Sete Lagoas (“City of the Seven Enchanted Lakes”) lies about 70 km from Belo Horizonte in the Brazilian highlands. As of 2020, it housed roughly 242,000 residents and covers 537 km². The economy blends services, industry, agriculture, and food processing. Notable factories include a Fiat–Iveco plant and several foundries

Top Things to Do & See

Parque da Cascata (Waterfall Park)

Located in Serra de Santa Helena (~3–7 km from center), it features 295 ha of native forest, paved trails, a 35 m waterfall, a 450 m artificial lake with a beach, and a scenic mirante (viewpoint).

Gruta Rei do Mato (Cave of the Forest King)

About 60 km away near BR‑040 highway, this limestone cave offers ancient paintings (6,000 years old), rare stalactite formations, and paleontological finds.

Municipal History & Railroad Museums

• Museu Histórico Municipal—in an 18th-century house, showcasing local history from colonial days.

• Museu Ferroviário—located in the old station, with vintage locomotives and railway artifacts.

Lagoas & Waterfront Leisure

Explore the seven “official” lakes like Lagoa Paulino—the most vibrant, bordered by bars and pedal‑boat rentals—and tranquil Lagoa da Boa Vista, with weekend markets and sports space 

Serra de Santa Helena & Capela

The Serra peaks at ~1,076 m and hosts the historic Capela de Santa Helena (built 1852), plus hiking, paragliding, and sweeping views—especially at sunset.

Nightlife & Culture

A lively nightlife scene offers live music, festivals, theatres, and dance nights. Cultural centers and municipal events bring samba, sertanejo and regional celebrations to life 

Eat & Drink

Sample traditional Minas Gerais cuisine like feijão tropeiro, pão de queijo, frango com quiabo, doce de leite, and regional specialties like galopé and muchacho (chicken and pork dishes with cheese). Local favorites:

• Cabana do Peixe

• Fogão de Minas

• Mistura Fina

• Restaurante Milano (pizza & regional dishes)

Enjoy lakeside bars around Lagoa Paulino for cocktails or caipirinhas.

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: Year-round mild climate; ideal outdoor season is September–November, especially for hiking, lakes & paragliding on Serra de Santa Helena 

• Getting there: Via Belo Horizonte (about 70 km), accessible via BR‑040 or day trips.

• Local transport: Taxis, Uber, or rent a car—public buses cover the city; some attractions easier with local driver/tour.

• Safety & health: Take usual precautions—carry sunscreen, insect repellent, bottled water; language is Portuguese, English rarely spoken 

Where to Stay & Recommended Accommodation

Options include:

• Lago Palace Hotel — well-located near Lagoa Paulino

• Hotel Real

• Hotel Vila Serrana

• Sete Lagoas Residence Hotel 

Recommended pick: Lago Palace Hotel for its central location, lakeside view, and walkable access to cafés and attractions.

Accommodation Rating: 7.5/10 — comfortable, local standards, with a few tourist-friendly stays.