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Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul
Mato Grosso was once Brazil’s wild west, a land known only to indigenous hunters, poachers, gold seekers and naturalists. Today, some of Brazil’s most photogenic wildlife and incredible scenery make it a prime destination for ecotourists and anglers.
The Pantanal, one of the most important and fragile ecosystems on the planet, truly shines as Brazil’s top destination for animal-spotting and bird-watching. The attractions don't stop there: the crystal-clear rivers and cave lakes around Bonito and Bom Jardim allow you to explore a remarkable underwater world by donning a scuba tank or snorkeling mask.
In the far-north town of Alta Floresta, the cerrado (savanna) morphs into the Amazon; in the south near Bonito, the Serra da Bodoquena is a breathtakingly beautiful, watery wonderland. In between the two, the Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães has some of the most commanding plateau views in Brazil.
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Top attractions
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul.
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Véu de Noiva
The impressive Véu de Noiva, an 86m free-falling waterfall, provides the park’s characteristic postcard moment. A small trail leads to the lookout, perched on top of rocks with the canyon below. This is one of Chapada’s most dazzling spots; no guide necessary. It is around 9km west of Chapada town. You can get off the bus from Cuiabá at the park turnoff, spend a couple of hours, then flag down the next bus to Chapada. The visitors center here has a restaurant.
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Cachoeirinha & Cachoeira dos Namorados
These two gentle, pretty waterfalls are reached via a 1km trail from the carpark at Véu de Noiva. They are very popular with local families as they have safe bathing for children and the closest beach is a thousand miles away.
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Aquário de Bonito
If you can’t tell a pacu from a piraputanga, wade through this makeshift aquarium of Pantanal peixes. A rainy day activity.