Things To Do
in Diamantino
Diamantino is a small, rural city in Mato Grosso set amid the Cerrado and river channels that feed the Pantanal. It acts as a gateway to wildlife-rich wetlands while maintaining a down-to-earth, agrarian charm. The town centers on markets, friendly locals, and easy access to open landscapes perfect for riverside strolls and sunset views.
Visitors can expect a warm, unhurried pace with opportunities to spot wildlife and explore nearby rivers and savanna trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh fruits and traditional Brazilian coffee. Afterward, take a guided walking tour through the Historic Center, where you'll marvel at the colonial architecture and learn about the rich history of Diamantino. Don't forget to visit the historic church of Nossa Senhora da Guia, which showcases stunning Baroque architecture.
In the afternoon, enjoy lunch at a charming restaurant that serves regional dishes, such as 'peixe na telha' (fish on a tile). After lunch, visit the local artisan shops to discover handcrafted souvenirs and intricate lacework unique to the region. Conclude your afternoon by wandering through the beautiful Praça Dom Pedro II, where you can relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, sampling more traditional Brazilian cuisine while enjoying live music. After your meal, explore the nightlife options in the city, such as bars that feature regional bands playing for a lively crowd. End your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the town.
Begin your day with an energizing breakfast before embarking on a guided tour to Rio da Casca. Enjoy a scenic drive through the lush landscapes, and upon arrival, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the river. The morning is perfect for birdwatching, as you can spot various species that inhabit the area.
After a picnic lunch by the riverbank, partake in activities like canoeing or paddleboarding on the calm waters, immersing yourself in the natural beauty surrounding you. The afternoon is an excellent opportunity for a short hike along the river trails, where you can admire stunning views and the diverse flora. Capture the moment with photographs of the breathtaking landscapes.
Return to Diamantino in the evening and enjoy dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can try a Brazilian twist on traditional pizza. After your meal, visit a nearby park for a quiet walk and reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying the calm evening air. As the night unfolds, consider stopping by a local café for dessert and a nightcap.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚗Taxi start (within town) | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming local culture
- Gateway to Pantanal wildlife and cerrado landscapes
- Low costs and simple, flavorful cuisine
- Relaxed pace and fewer crowds than major cities
- Limited nightlife and English-speaking services in rural areas
- Far from large international hubs, requiring longer overland travel
- Seasonal flooding can affect accessibility to some areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Quero um prato vegetariano" - I would like a vegetarian dish
Places to Visit in Diamantino
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, reflective waters with silhouettes of distant trees; best during golden hour when light is soft and wildlife activity increases.
Open grasslands with scattered trees; expansive skies and dramatic silhouettes during dawn and dusk.
Historic church with simple architectural lines and surrounding squares ideal for street photography and portrait shots.
Colorful stalls and everyday life scenes that showcase regional textures, fabrics, and foods.
Food in Diamantino
Diamantino Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal porridge served with fresh river fish; a comforting staple often enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and sautéed greens.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with pieces of fish and seasonings; a common lunch dish near riverside communities.
Grilled fish, typically river-caught, seasoned simply and served with cassava or rice.
Crispy fried cassava, a popular side dish that pairs well with fish or beef dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, cassava-based snacks, and informal street-food stalls at peak hours.
Occasional open-air markets with seasonal fruits, grilled fish, fried snacks, and locally made breads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and a warm greeting are common. Address adults as Senhor/Senhora and use polite language in initial conversations.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural settings or with children; people are generally respectful and welcoming when approached politely.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural communities; comfortable clothing suitable for hot weather is standard in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Diamantino
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a 10% service charge may be added in larger places; otherwise a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. In casual settings, rounding up the bill is common.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards, especially in towns. Smaller vendors and markets may prefer cash; carry small notes for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon rain; carry water, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days with cooler evenings; wildlife-spotting can be particularly rewarding as water levels begin to change.
Warm days and cooler nights; still dry-to-moderate humidity; great for long walks and outdoor photography with fewer rain interruptions.
Increasing vegetation and animal activity; pleasant temperatures and active birdlife along the river and cerrado trails.
Diamantino at Night
Hiking in Diamantino
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal hiking along river banks and open wetlands; best in the dry season when trails are more passable.
Gentle hikes through open woodlands with chances to spot birds and small wildlife; bring water and sun protection.
Airports
How to reach Diamantino by plane.
Main gateway to central Mato Grosso; connections to major Brazilian cities; typically a several-hour road transfer to Diamantino.
Regional hub in northern Mato Grosso; transfer via Cuiabá or other connections for longer trips.
Nearby regional airport with limited flights; useful for short hops within Mato Grosso when available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
City dwellers in the center who work in commerce, markets, and agriculture-related services.
Agriculturalists and fishers along the rivers; communities with strong Pantanal and Cerrado influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region; local leagues, informal games, and school teams are common.
A popular pastime in schools and community centers, especially during the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Diamantino.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on cassava, rice, beans, seasonal vegetables, and fruit; seek out quentes and saladas at markets or request vegetable-focused dishes at restaurants. Many places can adjust dishes to omit meat or fish when requested.