Traveling to Juiz de Fora, Brazil, for the 1º Encontradições CSA Caminho Novo on October 31–November 1, 2026? This Narcotics Anonymous fellowship gathering offers an opportunity to connect with members in Minas Gerais while discovering a city known for its green hills, historic architecture, museums, and distinctive regional food.
The gathering's theme is “12 Tradições, a Essência da Liberdade”, meaning “12 Traditions, the Essence of Freedom.” Organized by CSA Caminho Novo in the Minas Region, the event focuses on one of the foundations of Narcotics Anonymous: the Twelve Traditions that help protect the fellowship's unity and purpose.
According to the official Narcóticos Anônimos Brasil calendar, the event begins at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 31, and concludes at 10 a.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026. The published location is BR-040, kilometer 791, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais.
Juiz de Fora is a major city in southeastern Minas Gerais, conveniently situated between Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte. Its location makes it accessible by road and intercity bus, while its parks, museums, and lively downtown provide plenty to explore around the fellowship weekend.
Whether you're visiting from another Brazilian city or traveling internationally, this guide will help you plan transportation, find accommodations, experience local attractions, and make the most of your time in Juiz de Fora.
Getting to Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais
Juiz de Fora lies in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais, approximately 180 kilometers north of Rio de Janeiro by road.
The city is surrounded by rolling hills and has long served as an important regional center for education, commerce, and culture.
Although Juiz de Fora has its own urban airport, travelers should also consider the regional airport and larger international airports when planning their journey.
Arriving at Zona da Mata Regional Airport
Presidente Itamar Franco Airport (IZA), also known as Aeroporto Regional da Zona da Mata, is a convenient regional airport serving Juiz de Fora and surrounding communities.
It is located outside the city, near Goianá and Rio Novo, so arriving passengers still need ground transportation to Juiz de Fora.
Flight availability depends on current airline schedules. Compare available connections with those through Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte before booking.
The airport's official website lists taxi and rental-car services, along with ground transfers connecting the terminal with Juiz de Fora's bus station.
If you're attending an event outside the downtown area, renting a car or arranging a direct transfer may be especially helpful.
Visit the official Zona da Mata Airport website for current flight and transportation information.
Arriving Through Rio de Janeiro
For many international visitors, Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG) provides another practical gateway.
From Rio, Juiz de Fora can be reached by intercity bus or rental car.
Buses operate between Rio de Janeiro's Novo Rio bus terminal and Juiz de Fora, with typical journey times of approximately three to four hours, depending on the service and traffic.
Remember to include the journey from the airport to the bus terminal when calculating your total travel time.
If you're arriving after a long international flight, consider choosing a departure that leaves enough time for immigration, baggage collection, and ground transportation.
For bus schedules and tickets, consult the Rodoviária do Rio booking website.
Traveling from Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais, is another possible starting point.
However, it is farther from Juiz de Fora than Rio de Janeiro, so travelers should compare driving and bus times before choosing flights through Belo Horizonte.
The road journey requires several hours and may be affected by traffic and weather.
For visitors attending a relatively short weekend event, total travel time is worth considering when comparing airport options.
Getting to the Encontradições Event
The official Narcóticos Anônimos Brasil listing confirms:
Event: 1º Encontradições CSA Caminho Novo
Theme: 12 Tradições, a Essência da Liberdade
Dates: October 31 – November 1, 2026
Start: Saturday at 2:00 p.m.
Finish: Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
Destination: Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Published location: Rodovia BR-040, km 791
Area: CSA Caminho Novo
Region: CSR Minas
The location is listed by highway kilometer marker rather than a named hotel, conference center, or full street address.
Confirm the Exact Entrance Before Traveling
BR-040 is a major highway, and a kilometer marker may not provide enough information to identify the correct driveway or entrance.
Before departing, obtain the event's current directions and, ideally, a map pin from the organizers.
Confirm whether the gathering is at a retreat property, event hall, or another type of facility.
The official online listing does not specify admission costs, meals, accommodation arrangements, or a complete activity schedule.
These details should be confirmed directly rather than assumed.
For visitors arriving by bus, it is particularly important to arrange transportation from Juiz de Fora's bus station to the highway location.
A regular city bus may not serve the event entrance.
Transportation After Dark
Because the gathering continues overnight, consider how you will return to your accommodations.
If you're using a taxi or app-based ride, confirm that the driver can reach the property and arrange your return trip.
Travelers with a rental car should check whether parking is available at the venue.
Avoid arriving at an unfamiliar highway location after dark without confirmed directions.
The official event announcement is the primary source for updates.
