Things To Do
in Aquidauana
Aquidauana is a small riverside city in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul that serves as a gateway to the western Pantanal wetlands. It combines a relaxed town center with working cattle ranches, riverfront scenes and active ecotourism focused on wildlife and fishing. Visitors come for boat safaris, birdwatching, horseback rides and authentic regional food in simple local restaurants.
The town is practical for multi-day excursions into nearby fazendas (ranches) and for trips to Bonito and Campo Grande by road.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, where you can savor traditional Brazilian pão de queijo alongside fresh coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of Aquidauana's past. Make sure to visit the local market, where you can find handcrafted goods and regional produce.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the culture by visiting the Museu de História de Aquidauana, where fascinating exhibits showcase the region's history and indigenous heritage. After the museum, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional specialties like the famous tereré drink. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the tranquil parks, where you can relax in nature and enjoy the scenery.
As the sun sets, head to a charming bistro to experience the local culinary scene, relishing dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverside, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and watching the river flow. Conclude your day with a visit to a local cultural event or live music performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife.
Embark on an early morning wildlife safari in the Pantanal, one of the largest tropical wetlands in the world, where you may spot capybaras, caimans, and a variety of bird species. Guided by experienced local naturalists, you’ll have the chance to learn about the unique ecosystem that thrives in this region. Enjoy a packed breakfast while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty, listening to the sounds of the wildlife awakening.
After a hearty lunch at a lodge, continue your exploration with a boat tour through the winding waterways of the Pantanal, where you can see the diverse flora and fauna up close. Keep your camera ready as you navigate through the serene waters, spotting colorful birds and perhaps even a jaguar lounging on the riverbank. Spend the afternoon fishing or participating in a guided nature walk to learn more about the local biodiversity.
Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner featuring local fish and traditional sides, sharing stories with fellow travelers about the day's adventures. As night falls, gather around a campfire, where you can enjoy stargazing amidst the clear skies of the Pantanal. Listen to the sounds of the night and perhaps spot nocturnal wildlife on a guided night walk.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍺Local beer (bar) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / pousada (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to authentic Pantanal wildlife experiences and boat safaris.
- Relaxed small-town vibe with friendly local hospitality.
- Affordable rural tourism and fresh regional cuisine.
- Limited healthcare and services compared with larger cities; serious cases require transfer.
- Infrastructure can suffer in the rainy season (muddy or impassable roads).
- Less nightlife and cultural variety than urban centers; some services are seasonal.
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you (male / female speaker)
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu não falo português bem" - I don't speak Portuguese well
Places to Visit in Aquidauana
Visit one of these nice places.
Great for sunrise and sunset shots of boats, reflections, fishermen and riverside life.
Excellent opportunities for wildlife photography — caimans, herons, kingfishers and marsh birds in their natural habitat.
Wide-open Pantanal grasslands, grazing cattle, old ranch houses and dramatic skies ideal for wide-angle compositions.
Colorful produce, fish stalls and candid portraits of vendors capture daily life and regional food culture.
Food in Aquidauana
Aquidauana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic grilled meats served at local churrascarias and ranch restaurants — perfect for trying regional cuts. Look for family-run churrascarias and ranch meals (almoço de fazenda).
Must-Try!
Freshwater fish grilled or baked, often served with rice, farinha (manioc flour) and salad; available at riverside restaurants and markets.
A traditional rice-and-meat dish originally eaten by muleteers; hearty and widely available in local restaurants and during festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning markets and occasional street fairs selling fresh fish, fruits, snacks and pastel; try fried fish, pão de queijo and regional juices.
Small stalls by the river or near the central square offering quick grilled meats, salgados (savory pastries) and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake and 'bom dia' / 'boa tarde' are common; use polite language and smile. Use 'senhor'/'senhora' with older people as a sign of respect.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in small communities or indigenous areas; many locals appreciate being asked.
When visiting fazendas follow host instructions, avoid disturbing livestock and remove boots when asked; accept local hospitality with gratitude.
Do not feed wildlife, leave no trace and follow guide rules to protect sensitive Pantanal habitats.
Safety
Tipping in Aquidauana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. At restaurants a small tip (5–10%) is customary if service is good; guides and drivers commonly receive tips for full-day tours. Small amounts of cash for porters and service staff are welcome.
Cash (Brazilian real) is preferred in many small businesses, markets and rural fazendas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most urban restaurants and shops, but connectivity can be inconsistent — carry enough cash for rural excursions and small purchases. ATMs are available in town but may be limited on weekends.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent heavy afternoon storms; wildlife can disperse with high water but birdlife is active. Bring lightweight rain gear, insect repellent and waterproof bags for photography.
Cooler nights and lower water levels make wildlife easier to spot — this is the best time for game viewing, fishing and guided boat trips. Days are pleasant for outdoor activities, but bring sun protection.
Rainfall increases starting in spring; dirt roads may become difficult and some fazendas reduce access. Plan flexible travel and prefer guided tours with experienced operators.
Aquidauana at Night
Hiking in Aquidauana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate walks following riverbanks where you can spot birds, small mammals and scenic river views; best in the dry season.
Many ranches offer guided hikes across pastures, gallery forests and marsh edges — great for learning about local ecology and photographing wildlife.
While a bit farther by road, day trips to Bonito and the Bodoquena highlands offer waterfall trails, limestone caves and clear-water walks that complement a Pantanal visit.
Airports
How to reach Aquidauana by plane.
The largest nearby airport with domestic connections to São Paulo, Brasília and other hubs; approximately 130–160 km by road (about 2–3 hours depending on route) and offers the most frequent flights and rental-car options.
Regional airport serving the Bonito ecotourism area; closer for combined trips to Bonito and some fazendas (drive time roughly 1.5–2.5 hours depending on route). Flight options are smaller and can be seasonal.
Another regional airport on the Pantanal's western side — useful if exploring the far-west Pantanal, but farther away by road (several hours).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents are of mixed heritage and descend from Portuguese settlers, indigenous peoples and migrants; family and ranching ties are strong.
Indigenous groups live in the broader state region (including Terena and other peoples); visitors should be respectful and arrange visits through official channels when appropriate.
Cattle ranchers and rural workers form a significant part of the local economy and culture, preserving traditional skills and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide; local amateur matches and community teams are common.
Ranching culture supports rodeo-style events and horse riding competitions, especially at local festivals and fairs.
Recreational fishing in rivers is popular with locals and visitors, often organized through tour operators or fazendas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aquidauana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with major cities; request salads, rice, beans, grilled vegetables and cheese dishes, and advise restaurants in advance where possible.
Vegan choices can be more challenging; bring snacks, ask for vegetable stews, beans and manioc flour, and speak clearly about avoiding dairy/eggs.
Rice, beans and grilled meats are naturally gluten-free, but watch for bread, farinha and sauces. Communicate allergies in Portuguese and prefer simpler preparations.