This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Pirenópolis.
Pirenópolis is a town located in the state of Goias, in Brazil. Chiefly known for its pristine waterfalls and its period colonial architecture, it is also known for the Catholic festivities that occur almost regularly in cadence with the Catholic calendar.
This strongly Christian town possesses a rich history that dates back to the eighteenth century. Originally called Minas de Nossa Senhora do Rosario de Meia Ponte, Pirenópolis (literally, "the City of the Pireneus") was originally a mining settlement community, initially populated by Portuguese, Spanish, and Catalan settlers who came to the mountain ranges situated near the city for the gold which was then abundant in the Rio das Alamas. From the mining settlement grew a small community that soon flourished, with the main source of profits veering from gold and silver mining. Once a very rich city, Pirenópolis is famed today for its historical architecture, which is a testament to the city’s past grandeur.
Today, Pirenópolis is chiefly visited by tourists mainly for the historical attractions that litter the whole of the city. Formerly known as a prime hippie destination during the early eighties, it later became a tourist attraction due to the number of large, ornate, architectural marvels that were restored for just such a purpose. Pirenópolis is also famed for the Festas de Cavalhadas, a historic parade that dates back to the time of the city’s foundations, wherein a mock battle between Moors and Christians is recreated for three whole days.
Aside from this, a larger feast known as the Festa do Espirito Santo also attracts droves of tourists to the spot. Nature lovers and adventurers alike will also have their fill of Pirenópolis’ amazing natural wonders, such as the Vargem Grande and the Santuario Vagafogo.
Finding Pirenópolis hostels is easy enough; the most popular are known for their cleanliness and meticulousness and flawless service and are centrally located in the very heart of the city proper, allowing you easy access to restaurants, cafes, eateries, and all the sights and sounds of the central city. Because Pirenópolis is a prime tourist spot, especially during the Festa do Espirito Santo, booking hostels two weeks to a month in advance is advisable, lest one encounter difficulties upon arrival. Even in non-peak seasons, Pirenópolis tends to be packed with tourists, so a cursory inquiry and initial booking prior to arrival should be considered standard protocol.
Written by local enthusiast for Pirenópolis hostels
Angelica Burrage
