January is not an ideal time to visit Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Here are a few reasons why:
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Hot and Rainy Weather: January is in the middle of the rainy season in Belo Horizonte, and the weather is hot and humid. The average temperature in January is around 22°C (71°F), but it can feel much hotter due to the high humidity. There is also a good chance of rain, with an average of 14 rainy days in January.
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Crowds and High Prices: January is also a popular time for domestic tourism in Brazil, as many people take their summer vacations during this month. This can lead to large crowds and higher prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions.
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Limited Outdoor Activities: The weather in January is not ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or swimming. The rain can make trails muddy and slippery, and the heat can be oppressive.
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Closed Attractions: Some attractions in Belo Horizonte may be closed or have reduced hours during January due to the low season.
Overall, if you are planning a trip to Belo Horizonte, it is best to avoid January and consider visiting during the dry season (May to September) when the weather is more pleasant, there are fewer crowds, and prices are lower.
Weather In Belo Horizonte During January
Belo Horizonte in January experiences hot and humid weather.
- Average temperature: The average temperature in January is 23°C (73°F), ranging from a daily high of 29°C (84°F) to a daily low of 17°C (63°F).
- Humidity: The relative humidity averages around 70-80%, making the air feel muggy and uncomfortable.
- Rainfall: January is the rainiest month in Belo Horizonte. The city receives an average of 250mm (10 inches) of rainfall during the month, spread across approximately 18 rainy days. The rain typically falls in short, heavy bursts, followed by periods of sunshine.
- Sunshine: Despite the rain, Belo Horizonte still enjoys an average of 7 hours of sunshine per day in January.
- Wind: The wind is generally light and variable, with an average speed of around 10km/h (6mph).
Overall, the weather in Belo Horizonte in January is characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and frequent rain. It’s advisable to pack light, breathable clothing, an umbrella or raincoat, and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
Things To Do In Belo Horizonte In January
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January 1st
- New Year’s Day
- The biggest holiday in Brazil, New Year’s Day is celebrated with fireworks, parties, and feasts. In Belo Horizonte, you can enjoy the festivities at the Praça da Liberdade, where there is a free concert and fireworks display.
- New Year’s Day
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January 6th
- Epiphany
- A Christian holiday that celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus. In Belo Horizonte, there is a procession through the streets of the city center, followed by a mass at the Catedral da Boa Viagem.
- Epiphany
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January 20th
- São Sebastião Festival
- A religious festival that honors the patron saint of Belo Horizonte. There are processions, masses, and music performances throughout the city. The main event is a parade through the streets of the city center, featuring floats, dancers, and musicians.
- São Sebastião Festival
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January 25th
- Belo Horizonte City Anniversary
- A celebration of the founding of Belo Horizonte in 1897. There are concerts, parades, and fireworks displays throughout the city. The main event is a free concert at the Praça da Liberdade, featuring some of Brazil’s most popular musicians.
- Belo Horizonte City Anniversary
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Other things to see and do in Belo Horizonte in January:
- Visit the Mercado Central, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
- Take a hike up Serra do Curral, a mountain range that offers stunning views of the city.
- Visit the Parque Municipal, a large park with gardens, playgrounds, and a lake.
- See a show at the Palácio das Artes, a performing arts center that hosts concerts, plays, and dance performances.
- Enjoy the nightlife in Savassi, a trendy neighborhood with bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Tourism In Belo Horizonte, Brazil During January
January in Belo Horizonte, Brazil is typically a great time to visit, with warm and sunny weather, a vibrant cultural scene, and a variety of attractions to enjoy. Here are some highlights of tourism in Belo Horizonte during January:
Weather: January is one of the warmest months in Belo Horizonte, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is generally sunny and dry, with occasional rain showers.
Events and Festivals: January is a month of cultural celebrations in Belo Horizonte. The city hosts several events and festivals, including the Belo Horizonte International Film Festival, which showcases a diverse range of films from around the world. There are also music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional Brazilian cultural events to enjoy.
Attractions: Belo Horizonte is home to several attractions worth exploring. The Pampulha Modernist Complex, designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features iconic buildings, gardens, and a lake. The city also has several museums, including the Museum of Minas Gerais and the Inhotim Contemporary Art Museum, which houses a collection of contemporary art sculptures and installations in a beautiful natural setting.
Gastronomy: Belo Horizonte is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Brazilian dishes and international cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as “feijão tropeiro” (a bean stew with pork and sausage), “pão de queijo” (cheese bread), and “mineiro” (a stew made with pork, beans, and vegetables).
Nightlife: Belo Horizonte has a lively nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes. The Savassi neighborhood is a popular spot for nightlife, with a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from.
While January is a great time to visit Belo Horizonte, it’s important to note that it can also be a busy time, especially during the weekends and public holidays. It’s a good idea to book your accommodation and tours in advance, particularly if you’re planning to visit during a festival or event.