Cuiaba Mato Grosso, Brazil Travel Guide
Cuiabá experiences a tropical savanna climate, categorized as Aw, with clear wet and dry periods. This climate brings consistent warmth year-round, but with significant variations in rainfall and humidity.
Dry Season (May to September): High temperatures and very low humidity. Average daily temperatures are generally between 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F). Highs frequently pass 35°C (95°F), especially during August and September. Humidity levels can drop below 30%. The amount of rain is minimal. Skies stay clear and sunny.
Temperatures may pass 40°C (104°F) during the dry season, specifically in September. Cold fronts, locally known as "friagens," can occasionally drop temperatures to around 15°C (59°F) in July or August. These cold fronts offer a brief respite from the usual heat.
Ideal for outdoor activities, but expect crowds.
Best weather for hiking and Pantanal wildlife viewing. Animals gather around diminishing water sources, making them easier to spot. Lower humidity.
Higher prices for accommodations and tours. More crowds at popular sites. Late dry season brings intense heat.
Transition months, good balance.
Fewer crowds, potentially lower prices. Pleasant weather. Lush, green landscapes. Waterfalls in Chapada often full in April and May.
April and May might still see some rain. October brings heavy rains and increasing humidity. Wildlife viewing becomes more challenging as water levels rise.
Peak rainy season, fewer tourists.
Lowest prices for accommodations and tours. Fewer tourists at attractions, peaceful exploration.
Frequent, heavy rain limits outdoor activities. Some unpaved roads, notably in the Pantanal, become impassable. High humidity. Travel delays possible.
Cuiabá does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. Extreme heat warrants attention, notably from August to October. Temperatures often pass 38°C (100°F) during this period. Stay hydrated, seek shade, and wear suitable clothing.
The rainy season (November-April) brings heavy downpours and high humidity. These conditions lead to localized flooding in lower-lying city areas. Unpaved roads, especially those leading into the Pantanal, can become muddy and impassable. Always check local forecasts and road conditions.
Dry season (June to September) for optimal animal spotting.
May to October for comfortable hiking, waterfalls full in early dry season.
Dry season for comfortable walking temperatures and lower humidity.
Early dry season (May-June) for impressive waterfall flow.
Shoulder season (April-May, October) for fewer crowds and potentially better prices.
Brazil maintains a varied visa policy. These requirements vary, so check official sources before your trip.
Citizens of many countries do not need a visa for tourism for a stay of 90 days or less. This list includes most of South America, the European Union, the Uk, Canada, Australia, Japan, and the United States. Always verify the current list on the official Brazilian State department (Itamaraty) website or the nearest Brazilian consulate before your trip. Visa-free entry typically pertains to tourism only.
Citizens of countries not on the visa-waiver list must apply for a tourist visa (VIVIS) before travel. How to apply usually involves completing an online form, gathering needed documents, and submitting them to a Brazilian consulate or embassy in your home country. An interview may occur. Start this process well in advance.
Many travelers enjoy visa-free entry, but it remains essential to confirm your specific nationality's requirements. Overstaying your permitted period could cause legal complications.
Cuiabá has options for various travel styles, from budget-friendly to luxury experiences.
The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL). The symbol is R$. Banknotes come in denominations of R$2, R$5, R$10, R$20, R$50, R$100, and R$200. Coins are available in R$0.01, R$0.05, R$0.10, R$0.25, R$0.50, and R$1.
Exchange houses (Casas de câmbio) and banks offer currency exchange. Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport for immediate needs. Better rates for larger amounts often exist in the city center. ATMs (Caixas Eletrônicos) are widely available, but withdrawal limits can be low.
Estimated daily costs (approx. R$150-R$250 / US$30-US$50).
Accommodation: R$50-R$100 (hostel dorm/basic guesthouse).
Meals: R$50-R$80 (street food, local markets, "prato feito").
Estimated daily costs (approx. R$350-R$700 / US$70-US$140).
Accommodation: R$150-R$300 (mid-range hotel/pousada).
Transportation: R$50-R$100 (taxis, ride-sharing, some guided transfers).
Estimated daily costs (approx. R$1000+ / US$200+).
Accommodation: R$500+ (high-end hotel, resort, luxury Pantanal lodge).
Transportation: R$150+ (private transfers, car rental with driver, internal flights).
| Category | Item/Service | Estimated Price Range (BRL) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodations | Hostel dorm bed | R$50 - R$100 |
| Meals | "Prato Feito" (lunch special) | R$25 - R$50 |
| Transportation | Taxi/Ride-share (short trip) | R$15 - R$40 |
Cuiabá, like any a tourist destination, warrants awareness and preparation regarding health, local safety, and emergency procedures.
Highly suggested, especially for Pantanal/Chapada visits. Vaccine A ten-day period before travel. Carry ICVP.
See a travel physician 4-6 weeks before your trip. Consider Hepatitis A and b, Typhoid, routine updates. Rabies for high-risk activities.
Individual risk assessment based on itinerary and medical history.
Mosquito-borne diseases, heat-related illnesses, and food/waterborne issues.
Mosquito-Borne: Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya are present. Malaria risk low in Cuiabá. Use Insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves/pants.
Heat-Related: Dehydration, heat exhaustion. Make sure you're hydrated with Bottled water. Avoid strenuous activity midday. Wear lightweight clothing and Sun protection.
Food/Waterborne: Traveler's diarrhea. Drink Bottled/filtered water. Eat well-cooked food. Peel fruits.
Private hospitals (Hospital Santa Rosa, Hospital São Matheus, Hospital Amecor) offer higher care standards for insured tourists.
Widely available for over-the-counter and some prescription drugs (Brazilian prescription needed for certain items).
SAMU (Ambulance): 192, Military Police: 190 (first contact information for general emergencies), Emergency Fire services: 193. Language barrier possible; a Translation app can help.
Cuiabá, like many large Brazilian cities, sees higher crime rates. Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occurs. More serious crimes can occur, but tourists face lower risks when alert.
Cuiabá faces specific dangers of the season:
Heavy rainfall during the rainy season (November-April) can cause localized flooding. Traveling by road, especially on unpaved Pantanal roads, can suffer disruption.
The extreme dry season (August-October) brings a significant risk of wildfires, notably in the Pantanal. This can influence air purity and road access.
Intense heat year-round, severe in the dry season. Take precautions against heat-related illness.