Where to Stay in Juiz de Fora
Juiz de Fora offers hotels, serviced accommodations, and guesthouses across several parts of the city.
The best location depends on whether you want to prioritize sightseeing or proximity to the gathering.
Staying Downtown
The city center is a convenient option for visitors who want access to restaurants, shops, museums, and cultural landmarks.
Downtown attractions include Parque Halfeld, the historic railway station, and several important cultural institutions.
If you choose a hotel here, remember that the event is listed along BR-040 rather than in the city center.
Plan your transfer accordingly.
Staying Near the Southern Districts
Areas around Cascatinha, Teixeiras, and the southern part of Juiz de Fora may be useful for visitors who want access to major roads and shopping facilities.
However, the best location will depend on which stretch of BR-040 you need to reach.
Confirm the venue's exact entrance before booking accommodations solely on the basis of neighborhood proximity.
Accommodation Planning Tips
If you're traveling with friends, sharing a hotel room or vacation rental may help reduce costs.
Before reserving, confirm parking, late-night entry, breakfast availability, and cancellation policies.
Because the event occurs over Halloween weekend and ends Sunday morning, plan your checkout time carefully.
Don't assume a hotel will offer a late checkout without prior arrangements.
Explore Parque Halfeld
One of Juiz de Fora's most recognizable public spaces is Parque Halfeld, located in the downtown district near Avenida Rio Branco and Rua Halfeld.
This historic urban park provides a pleasant green setting surrounded by commercial streets and older buildings.
Visitors will find walking paths, benches, trees, and architectural features that reflect the city's heritage.
Parque Halfeld is an easy destination to include in a short sightseeing itinerary.
You can enjoy a relaxed walk, spend time outdoors, or take a break between meals and other activities.
The park's central location also makes it a useful starting point for exploring downtown Juiz de Fora on foot.
For visitors interested in local architecture, the surrounding streets contain examples of the city's historic commercial and civic buildings.
Consult the official UFJF visitor guide to Juiz de Fora for more information about this and other local attractions.
Visit the Museu Mariano Procópio
The Museu Mariano Procópio is one of Juiz de Fora's most important cultural attractions.
Located at Rua Mariano Procópio 1100, the museum occupies an impressive historic property surrounded by landscaped grounds.
Its collections include artwork, historic furnishings, documents, and objects connected with Brazilian history.
The museum is particularly relevant to visitors interested in the nineteenth century and Brazil's imperial period.
Explore the Historic Villa
One of the highlights is Villa Ferreira Lage, a historic residence associated with the museum's collection.
Visitors can learn about the property's history while exploring interiors furnished with period objects.
The building and its collections offer a distinctive perspective on the city's cultural heritage.
Enjoy the Museum Park
The surrounding park is another reason to visit.
Its green spaces provide an attractive setting for walking and enjoying the grounds.
The city's visitor information lists the park as normally open Tuesday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the museum from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Because special events, maintenance, and public holidays may affect access, verify the current schedule before arriving.
For a visit immediately before the Saturday event, the museum can be an excellent choice if your schedule allows.
Learn more through the official Museu Mariano Procópio information.
Discover the Jardim Botânico da UFJF
Another excellent attraction is the Jardim Botânico da Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, or UFJF Botanical Garden.
The garden preserves part of the Atlantic Forest within the urban area of Juiz de Fora.
It offers an opportunity to experience native vegetation, forest trails, and environmental education without traveling far outside the city.
The grounds include walking paths, a lake, and spaces designed to help visitors understand the region's biodiversity.
A Great Option for Nature Lovers
The botanical garden is particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy photography, botany, or a peaceful outdoor walk.
It provides a quieter contrast to the busy commercial center.
Admission is free.
For the October 31–November 1, 2026 weekend, the university has specifically confirmed that the garden will open Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last entry at 4 p.m.
It will be closed Friday, October 30, and Monday, November 2, because of the university's holiday schedule.
This makes the weekend dates particularly useful for anyone wanting to visit before or after fellowship activities.
Visit the official UFJF Botanical Garden website for visitor guidance.
Relax at Parque da Lajinha
If you'd prefer a large outdoor park with a natural setting, consider Parque Natural Municipal da Lajinha.
Located along Avenida Deusdedith Salgado, this protected area includes remnants of native Atlantic Forest vegetation.
The park is known for its lake, walking trails, gardens, and recreational areas.
It is a good destination for travelers seeking a relaxed activity without committing to a long excursion.
Walking and Photography
Visitors can explore designated paths and enjoy the surrounding vegetation.
