From Belo Horizonte: Regular buses run from the rodoviária in Belo Horizonte to Congonhas, taking about 90 minutes on the BR-040. The trip works well as a day excursion combined with Ouro Preto.
From Ouro Preto: Buses run several times a day, taking about 90 minutes via Conselheiro Lafaiete. The road winds through typical Minas Gerais mining country.
By car: Congonhas is on the BR-040 between Belo Horizonte and Rio de Janeiro, with a clearly signposted exit. Parking is straightforward at the sanctuary.