Tourism in Minas Gerais gains momentum in Gramado with new routes in the north of the state

The participation of Minas Gerais in Festuris 2025, in Gramado, marks a new chapter for experiential and business tourism in the state. At one of the leading events in the sector in the Americas, the Government of Minas Gerais, through the State Secretariat of Culture and Tourism (Secult), and Sebrae Minas launched the Espinhaço Mountain Range Route - from Jequi to the North and the Peruaçu Destinations Route, consolidating northern Minas Gerais as a strategic hub for attracting events and regional economic development.

“Northern Minas Gerais has shown enormous potential for nature, cultural, and business tourism. The new routes launched at Festuris expand the state's tourism map and consolidate the region as a hub of opportunities, capable of attracting investment, generating employment, and enhancing Minas Gerais' natural and cultural heritage,” says Bárbara Botega, Secretary of State for Culture and Tourism of Minas Gerais.

She adds that the integrated work between the Government of Minas Gerais, Sebrae (Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service), and local governments reinforces the vision of sustainable and inclusive tourism. "These routes demonstrate that tourism is a powerful driver of development, connecting communities, preserving identity, and boosting the economy in a balanced and innovative way," she concludes.

Espinhaço Mountain Range Route - From Jequi to the North

It encompasses municipalities such as Botumirim, Grão Mogol, Bocaiúva, Turmalina, Olhos d'Água, Cristália, Itacambira, and Montes Claros. The route proposes an immersion in the mountain range, unique in Brazil and recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, with one of the greatest biological diversities in the country. Focusing on trekking, ecotourism, and cycling tourism, the route combines exuberant nature, waterfalls, wineries, and cultural experiences that highlight the strength of the region.

Peruaçu Destinations Route

It connects Januária, Itacarambi, and São João das Missões, surrounding the Peruaçu Caves National Park, also recognized as a Natural World Heritage Site. The route emphasizes community-based tourism and gastronomic experiences with a rural identity, from flour mills to the beaches of the São Francisco River.

According to Jadilson Ferreira Borges, regional manager for Northern Minas Gerais at Sebrae Minas, collaborative work has transformed tourism potential into a real market opportunity. “Each route represents a network of small businesses that are structuring themselves, improving their skills, and connecting with the world. The presence of local governance bodies at Festuris is a fundamental step in placing Northern Minas Gerais on the international tourism map,” he emphasizes.

In addition to the launches, the program for this Friday (7) included gastronomic presentations led by chefs from Minas Gerais, tastings and the announcement of the new MICE area of ​​the Visite Minas Gerais portal, focused on event and convention tourism. The initiative reinforces Minas Gerais' strategy of attracting fairs, congresses and corporate meetings, diversifying the audience and expanding business generation.

Source: Government of Minas Gerais.