Things To Do
in Cáceres
Cáceres is a riverside town in Mato Grosso, Brazil, perched on the Paraguai River near the Pantanal. It blends frontier history with colonial architecture and a strong fishing culture. As the gateway to the Pantanal, it's a base for wildlife adventures, boat trips, and riverfront sunsets.
The town feels relaxed and welcoming, with markets, churrascarias, and weekly festivals that reveal local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pão de queijo and strong Brazilian coffee. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Cáceres' historic center, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell stories of the city’s past. Don't miss a visit to the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, where the intricate details of the Baroque style will leave you in awe.
Savor a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes like peixe na telha (fish baked on a tile) and feijão tropeiro (tropeiro beans). Post-lunch, visit the Museu do Pantanal to learn about the unique ecosystem and culture of the Pantanal region, with exhibits that include local wildlife and indigenous history. As the afternoon light begins to soften, take a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and local stories.
As the sun sets, choose a cozy spot at a rooftop bar to enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping on a caipirinha. For dinner, indulge in a delicious meal at a local churrascaria, where you can taste an array of expertly grilled meats. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Rio Cuiabá, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the twinkling lights of the city.
Rise early for an exhilarating day trip to the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland. After a hearty breakfast, board a 4x4 vehicle and head out into the vast landscapes, where you might spot capybaras, caimans, and countless bird species. Keep your camera ready as you traverse through lush vegetation and open fields teeming with wildlife.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the heart of the Pantanal, surrounded by the sounds of nature as you watch for birds soaring overhead. Continue your adventure with a guided boat tour, where you can glide through the waterways and get up close to the diverse fauna, including the majestic jaguar if you're lucky. The afternoon sun creates a magical backdrop, enhancing your wildlife viewing experience.
Return to Cáceres as the day winds down, reflecting on the incredible sights you’ve witnessed. Treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Pantanal cuisine, featuring fish and game dishes. Share stories of your adventure with fellow travelers as you enjoy the warm hospitality of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚖Taxi short ride | $3-8 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Pantanal with abundant wildlife nearby
- Relaxed pace, friendly locals, and affordable travel costs
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in certain areas
- Longer travel times from major capitals and fewer direct international connections
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o Pantanal?" - Where is the Pantanal?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu gostaria de reservar uma mesa" - I would like to reserve a table
- "Você aceita cartão de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "Fale mais devagar, por favor" - Please speak more slowly
Places to Visit in Cáceres
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively historic square framed by colonial buildings and colorful market stalls, perfect for street photography and sunset portraits.
A striking church with classic architecture; capture its façade and interior details during morning light.
An old bridge offering great river views, especially at golden hour when the water reflects the sky.
Riverside vantage point ideal for long exposure shots of boats and wildlife along the water’s edge.
Food in Cáceres
Cáceres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pintado fish simmered in an herb sauce, served with pirão (a thick, cassava-based sauce).
Must-Try!
Crispy tambaqui fish served with toasted manioc flour farofa and lime wedges.
Comforting fish soup with local vegetables and cassava, perfect for cooler evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample fresh fish, regional produce, and snacks from local vendors.
Try pastel, pão de queijo, tapioca, and fresh fruit smoothies along the riverside lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; a warm, friendly tone is appreciated in conversations.
Casual, comfortable clothing is typical; modest dress is fine for day visits to churches and markets.
Use the right hand for eating and giving; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Tipping is seen as a courtesy; leave a small amount if service wasn’t included.
Safety
Tipping in Cáceres
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always required. If service charge isn’t included, a 5-10% tip is common in restaurants and bars.
Cash (BRL) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Pix is increasingly common for quick payments, especially in markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent rainstorms. Carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent; afternoons can be intense, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasantly warm days with cooling nights. Shoulder-season crowds and a great time for outdoor exploring.
Milder daytime temperatures and clearer skies; nights can be chilly by the river. Ideal for walking tours and photography.
Warm weather returning with more humidity; good conditions for wildlife viewing and river activities.
Cáceres at Night
Hiking in Cáceres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, scenic hike along the riverbank with chances to spot birds and waterfowl.
Moderate trails through cerrado landscapes with seasonal wildflowers and wildlife.
Guided treks near wetlands offering opportunities to see caimans, capybaras, and wading birds.
Airports
How to reach Cáceres by plane.
Main gateway to the region with connections to major Brazilian cities and some international links.
Small domestic and charter flights serving the local area; verify schedules and availability in advance.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Indigenous heritage and Brazilian/Cafeteria-era influences, with strong community ties.
Tourism-driven workforce adds to the town’s diversity and skill set.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; local matches and informal games are common in parks and schools.
A cornerstone activity due to Pantanal proximity; popular among locals and visitors alike.
Popular in community centers and beach-style riverfront areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cáceres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes are fish- or meat-centric, so look for rice and bean dishes, cassava-based sides, egg dishes, cheese plates, and fresh salads. When dining out, ask for ‘sem carne’ (no meat) or ‘sem peixe’ (no fish) and request legumes or extra vegetables as substitutes.