Things To Do
in Poconé
Poconé is a small riverside town in Mato Grosso, Brazil, serving as the gateway to the Pantanal wetlands. Nestled along the Cuiabá River, it acts as a launchpad for wildlife safaris and immersive river life. The town offers a laid-back pace, colorful markets, and friendly locals who welcome visitors exploring the Pantanal.
Visitors come here to experience a true Pantanal base with easy access to wildlife-rich floodplains and rustic river culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a guided tour into the Pantanal wetlands, one of the world's most diverse ecosystems. Observe the vibrant wildlife, including capybaras and caimans, while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes. Engaging with local guides will enrich your understanding of the flora and fauna that make this region unique.
After lunch, visit a local farm to learn about traditional cattle ranching and how it coexists with the natural habitat of the Pantanal. Participate in activities like horseback riding or a canoe trip through the waterways, immersing yourself in the serene environment. Capture stunning photos of the landscape as you venture deeper into this natural wonder.
As the sun sets over the wetlands, enjoy a traditional Brazilian barbecue at a local restaurant. Connect with fellow travelers and share stories about your day's adventures while savoring delicious local cuisine. The night sky in the Pantanal offers a stunning backdrop - perfect for stargazing or simply relaxing under the stars.
Kick off your day with a visit to the town of Poconé, exploring its charming streets and local markets. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a quaint café, taste local pastries, and mingle with residents. This morning is all about experiencing the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.
Engage in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes like 'pacu assado' (grilled pacu fish). Having fun and learning about local ingredients will give you insight into Brazilian culinary practices. Savor the dishes you've created as lunch.
Spend the evening at a local cultural center, where you can enjoy traditional music and dance performances. Participate in workshops to learn about local crafts or folklore tales that have been passed down through generations. End the night reflecting on the rich cultural heritage that thrives in Poconé.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | USD 10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | USD 2-3 |
| 🧃Street snack or fresh juice | USD 1-3 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | USD 3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | USD 40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Pantanal with easy wildlife access
- Friendly locals and authentic river town experience
- Affordable lodging and food
- Limited public transport and infrastructure
- Seasonal flooding can affect access
- Smaller medical facilities in town
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Poconé
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light along the Cuiabá River with mist over the water and silhouettes of boats; ideal for serene wide-angle shots.
Colorful market stalls, colonial-style buildings, and locals going about daily life; great for candid street photography and architecture.
Open floodplain vistas where wildlife activity can be captured at dawn or dusk, with expansive skies and reflective waters.
Food in Poconé
Poconé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pintado (a common Pantanal fish) cooked with garlic and herbs, typically served with rice, cassava flour porridge (farinha), and salad.
Must-Try!
Grilled arapaima (pirarucu) paired with pirão, a thick cassava flour porridge that soaks up flavorful fish sauce.
Fish stew thickened with farinha de mandioca, a comforting staple often found in markets and small eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Primary market for fresh fruit, fish, cassava products, and everyday staples; great for observing local life and tasting street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hola or bom dia with a handshake is typical; a light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends. Always greet before starting a conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or community spaces; keep voices respectful in public and while traveling with guides; avoid loud conduct in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Poconé
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tips are appreciated but not always included in the bill. If service is good and not included, 5–10% is customary. In markets and casual spots, rounding up is common.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; credit/debit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels, but some remote vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon downpours; landscape becomes lush and wildlife activity increases, but some roads can be muddy and certain Pantanal access may be limited.
Warm to hot days with cooler nights; wildlife concentrates near water sources, making spotting easier, though some paths may be dusty and water levels are lower.
Poconé at Night
Hiking in Poconé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy 1–2 hour stroll along the river edge during the dry season; optimal for sunrise photography and wildlife viewing.
Moderate hikes through savanna and gallery forests with opportunities to spot birds and small mammals.
Airports
How to reach Poconé by plane.
Marechal Rondon International Airport; the main gateway to the Pantanal, typically a 2–3 hour drive from Pocone depending on road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People living along the Cuiabá River with strong ties to Pantanal traditions and livelihoods.
A significant part of Pocone’s economy, shaping local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and casual play occur in town squares and fields.
A traditional pastime in the Pantanal region, with guided river trips offered to visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poconé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options in Pocone are more limited than in larger cities; look for rice, feijão (beans), farofa, salads, and mandioca-based dishes. When in doubt, request a starch-and-vegetable plate or ask for a cheese or egg addition. If you need more variety, consider traveling to Cuiabá for a broader vegetarian-friendly menu.