Timeline
08:00
Descend 315 meters into Mina da Passagem. This is the world's largest mine open to the public. You will ride a small trolley held by a steel cable down into the excavation. The visit is guided, but note that guides do not speak English, so bring a translator or someone who can help interpret.
09:15
Walk to Pau a Pique for a snack. This bar offers a great selection of local bites like country sausage, chorizo, and pork rind. It is a perfect spot to refuel after the mine visit.
09:45
Head to Mina Velha. Opened in 1704, this is the oldest mine in town. It was dug by slaves and shows the stark contrast between hand-dug mines and the industrial scale of Mina da Passagem. Look closely for the veins of mica in the rock.
Local tip
The guide at Mina da Passagem normally does not speak English. Make sure you have someone with you who can translate, or prepare a translation app.
Check before you go
- Mina da Passagem requires a guide. Verify if you need to book in advance.
- Check the opening hours for Pau a Pique to ensure it is open when you arrive.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Ouro Preto (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).