Mato Grosso do Sul is a state located in the central-western region of Brazil, known for its diverse wildlife, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage. The state offers various tourism opportunities, attracting visitors from all over the world.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Mato Grosso do Sul is the Pantanal, the largest wetland area in the world. It is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, home to over 600 species of birds, 120 species of mammals, and numerous reptiles and fish. Visitors can enjoy activities such as wildlife watching, sport fishing, and horseback riding.
Another major attraction in Mato Grosso do Sul is the Bonito region, known for its crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and caves. The region is popular for ecotourism activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and birdwatching. Some of the most famous attractions in Bonito include the Rio da Prata, the Blue Lake Cave, and the Buraco das Araras.
At the heart of South America, the state of Mato Grosso do Sul reveals a deep, authentic, and surprising side of Brazil. A land of encounters—between biomes, cultures, and flavors—the destination invites travelers to experience a journey that connects nature, identity, and way of life.
From the crystal-clear rivers of Serra da Bodoquena to the vast flooded plains of the Pantanal, and cities that preserve traditions and warm hospitality, the state offers a territory where every trip becomes a discovery.
Internationally recognized for ecotourism and wildlife, it is home to iconic destinations such as Pantanal and Bonito, global references in nature conservation and outdoor experiences.
In Mato Grosso do Sul, travel experiences emerge from real life. The rhythm of Pantanal ranches, wildlife observation expeditions, horseback rides at sunset, and close contact with local communities reveal the essence of the land and its people. The culture of the Pantanal cowboy—shaped by a life intertwined with nature’s cycles—reflects a way of living rooted in simplicity, hospitality, and deep respect for the land.
Few places in the world bring together such extraordinary natural diversity. The state is home to two of South America’s most remarkable landscapes: the Pantanal, one of the largest tropical wetlands on Earth and a sanctuary for wildlife, and Bonito, famous for its crystal-clear rivers, monumental caves, and world-class floating experiences. Hiking trails, birdwatching, photographic safaris, and cave diving reveal a destination where nature and conservation go hand in hand.
The cuisine of Mato Grosso do Sul is a direct reflection of its territory. Freshwater fish such as pacu, pintado, and dourado, traditional dishes like caldo de piranha, sopa paraguaia, and macarrão de comitiva, and the ritual of sharing tereré form a culinary tradition rich in identity. Influenced by border cultures and ingredients from the Cerrado and Pantanal, local cuisine transforms simple ingredients into memorable experiences, revealing flavors that tell the story of the region.
The cultural identity of Mato Grosso do Sul is shaped by encounters between traditions, peoples, and borders. Indigenous heritage blends with Paraguayan and Bolivian influences, as well as the contributions of migrants from different regions of Brazil. This diversity is expressed in handicrafts, regional music, local festivals, and the daily life of communities. From the sound of the Pantanal guitar to traditions rooted in the land, culture here reflects a deep connection between people, history, and nature.
Deep in Brazil’s Pantanal — the world’s largest tropical wetland — nature and music meet in a one-of-a-kind collaboration.
Global musicians improvise with birdsong, wind, jaguars, and rivers. The result? A breathtaking soundscape of jazz, ecology, and purpose.
Pantanal JAM is an original music and documentary project where nature is not the backdrop — it’s the composer.
Cicadas. Rain. Howler monkeys. Jaguar roars. These real-life sounds of the Pantanal were captured live and became the foundation of a contemporary jazz album recorded on site.
TOURISM FOUNDATION OF MATO GROSSO DO SUL – FUNDTUR
To promote the responsible development of tourism activities in the state through the implementation of effective public policies and integrated management, positioning tourism as one of the main economic sectors of Mato Grosso do Sul.
To find out more: https://en.visitms.com.br/
Get in touch with GVA, the official representative of Mato Grosso do Sul tourism for the North American market:
Name: Anna Cecilia Santos
