Poconé, Municipality entrance to Pantanal wetlands in Mato Grosso, Brazil
Poconé is a municipality in Mato Grosso located at the entrance to the Pantanal wetlands and serves as the starting point for the Transpantaneira road. This 150-kilometer route extends to Porto Jofre and passes through swampland teeming with wildlife and vegetation.
The settlement emerged following gold discovery in 1771 and was named Beripoconé after local indigenous people. It was granted city status in 1863 and became an important regional center.
The June São Benedito festival showcases the Cavalhada tradition, where riders on horseback perform competitions representing historical battles between Christians and Moors. This celebration remains central to how locals mark their identity and connect with their past through horsemanship and community gathering.
The town is reachable via regular bus services from Cuiabá airport with multiple departures throughout the day. Travelers will find lodging and food options here before heading into the Pantanal region to explore.
Pink Ipê trees bloom in the city streets and led to its nickname as Cidade Rosa, the Pink City. This characteristic stands out to visitors as they arrive at the gateway to the Pantanal region.
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