Things To Do
in Nobres

Nobres is a small municipality in Mato Grosso, Brazil, renowned for its crystal-clear freshwater lagoons and snorkeling opportunities. The town sits amid savanna and forested countryside, serving as a gateway to Pantanal-adjacent ecosystems. Visitors come to float in turquoise pools, photograph unusual limestone formations, and enjoy a tranquil rural atmosphere.

The area emphasizes sustainable nature tourism and welcoming local communities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Nobres
morning
:

Arrive in Nobres and settle into your chosen accommodation. Spend some time unwinding after your journey and familiarizing yourself with the area. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the days ahead.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll around the town to explore its charming streets and warm hospitality. Visit the local market to immerse yourself in the culture and perhaps pick up some handmade souvenirs. Enjoy a lunch featuring regional specialties like pequi or fish dishes.

evening
:

Head to a nearby restaurant for dinner, where fresh, local fare will tantalize your taste buds. Engage with locals over a caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail. Wind down by soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and planning your adventures for the following day.

day 2
Visit to the Blue Lake
morning
:

After an early breakfast, embark on a guided tour to the stunning Blue Lake (Lagoa Azul). The vibrant blue waters, surrounded by lush vegetation, create a breathtaking scene perfect for photos. Enjoy a quick swim to cool off in the natural pool.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch amidst nature, soaking in the serene environment around Blue Lake. Afterward, participate in guided snorkeling activities to discover the diverse aquatic life and crystal-clear water. Capture memories as you float and relax in this natural wonder.

evening
:

Return to Nobres just in time for dinner, where local seafood awaits. Share stories of the day’s adventures with fellow travelers or locals. Take a stroll through town to experience its evening charm under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee/Tea$1-3
🚌Short taxi or ride share$3-8
🛏️Hostels or budget hotel per night$15-35
🛍️Souvenirs and snacks$2-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to pristine lagoons and wildlife.
  • Small-town feel with friendly locals.
  • Good value for nature-based tourism.
  • Safe and easy base for Pantanal excursions.
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife infrastructure.
  • Seasonal weather can affect water visibility and trails.
  • Rural roads may be rough; planning and guides helpful.
  • Few large-scale dining options.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica a Lagoa Azul?" - Where is Lagoa Azul?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Nobres

Visit one of these nice places.

Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon)

A crystal-clear lagoon famed for vibrant turquoise water and dramatic reflections—perfect for underwater and landscape photography.

Mirante do Serra / Vista do Nobres

Hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic shots of lagoons, forest patches, and the town.

Riverside limestone formations

Sunrise or sunset shots along riverbanks where clear water meets white limestone formations.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nobres

Nobres offers rustic Mato Grosso flavors focused on freshwater fish, cassava, rice, beans, and tropical fruits.

Nobres Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peixe Pantaneiro

Freshwater fish (such as pintado or pacu) grilled or stewed with herbs, typically served with rice and cassava.

Must-Try!

Arroz com Peixe

Rice cooked with pieces of fish and peppers, a simple Pantanal-style dish.

Pacu Frito

Crispy fried pacu or other river fish, often served with manioc flour and salad.

Mandioca Frita

Fried cassava (yuca) with garlic butter, a common side or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Nobres

Small local market selling fresh fish, tropical fruits, manioc flour, and everyday staples.

Tapioca and street stalls

Tapioca crepes with cheese or coconut, a popular quick bite along town streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nobres has a tropical savanna climate with hot days year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season brings cooler nights, while the rainy season brings humidity and daily showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Begin with a friendly hello (Olá) and use ‘Senhor’/’Senhora’ with elders; be polite and patient with service staff.

Photography and Permission

Ask for permission before photographing people, and respect private property and sacred spaces.

Dress and Local Customs

Dress modestly in villages and religious sites; avoid loud behavior late at night in residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise common travel safety practices: stay aware of petty theft in markets, use guides for river trips, wear appropriate footwear on trails, and avoid isolated areas after dark. Carry copies of important documents and have travel insurance for emergencies.

Tipping in Nobres

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash (BRL) and cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; carry some cash for smaller vendors; mobile payments are increasingly available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season

From May to September the weather is cooler and drier; water levels in lagoons drop slightly but visibility improves, making snorkeling and photography easier. Wildlife concentrates around water sources; expect sunny days and comfortable hiking.

Rainy Season

From October to April it is hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; rivers and lagoons can flood some trails; landscapes are lush and wildlife is abundant, but water visibility may vary.

Nightlife Guide

Nobres at Night

Nobres offers a quiet, small-town nightlife with casual bars and social gathering spots; evenings center on sunset viewing and conversation rather than large clubs, with more options in Cuiabá or Pantanal lodges nearby.

Hiking in Nobres

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilhas around Lagoa Azul

Easy interpretive trails near water bodies with opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Forest trails near Nobres

Moderate hikes through tropical forest with chances to see wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Nobres by plane.

Marechal Rondon International Airport (CGB)

Cuiabá–Várzea Grande, main gateway; drive about 2.5–3 hours to Nobres by road.

Sinop Airport (SIN)

Sinop, a longer alternative route for travelers with domestic connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nobres is a small town with a compact center; the core area is walkable, but most attractions are in natural areas outside town and require a vehicle or tour. Sidewalks can be uneven, and shaded paths are common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Mostly Brazilian families and rural communities; small numbers of seasonal workers and visitors.

Tourists

Nature-and-adventure travelers seeking lagoons, wildlife, and tranquil scenery.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futebol (Soccer)

The national pastime; local leagues and informal matches often happen on weekends.

Fishing

Angling in rivers and lagoons is common in the Pantanal-adjacent region.

Horseback Riding

Popular for exploring trails and river edges around Nobres.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light within Nobres; main travel challenges are rural road conditions and occasional heavy rains that affect travel times. If visiting Pantanal-adjacent areas, plan for slower travel and potential detours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nobres.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh fruits, salads, beans, rice, manioc, and tapioca; request grilled vegetables or cheese options and confirm no fish sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are basic health clinics in Nobres; for serious medical care or emergencies, travelers typically go to Cuiabá (Marechal Rondon International Airport area) where larger hospitals and specialists are available.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide