West Mato Grosso region in Brazil poised for sustainable tourism growth

The western part of Brazil's Mato Grosso state, encompassing municipalities such as Cáceres, Vila Bela da Santíssima Trindade and Jauru, is being promoted as a premier destination for sustainable tourism. The area combines extensive Pantanal wetlands (about 60% of its 28,000 km²), Cerrado savannas and a transition zone to the Amazon, supporting more than 95 mammal species, 660 bird species and a rich array of fish and reptiles.

Key attractions include the Serra Ricardo Franco State Park, which protects 150,000 ha of pristine ecosystems, and the 240‑metre Jatobá Waterfall, the tallest in Mato Grosso. Historical sites such as the colonial ruins of Vila Bela da Santíssima Trindade and the riverside heritage of Cáceres add cultural depth. In 2025 the state recorded over 1.5 million tourists, yet the western region served only about 30% of demand. Projections anticipate a 40% rise in visitor numbers by 2028. Authorities propose a development model that limits visitor numbers, uses low‑impact equipment, promotes local traditions and ensures at least 60% of tourism revenue remains in the community, aiming to balance economic benefits with ecological preservation.