizonte serves as a perfect base for exploring Minas Gerais’ incredible cultural and natural attractions. The combination of intense carnival celebrations with recovery day trips to UNESCO World Heritage colonial cities, world-class art museums, and stunning natural landscapes creates a well-rounded Brazilian experience.

Whether you’re a first-time carnival visitor seeking a manageable introduction to Brazil’s greatest celebration, or a veteran carnival-goer looking for fresh experiences beyond the traditional circuit, Belo Horizonte delivers. The city’s comfortable climate, excellent safety profile, diverse musical offerings, and genuine local atmosphere make it an ideal carnival destination for international travelers.

Start planning now—research which blocos match your interests, book accommodation in strategic neighborhoods, learn basic Portuguese phrases, and prepare for an unforgettable carnival adventure. The streets of Belo Horizonte await, ready to welcome you to one of Brazil’s most exciting carnival celebrations.

For more information about traveling to Brazil during carnival season, explore our guides to Brazil in February and other amazing carnival destinations throughout the country.

Bom carnaval, and see you in the streets of BH! 🎭🇧🇷