Parque Horto dos Contos Ouro Preto
A free, historic botanical garden and nature park in Ouro Preto's center, offering trails, wildlife, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Parque Horto dos Contos Ouro Preto
Best Time
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, historic botanical garden and nature park in Ouro Preto's center, offering trails, wildlife, and a peaceful escape.
"A hidden gem providing a relaxing walk in nature with the sounds of birds and water. "
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park has a 2.5 km trail with inclines. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Perfect for a picnic! Pack some refreshments to enjoy amidst nature.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Nature Trails
Throughout the park
Wander through lush Atlantic Forest, listen to birdsong, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Fonte dos Desejos
Within the park
Make a wish at this charming fountain, a popular spot for visitors seeking a bit of magic.

Historic Gold Mine
Within the park
Discover remnants of Ouro Preto's rich mining past with a visit to a deactivated gold mine.
Amphitheater
Within the park
An open-air space offering a unique setting for events or simply a moment of reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, But Plan Your Access
Embrace the Nature Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park has a 2.5 km trail with inclines. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Perfect for a picnic! Pack some refreshments to enjoy amidst nature.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Park
Bring your furry friends along for a walk in this beautiful natural space.
🗺️ Know Your Entrance
Choose from three main entrances: Rodoviária, Pilar, or Museu da Casa dos Contos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park has a 2.5 km trail with inclines. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Perfect for a picnic! Pack some refreshments to enjoy amidst nature.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Park
Bring your furry friends along for a walk in this beautiful natural space.
🗺️ Know Your Entrance
Choose from three main entrances: Rodoviária, Pilar, or Museu da Casa dos Contos.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Generally open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, but confirm seasonal closures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Parque Horto dos Contos as a serene and beautiful natural escape within Ouro Preto, highlighting its free entry and the relaxing atmosphere created by birdsong and water sounds. Some reviewers note it can be a bit hidden and occasionally closed for maintenance or due to information requests, but overall, it's considered a well-maintained public treasure.
"Closed without giving notice why. Seems to be a thing in Ouro Preto"
Marcel Michels
"Bit of a hidden gem, not the easiest to find but a lovely walk in nature"
Mike C
"Closed for seasonal maintenance"
Pierre Cumbo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park has three main entrances: near the Rodoviária (bus station), in the Pilar neighborhood, and by the Museu da Casa dos Contos. It's conveniently located within the city center, making it accessible on foot from many accommodations.
While some travelers have inquired about Uber in Ouro Preto, it's not as prevalent as in larger cities. It's advisable to check availability upon arrival or consider local taxis for convenience.
Yes, the park is situated in the heart of Ouro Preto, making it easily walkable from the main historic attractions like Praça Tiradentes.
The best entrance depends on your starting point. The entrance near the Museu da Casa dos Contos is popular and offers a scenic start to your walk.
The park features a 2.5 km trail with inclines, which might be challenging for some individuals with mobility issues. It's best to assess the terrain before visiting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to Parque Horto dos Contos is completely free! Visitors only need to register at one of the park's entrances.
The park is generally open every day from 8 AM to 6 PM. However, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal maintenance or temporary closures.
Advance booking is not required as the entry is free. Simply show up and register at the entrance.
Yes, the park is open daily, including weekends. However, weekends might be busier with local visitors.
The main requirement is a simple registration at the entrance. Some reviews mention requests for private information, so be aware of what you're sharing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a 2.5 km nature trail through the Atlantic Forest, visit the Fonte dos Desejos, see an old gold mine, and relax in the amphitheater. It's also great for birdwatching and picnics.
Yes, the park has spaces for children to play and offers a safe environment for them to explore nature.
Absolutely! The park is pet-friendly, so you can bring your dog along for a walk.
A leisurely walk along the 2.5 km trail can take about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on how long you stop to enjoy the scenery or have a picnic.
The park features a nature trail with some inclines, making it a moderate walk. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush greenery, the Fonte dos Desejos, and the amphitheater offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The natural light filtering through the trees is also very picturesque.
The park is known for its diverse birdlife, making it a great spot for bird photography. You might also spot small mammals like marmosets.
There are no specific mentions of drone regulations for Parque Horto dos Contos. It's always best to check local ordinances or inquire at the park entrance before flying a drone.
Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the park's serene atmosphere. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
The Fonte dos Desejos and the views from the amphitheater are popular spots that many visitors capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Historical Oasis in Ouro Preto
Today, the park serves as a vital municipal conservation unit, protecting a significant portion of the Atlantic Forest biome within the city limits. Its 32 hectares are home to diverse flora and fauna, including a rich variety of bird species. Visitors can explore its 2.5 km of trails, discovering features like the 'Fonte dos Desejos' (Fountain of Wishes) and even remnants of a deactivated gold mine, connecting the natural landscape with the area's mining heritage.
The park's accessibility and free entry are highlighted as major positives by visitors. It's seen as a valuable public asset, offering a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature without any cost. This approach to preserving and sharing natural heritage is highly appreciated, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.
Navigating the Park: Entrances and Trails
The park's main attraction is its 2.5 km nature trail, which winds through the Atlantic Forest. While the trail is generally well-maintained, it does feature some inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. The path is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering opportunities for birdwatching, enjoying the sounds of nature, and discovering points of interest like the 'Fonte dos Desejos' and an old gold mine.
Many visitors appreciate the park's pet-friendly policy, allowing them to bring their dogs along for the walk. It's also an ideal spot for a picnic, with designated areas available. The combination of natural beauty, historical elements, and practical amenities makes the Parque Horto dos Contos a delightful experience for all types of visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit