Serra do Espinhaço Dorsal Circuit

The Serra do Espinhaço runs like a spine through Minas Gerais, and this 240km circuit follows mining roads that thread between quartzite peaks and abandoned diamond workings. You’ll cross the continental divide multiple times, navigate through the historic mining town of Diamantina, and tackle the steep descent into the Rio Jequitinhonha valley. The route passes Pico do Itambé at 2,002 meters, where the road becomes a rocky ledge carved into the mountainside.

This is moderate to difficult terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD with low-range gearing and good tires. Rocky climbs, loose descents, and narrow shelf roads demand attention. Dry season from May to September offers the best conditions, though mountain weather changes fast. No permits required, but fuel up in Diamantina and carry extra water. Camping is allowed on public lands, and you’ll find locals selling cachaça and fresh cheese at roadside stops. The payoff is raw Brazilian highlands geology and isolation most tourists never see.