Central West Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Central West, Brazil. Learn about the local culture, food and drink scene, transportation options, and safety information.


Introduction to Central West

Central West is a region located in Brazil, in South America. It is known for its natural beauty and preserved historical sites. The region is composed of three states: Goiás, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul, and it offers a variety of activities for visitors to explore. In this travel guide, we’ll give you a comprehensive tour of Central West, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Central West

Central West is home to many unique and culturally significant attractions. Here’s a list of places that you don’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cidade de Goiás (Goiás City)
  • Chapada dos Guimarães National Park
  • Museum of Sacred Art of Goiás
  • Palace of the Planalto in Brasília
  • The Pantanal Conservation Area in Mato Grosso do Sul
  • Historical Center of Cuiabá

Natural Attractions of Central West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra do Roncador
  • Caverna do Diabo
  • Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
  • Serra da Bodoquena
  • Pantanal National Park
  • Bonito

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central West

For those who love outdoor adventures, Central West is the perfect place to go hiking and cycling. Here are some of our top picks for hiking and biking routes:

  • Morro da Baleia Trail
  • Rota das Cachoeiras in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
  • Circuito das Águas trail in Parque das Águas, Goiás
  • Cristalino Trail in Pantanal Conservation Area
  • Estrada Parque in Chapada dos Guimarães

Best Things to Do in Central West: Activities and Tours

Central West offers visitors a variety of activities and tours that will leave lasting memories. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Horseback riding
  • Rafting
  • Paragliding
  • Hot air balloon rides
  • Visiting local communities and learning about their traditions
  • Wildlife watching

Week-Long Itinerary for Central West

If you’re planning a trip to Central West, consider this week-long itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Visit Goiânia and its museums
Day 2 Explore Cidade de Goiás
Day 3 Experience the natural beauty of Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
Day 4 Visit Palácio do Planalto and other iconic landmarks in Brasília
Day 5 Go wildlife watching in the Pantanal Conservation Area
Day 6 Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bonito
Day 7 End your trip in Cuiabá and its historical center

Food and Drink Scene of Central West

Central West has a rich culinary culture influenced by indigenous and African traditions. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pão de queijo (cheese bread)
  • Pequi fruit
  • Empadão Goiano (layered pie filled with chicken and guariroba)
  • Arroz com pequi (rice with pequi fruit)
  • Coxinhas de jaca (jackfruit coxinhas)

Local Beverages

  • Tereré (tea served cold with herbs)
  • Guaraná natural (natural guaraná soda)
  • Cachaça (Brazilian distilled spirit)

Where to Stay in Central West: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central West offers a range of accommodations, from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Gran Odara in Cuiabá
  • Plaza Inn Breeze Aeroporto in Goiânia
  • Pousada Rio Paraguai in Pantanal
  • Hostel Smart in Brasília

What to Buy in Central West: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Central West? Here are some items to consider:

  • Handcrafted pottery from Cidade de Goiás
  • Jewelry made with natural stones from Chapada dos Veadeiros
  • Indigenous art from the Xingu Indigenous Park
  • Cuiabá’s famous candy called “doce de laranja” (orange sweet)

Local Culture and Customs of Central West

Central West’s culture is heavily influenced by its indigenous heritage. Be sure to respect their culture and customs by learning about their traditions and dressing modestly when visiting their communities.

Best Time to Visit Central West

The best time to visit Central West is during the dry season (May to September), when the weather is mild and there are fewer mosquitoes. However, keep in mind that it can be very hot between June and August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central West

Do:

  • Try some of the local cuisine and beverages
  • Respect the culture and customs of the local communities
  • Bring sun protection when going on outdoor adventures

Don’t:

  • Touch or feed wild animals
  • Disrespect the environment by littering or damaging natural sites
  • Ignore safety information when going on outdoor adventures

Safety and Health

Safety in Central West

Although Central West is generally safe, it is still important to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be cautious in urban areas and avoid walking alone at night
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place and be aware of pickpockets
  • Only book tours and activities with reputable companies

Health in Central West

It’s essential to protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases when traveling to Central West. Here are some tips:

  • Use mosquito repellent with DEET and long-sleeved clothing to avoid mosquito bites
  • Stay hydrated and drink bottled or purified water
  • Consult your doctor before traveling and make sure your vaccinations are up to date

Getting to Central West: Transportation Options and Logistics

Central West is accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Central West

  • Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport in Brasília
  • Santa Genoveva Airport in Goiânia
  • Marechal Rondon International Airport in Cuiabá

Bus Stations Near Central West

  • Bus Station of Brasília
  • Bus Station of Goiânia
  • Bus Station of Cuiabá

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, Central West has well-maintained highways that connect the major cities in the region.

How to Get Around in Central West

To get around in Central West, you can use public transportation, rent a car, or book a tour with a local operator.

Where to Go Next from Central West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Central West, why not check out some nearby destinations? Here are some suggestions:

  • The Amazon rainforest
  • The beaches of Northeast Brazil
  • The cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro

Conclusion

Central West is a region full of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan your trip to Central West, Brazil.

Maytrea Garden, in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park Maytrea Garden, in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park Snorkeling in the clear waters near Bonito (Mato Grosso do Sul) Snorkeling in the clear waters near Bonito (Mato Grosso do Sul) Véu de Noiva Falls in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park Véu de Noiva Falls in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park


    Goiás
    Mato Grosso
    Mato Grosso do Sul