Getting There and Away

A breathtaking sunset view of Ouro Preto, Brazil showcasing historic colonial architecture.
Bruno Cardoso, Pexels

Ouro Preto's primary transportation hub is the Terminal Rodoviário de Ouro Preto, serving as the central point for bus arrivals and departures. The closest major airport is Tancredo Neves International Airport (CNF) in Belo Horizonte, which facilitates connections to Ouro Preto via ground transportation.

From Belo Horizonte:

  • Buses provide frequent service from Belo Horizonte's main bus terminal, with journeys typically lasting approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. Ticket prices generally range from R$40 to R$110.
  • For those preferring a direct transfer, an Uber ride takes about 1 hour 50 minutes, with an estimated cost of R$169. Driving time is roughly 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

From Belo Horizonte Confins Airport (CNF):

  • A common route involves taking a shuttle from the airport to Belo Horizonte's main bus station, followed by a bus to Ouro Preto. This combined journey can take around 3 hours 16 minutes to 4-5 hours, with costs estimated between R$280 and R$320.
  • Direct Uber services are available from the airport, with an average travel time of about 2 hours 32 minutes and an estimated cost of R$270.

From Rio de Janeiro:

  • Overnight buses depart from Rio's Novo Rio bus terminal, with travel durations ranging from approximately 7 to 11.5 hours. Standard tickets typically cost around R$55 to R$71, with more comfortable 'leito' (bed-like) seats priced higher, up to R$115.
  • The quickest option is to fly to Belo Horizonte (CNF) and then continue by bus to Ouro Preto.

From São Paulo:

  • Buses operate from São Paulo, with the journey typically taking around 11 to 11 hours 45 minutes. An indicative cost for this route is approximately $69.