Pantanal Matogrossense National Park

Pantanal Matogrossense National Park is a protected wetland in Mato Grosso that spreads across a vast area with rivers, marshes, forests, and open grasslands. The Cuiabá River runs through these varied landscapes, creating a mosaic of water and land habitats.

The park was established in 1981 to protect South America's largest tropical wetland and its biodiversity. This action reflected Brazil's commitment to safeguarding critical natural areas through legal designation.

The park draws bird watchers and nature lovers who come to experience the wetland's seasonal patterns and rhythms. Visitors here witness how wildlife and water systems are deeply connected, with each season bringing different wildlife to the forested areas and open water.

Visitors typically reach the area by traveling south through Poconé, with the best viewing opportunities between May and September. During this period, lower water levels concentrate wildlife in specific locations, making them easier to observe.

The area shelters a remarkable array of wildlife, including hundreds of bird species distributed across different ecosystems within the park. These populations shift seasonally based on water levels, making each visit distinct.

Location: Mato Grosso

Inception: 1981

Operator: Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade

Website: http://icmbio.gov.br/portal/visitacao1/unidades-abertas-a-visitacao/195-parque-nacional-do-pantanal-matogrossense

GPS coordinates: -17.71667,-57.36667

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03