Mato Grosso do Sul

Located in Brazil’s Central‑West region, Mato Grosso do Sul is renowned for its stunning natural beauty—from the wetlands of the Pantanal to the crystal-clear rivers and caves of Bonito. The state blends biodiversity, eco-adventure, and cultural fusion in its capital, Campo Grande.

 Top Things to Do

1. Bonito & Serra da Bodoquena National Park
   Snorkel or dive crystal rivers like Rio da Prata and Aquário Natural, explore Gruta do Lago Azul cave and enjoy waterfalls, zip-lining, and eco tours.

2. Buraco das Araras (Jardim)
   Visit this enormous doline—the largest eco sinkhole in Latin America—for birdwatching (macaws, toucans, ibis) and a ~900m guided trail through a unique geological formation.

3. Pantanal National Park
   UNESCO biosphere reserve across MS and MT, protected for jaguars, capybaras, anacondas, marsh deer, macaws and more. Wildlife safaris via boat, jeep, horseback across Corumbá, Aquidauana, Coxim and Fazenda stays.

4. Formosa River Ecological Park & Figueira Beach
   Rapids, rafting, horseback rides and riverside relaxation near Bonito along the Formoso River.

5. Campo Grande City Experiences
   Stroll Arena Central Fair and Feira Central, sample local sobá noodles, relax in Parque das Nações Indígenas and visit the BioParque Pantanal—the world’s largest freshwater aquarium.

 Eat & Drink – Local Flavors

• Sobá – A beloved noodle soup in Campo Grande, adapted from Okinawan soba with beef, omelette strips and green onion. It’s celebrated with an annual festival each August.

• Arroz carreteiro, espetinhos (skewers), milho-based snacks like pamonha & curau, plus fresh fruit juices—many vendors served at the Central Fair.

• Regional caipirinha cocktails and guaraná soft drinks are common refreshers after eco-excursions.

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: May–September (dry season for wildlife viewing, excellent water clarity in rivers); December–March brings lush scenery and powerful waterfalls.

• Getting around: Fly into Campo Grande; rent a car or join guided tours. Eco-lodges and fazendas offer immersive stays. Day trips to Pantanal from Campo Grande are tiring—plan overnight lodge stays.

• Health & Safety: Yellow fever vaccination recommended if visiting Pantanal. Use insect repellent—mosquitoes are prevalent, especially during rainy months. Stay hydrated and apply sun protection

 Where to Stay & Recommended Stays

• Campo Grande – For urban convenience, lodging around city center, near Parque das Nações Indígenas or Central Fair.

• Bonito region – Eco-lodges and pousadas near caves and rivers, ideal for multi-day adventure itineraries.

• Fazendas in Pantanal – Wildlife lodges near Corumbá, Aquidauana or Poconé offering full-board safari options.