Belo Horizonte has a tropical climate that is milder than you might expect, thanks to its elevation. Temperatures typically range between 17 and 27 degrees Celsius year-round. Remember that seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere — summer runs December through February, winter June through August.
The wet season (October to March) brings heavy rain, especially in December. Summer is hot and humid. Winter is dry and cooler — July can dip as low as 2 degrees Celsius on rare nights, though daytime temperatures are pleasant.
Best time to visit: May, June, and August offer the best balance — warm days, little rain, and comfortable evenings. September and October are warming up but increasingly wet.
Carnival takes place before Lent, usually in February. Belo Horizonte's carnival is famous — samba performances in stadiums and streets, elaborate costumes, and a city that does not sleep. Flights and prices spike, so book months ahead. If you are not interested in carnival, avoid this period entirely.
The city also hosts an International Theater Festival (biennial), the FID dance festival, and a Short Film Festival in November with free screenings.