Mato Grosso do Sul
· BR

Mato Grosso do Sul

Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

Mato Grosso do Sul: Where Untamed Nature Meets Vibrant Culture Escape to Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, a land where adventure awaits amidst a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. Here, the mighty Pantanal, the world's…

#Brazil#Mato Grosso do Sul#Central-West Region#Pantanal Wetlands#Ecotourism
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Mato Grosso do Sul.

Top Hotels in Mato Grosso do Sul

Top Flights to Mato Grosso do Sul

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Mato Grosso do Sul.

Tours

Explore the Pantanal

The Pantanal is the world's largest tropical wetland area and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

Shopping

Shopping in Campo Grande

Enjoy a day at Campo Grande's shopping centers, offering a mix of local crafts and international brands.

Outdoor

Hiking in Serra da Bodoquena

Serra da Bodoquena offers beautiful trails and waterfalls, ideal for adventurous hikers.

Bonito Ecotours

Experience the natural beauty of Bonito with guided ecotours and activities.

Diving in Lagoa Misteriosa

Diving in one of Brazil's most mysterious lagoons, known for its deep blue waters.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Mato Grosso do Sul.

Currency
R$ | BRL | Brazilian Real
Population
2.9 million
Languages
Portuguese, Spanish, German

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Mato Grosso do Sul.

What people love

Mato Grosso do Sul, located in Brazil, offers a range of unique experiences and attractions for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Mato Grosso do Sul include:

  1. Rich Biodiversity: Mato Grosso do Sul is home to diverse ecosystems, including the Pantanal wetlands, one of the world's largest tropical wetland areas. Visitors can explore the region's rich flora and fauna, with opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife such as jaguars, capybaras, and colorful birds.

  2. Adventure Activities: The region offers plenty of outdoor adventure activities for thrill-seekers, including hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, and canoeing in the Pantanal. Visitors can also enjoy eco-tours, safari expeditions, and fishing trips in the area's rivers and lakes.

  3. Cultural Heritage: Mato Grosso do Sul has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of indigenous, European, and Afro-Brazilian influences. Travelers can visit traditional villages, learn about local customs and traditions, and sample authentic Brazilian cuisine.

  4. Scenic Landscapes: The state is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear rivers. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and explore the region's natural beauty through hikes, boat rides, and guided tours.

  5. Sustainable Tourism: Mato Grosso do Sul is committed to sustainable tourism practices, with initiatives in place to protect the environment and support local communities. Travelers can experience responsible tourism and contribute to the preservation of the region's natural resources.

Overall, traveling to Mato Grosso do Sul offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

What to know

Traveling to Mato Grosso do Sul, located in Brazil, may have some potential drawbacks to consider:

  1. Remote Location: Mato Grosso do Sul is a relatively remote region in Brazil, which may result in limited access to certain amenities or services compared to more urban areas. Traveling within the region may also require longer travel times due to the vast distances between attractions.

  2. Language Barrier: While Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, English proficiency may vary in more remote regions like Mato Grosso do Sul. This could potentially pose challenges for English-speaking travelers in terms of communication and navigation.

  3. Health and Safety Precautions: As with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of potential health risks such as mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever or Zika virus, especially in more tropical areas of Mato Grosso do Sul. It's advisable to take necessary precautions such as using insect repellent and staying up-to-date on vaccinations.

  4. Weather Conditions: Mato Grosso do Sul experiences a tropical climate, with hot and humid conditions prevailing throughout much of the year. Travelers should be prepared for high temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall, especially during the wet season from November to March.

  5. Wildlife Encounters: Mato Grosso do Sul is known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife, including various species of snakes, spiders, and other potentially dangerous animals. Travelers should exercise caution when exploring natural areas and take necessary precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife.

It's important to research and plan accordingly before traveling to Mato Grosso do Sul to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Mato Grosso do Sul is a state located in the central-west region of Brazil. Its history is rich and diverse, influenced by indigenous cultures, European colonization, and later, Brazilian expansion and development.

Pre-Colonial and Indigenous History

Before European contact, the region was inhabited by various indigenous groups such as the Guarani, Terena, Kadiwéu, and Kaiowá, among others. These groups lived off the land, practicing agriculture, hunting, and fishing.

Colonial Era and Settlement

  • 16th to 18th Centuries: The first Europeans to explore the region were Spanish expeditions, followed by Portuguese bandeirantes (explorers) who ventured into the interior of Brazil in search of indigenous people to enslave and natural resources. The Treaty of Tordesillas initially gave the land to Spain, but the Portuguese presence grew over time.
  • 1750: The Treaty of Madrid defined the borders between Spanish and Portuguese territories, allowing for more Portuguese influence in the area.

Formation of Mato Grosso

  • 1822: With Brazil's independence, the region became part of the province of Mato Grosso.
  • 19th Century: The region saw gradual settlement by cattle ranchers and explorers. The development was slow due to the remote and rugged terrain.

Separation and Creation of Mato Grosso do Sul

  • 20th Century: The southern part of Mato Grosso experienced significant economic growth, largely due to agriculture and cattle ranching. Discontent grew due to the perceived neglect from the government in Cuiabá, the capital of Mato Grosso.
  • 1977: On October 11, the federal government officially created the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, separating it from the northern part of Mato Grosso. Campo Grande was designated as the capital.

Development and Modern Era

  • 1980s - 1990s: The state experienced significant agricultural development, becoming a major producer of soybeans, corn, and beef. Infrastructure improvements facilitated growth and attracted migrants from other parts of Brazil.
  • Environmental and Indigenous Issues: Mato Grosso do Sul has faced challenges related to environmental conservation, especially in the Pantanal, one of the world's largest tropical wetlands. Additionally, there have been ongoing issues related to indigenous land rights and conflicts over territory.

Significant Figures

  • Domingos Francisco dos Santos (Major Gama): A key figure in the early settlement of the region.
  • Rondon Commission: Headed by Cândido Rondon, this commission explored the region in the early 20th century and established telegraph lines, contributing to the integration of the area into the rest of Brazil.

Important Landmarks and Cultural Sites

  • Pantanal: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this vast wetland is home to diverse wildlife and is a critical ecological area.
  • Bonito: Known for its clear rivers, caves, and waterfalls, it is a popular ecotourism destination.
  • Campo Grande: The capital city, known for its cultural institutions and as a gateway to the Pantanal.

Mato Grosso do Sul continues to play a significant role in Brazil's agricultural economy and is a region of cultural and ecological importance.