The lake offers opportunities for landscape photography, while the wooded sections provide shade and a chance to experience the area's natural environment.
The park generally opens Tuesday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission is free.
However, opening arrangements can change because of weather, maintenance, or local decisions.
Check current access information before visiting, particularly if your schedule is limited.
For additional details, see the Minas Gerais tourism guide to Parque da Lajinha.
Enjoy the View from Morro do Cristo
For visitors who enjoy panoramic scenery, Morro do Cristo is one of Juiz de Fora's best-known viewpoints.
The hill rises above the surrounding urban landscape, providing broad views of the city and nearby green hills.
A statue of Christ stands at the summit, which also contains visitor facilities and viewpoints.
Morro do Cristo is particularly appealing for photography.
Planning Your Visit
A trip to the viewpoint gives visitors an opportunity to appreciate Juiz de Fora's geography.
From above, the city appears nestled among hills and valleys.
Access is by road, and visitors should follow the established route rather than improvising a hike through unfamiliar hillside neighborhoods.
The official visitor information lists the viewpoint as open daily, including holidays, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For a short event weekend, a daytime visit is preferable because it leaves flexibility for travel and fellowship activities.
Check conditions before heading uphill, particularly during wet weather.
Discover the Historic Railway Station
Juiz de Fora's railway heritage is another important part of the city's identity.
The Estação Ferroviária de Juiz de Fora, near Praça Dr. João Penido in the central district, is a historic landmark associated with the city's growth and regional connections.
Its architecture features a distinctive clock tower, decorative details, and a long station building.
Although ordinary intercity passenger journeys today primarily rely on road transportation, the station remains an important part of the city's architectural heritage.
For travelers interested in history, architecture, or photography, the exterior provides an appealing sightseeing stop.
Nearby Railway Heritage
Juiz de Fora also has a railway museum and historical collections associated with the development of rail transportation.
Access and operating hours may vary, so check before planning an indoor visit.
Even if museum facilities are closed, a walk around the publicly accessible historic station area can help visitors understand the city's transportation history.
The station's architecture is especially attractive in daylight.
Explore the Museu de Arte Murilo Mendes
The Museu de Arte Murilo Mendes, often called MAMM, is another worthwhile cultural stop.
Part of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, the museum is located at Rua Benjamin Constant 790.
Its exhibits and collections focus on art and cultural expression, and its name honors the Brazilian poet Murilo Mendes.
Special Hours for the Event Weekend
The university's October 28, 2026 notice confirms that MAMM will operate on the following schedule:
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Friday, October 30: 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
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Saturday, October 31: 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
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Sunday, November 1: 1 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
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Monday, November 2: Closed.
Admission is free.
These hours make the museum a practical choice for travelers arriving early on Friday or spending time in Juiz de Fora before the event begins Saturday afternoon.
Another nearby attraction, the Memorial Itamar Franco, is scheduled to open Saturday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., although that timing may conflict with the fellowship gathering.
For the latest holiday schedules, consult the official UFJF announcement.
Experience the Food of Minas Gerais
One of the pleasures of visiting Juiz de Fora is enjoying the food of Minas Gerais.
The state is famous throughout Brazil for its traditional cooking, hearty meals, cheese, sweets, and welcoming cafés.
Regional Foods to Try
Pão de queijo is one of Minas Gerais's most recognizable foods. These small cheese breads are commonly enjoyed with coffee and make an easy breakfast or snack.
Feijão tropeiro is a traditional dish prepared with beans, cassava flour, and other ingredients that vary by restaurant.
Frango com quiabo combines chicken with okra and is a popular regional specialty.
Tutu de feijão is made from cooked beans thickened with flour and served with traditional accompaniments.
Doce de leite is another favorite, often enjoyed as a dessert or sweet filling.
Visitors may also encounter locally produced cheeses and preserves.
When selecting restaurants, look for places that serve comida mineira, the traditional cuisine of Minas Gerais.
If you're attending the overnight gathering, plan a satisfying meal beforehand unless the organizers confirm that food is included.
Markets and Cafés
The Mercado Municipal de Juiz de Fora offers an opportunity to explore local ingredients, regional products, and everyday shopping.
Markets can be enjoyable places to experience local culture.
They may also offer opportunities to purchase snacks or small gifts before departing.
Check Sunday opening hours in advance, particularly because the event weekend leads into the November 2 public holiday.
Weather in Juiz de Fora During Late October
Late October marks spring in southeastern Brazil.
Juiz de Fora generally experiences mild to warm temperatures, increasing humidity, and the possibility of rain.
