Minas Gerais launches new tourist routes at Travel Next 2025 and reaffirms its leading role in national tourism

Minas Gerais arrived at Travel Next 2025, the largest B2B tourism event in the state and one of the most important in Brazil, with a strategic participation, marked by the launch of two new tourist routes that promise to transform the visitor experience: the Caminho da Agonia Route, which runs through municipalities in the Mantiqueira region, and the Franciscan Paths Route, in the Mucuri Valley. The initiative is from the Minas Gerais State Government, through the Minas Gerais State Secretariat of Culture and Tourism, and Sebrae Minas.

The Caminhão da Agonia (Agony Truck) is a 60-kilometer route through the Mantiqueira Mountains, offering pilgrims, from the very beginning, a moment of faith, reflection, and direct contact with nature. The route connects four towns in the region: Cristina, Maria da Fé, Pedralva, and Itajubá, ideal for hiking, cycling, and admiring the landscape.

The Franciscan Paths, located in the Mucuri Valley, were created in 2019. The project was consolidated after technical mapping that highlights the region's religious potential, natural, cultural, and gastronomic attractions, as well as artisanal production and community-based tourism. The route passes through the cities of Teófilo Otoni, Itambacuri, Lajinha, and Frei Gaspar, covering a 42-kilometer route. 

"The launch of these two routes is a milestone in the consolidation of Minas Gerais as a diverse and competitive destination. They reflect the essence of our Minas Gerais identity, while offering unique experiences that connect spirituality, nature, culture, and history. Travel Next is the showcase where Minas Gerais presents itself to Brazil and the world, demonstrating that tourism is one of the state's greatest drivers of economic and social development," states Leônidas de Oliveira, Secretary of Culture and Tourism.

The two religious routes were structured through Sebrae Minas' Check-In Turismo program, launched in 2021. The initiative focuses on improving the competitiveness of small local businesses, structuring tourism products and destinations, training entrepreneurs, and strengthening tourism-related chains. 

During Travel Next Minas, businesses that are part of the religious routes will have opportunities to connect with travel agencies and tour operators, offering opportunities to showcase their experiences and foster business opportunities to boost tourism. "Sebrae Minas plays a strategic role in structuring religious tourism destinations throughout the state. In partnership with the State Government, we work from the planning and qualification of local businesses to the promotion and marketing of the destinations, ensuring authentic and well-structured experiences for visitors. This initiative helps to value traditions, increase the flow of tourists, and promote the sustainable development of the communities involved," emphasizes Marcelo de Souza e Silva, president of the Sebrae Minas Deliberative Council.

Travel Next Minas will continue with programming until this Wednesday (20/08), at Expominas, in Belo Horizonte, bringing together more than 6 thousand professionals from the sector and 800 exhibiting brands.

Source: Secult.