Daytime temperatures can reach the mid-20s Celsius, approximately the mid-70s Fahrenheit, while evenings may feel cooler.
Rain showers and thunderstorms are possible.
The city's hilly geography also means that weather conditions can vary between neighborhoods and higher elevations.
What to Pack
Bring comfortable, lightweight clothing, a light jacket, walking shoes, a compact umbrella, and a rain-resistant outer layer.
If you're planning to visit parks or forest trails, consider shoes suitable for muddy conditions.
A portable phone charger and insect repellent may also be useful.
For the fellowship gathering, pack clothing that is comfortable for extended periods indoors and bring an extra layer in case temperatures fall overnight.
Check the forecast before traveling, particularly if you're driving along BR-040.
Getting Around Juiz de Fora
Juiz de Fora has a municipal bus network and widely available taxi and app-based transportation options.
For downtown sightseeing, walking can be convenient because several attractions are located relatively close together.
However, the city has steep streets and varied terrain.
A destination that appears nearby on a map may involve a significant uphill walk.
For trips to parks, viewpoints, and the event location outside the central district, road transportation may be more practical.
Currency, Language, and Payments
Brazil uses the Brazilian real (BRL).
Portuguese is the official language, and it is the language most commonly used for everyday communication.
Learning a few basic phrases can make the trip easier.
Useful expressions include bom dia for good morning, obrigado or obrigada for thank you, and por favor for please.
Cards are widely accepted in urban areas, and Brazil's Pix payment system is common.
However, international visitors may not have access to Pix, so carry a payment method accepted by local businesses.
Find Other Narcotics Anonymous Meetings
If you're arriving early or staying after the event, you may want to attend additional Narcotics Anonymous meetings in Juiz de Fora.
The Brazilian NA service structure provides meeting directories and contact information for local groups.
Use the official Narcóticos Anônimos Brasil website to locate current meetings or contact the local fellowship.
The site's in-person meeting finder is a useful starting point.
Meeting arrangements can change, so verify the time and address before attending.
A Simple Itinerary for the Weekend
Friday, October 30: Arrive in Juiz de Fora, check into your accommodation, and confirm your transportation to BR-040 kilometer 791. If time allows, visit Parque Halfeld or the Museu de Arte Murilo Mendes. Purchase any supplies needed for the weekend.
Saturday, October 31: Enjoy breakfast and a short daytime outing. The UFJF Botanical Garden and Parque da Lajinha are options if your schedule permits. Return to your accommodation, prepare for the event, and travel to the gathering before its 2 p.m. start.
Sunday, November 1: The official event concludes at 10 a.m. If you're staying longer, consider a relaxed afternoon visiting a museum or enjoying local food. Avoid scheduling an ambitious excursion immediately after an overnight gathering.
Monday, November 2: If you're extending your visit, remember that Finados is a national public holiday in Brazil. University attractions and some businesses will be closed. Confirm transportation and opening hours before making plans.
This flexible itinerary allows you to experience Juiz de Fora while keeping the fellowship event as the focus of the trip.
The Importance of the Twelve Traditions
The theme of the 1º Encontradições CSA Caminho Novo highlights the Twelve Traditions of Narcotics Anonymous.
These principles help guide the way NA groups function, maintain unity, and remain focused on carrying the recovery message.
For attendees, a traditions-focused gathering can offer opportunities to reflect on service, responsibility, anonymity, and the spiritual foundations of the fellowship.
Traveling to another area also creates opportunities to meet members with different experiences and perspectives.
The shared purpose remains the same: supporting recovery through the Narcotics Anonymous program.
Juiz de Fora provides an appealing setting for this experience, with its cultural heritage, green spaces, regional cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere.
Whether your favorite part of the weekend is a fellowship discussion, a conversation with another member, or a peaceful walk through one of the city's parks, the trip can offer something meaningful.
Plan Your Visit
Event: 1º Encontradições CSA Caminho Novo – 12 Tradições, a Essência da Liberdade
Dates: October 31 – November 1, 2026
Hours: Saturday, 2:00 p.m., through Sunday, 10:00 a.m.
Destination: Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Published location: Rodovia BR-040, km 791
Organizing area: CSA Caminho Novo
Region: CSR Minas
Registration, meals, and accommodation: Confirm with the event organizers.
Important: The official announcement provides a highway kilometer marker but does not identify a named venue or exact entrance. Obtain detailed directions before traveling.
View this event in Dan's Custom Gifts NA Event Directory
View the official event announcement — Narcóticos Anônimos Brasil
Photo: Cadu Mello / Pexels