Things To Do
in Coxim
Coxim is a river town in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, perched along the Taquari River and serving as a gateway to the Pantanal wetlands. The town blends riverine culture with ranching heritage and warm, welcoming hospitality. It experiences a tropical climate with a pronounced wet season and a dry season, shaping daily life around the river and markets.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, abundant wildlife along the water, and opportunities to experience authentic Pantanal experiences away from the larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the bustling river port as fishermen bring in their early catch. Wander along the boardwalk, breathing in the fresh Pantanal air. Watch the sun rise over the Rio Coxim, casting golden light on traditional boats.
Visit the local fish market to sample piping hot pacu fritters served by friendly vendors. Stroll through the central plaza while locals share stories of river life. Find a shady spot under the large açaí trees and people-watch as families gather for lunch.
Dine at a riverside bistro where the catch of the day is grilled to perfection. Listen to live sertanejo music drifting across the water. End the night with a moonlit walk, hearing the gentle lapping of the river.
At dawn, board a small vessel for a guided boat trip along calm waterways teeming with caimans and capybaras. The rising mist reveals herons stalking the shallows and otters playing near riverbanks. Your guide will share knowledge about edible plants and animal calls that echo through the marshes.
Disembark for a jeep ride into the heart of the Pantanal where jaguar tracks may be spotted on muddy trails. Stop by a natural salt lick where tapirs and deer congregate under shady canopy. Capture panoramic photos of sprawling savannahs before returning to the lodge.
Gather around a rustic fire pit as the sky darkens and thousands of stars emerge above the wetland. Share dinner with fellow travelers, feasting on locally prepared fare like carne de sol. Listen for the distant calls of howler monkeys and night birds echoing in the darkness.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️Hotel nightly rate (budget) | $25-60 |
| 🎟️Museum or park entry | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Pantanal wildlife and scenic river landscapes
- Friendly locals and relaxed, safe feel
- Generally affordable compared to larger Brazilian hubs
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Transit to major airports can be time-consuming
- Seasonal river levels can affect boat routes and access
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Coxim
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over the river with silhouettes of boats and rippling water.
Bridge vantage point offering wide landscape views and reflections on calm water.
Colorful storefronts and colonial-inspired façades provide charming street photography opportunities.
Riverside trails ideal for early morning or golden hour photography with water wildlife in the background.
Food in Coxim
Coxim Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled pacú, a freshwater fish common to Pantanal rivers, seasoned simply to let the fish’s flavor shine.
Must-Try!
Whole fish roasted over coals with herbs and lime, served with rice and cassava.
Crispy fried cassava served with local queijo do país or cheese for a comforting snack or side.
Corn-based sweet or savory steamed treats enjoyed at markets and fairs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offering fresh river fish, cassava, fruits, and regional snacks; great for sampling everyday flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a polite handshake and greet with 'bom dia', 'boa tarde' or 'boa noite' depending on the time of day.
Casual, comfortable clothing in town; modest dress when visiting more traditional areas or religious sites.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals or families; be respectful of local privacy.
Safety
Tipping in Coxim
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip around 10-15% in restaurants; small tips for tour guides and drivers are appreciated.
Cash (BRL) is widely accepted in town; many places also take cards, though some remote spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sun protection, and a lightweight rain shell.
Dry season with pleasant mornings and warm afternoons; great for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing near river edges.
Milder days and cooler nights; largely dry and comfortable for exploring; bring a light jacket for evenings.
Warm to hot with rising humidity and active fauna; ideal for photography and boat trips.
Coxim at Night
Hiking in Coxim
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails along the border of the Pantanal wetlands, offering wildlife viewing and easy to moderate hikes.
Easy to moderate hikes with water views and birdlife along the riverbank.
Airports
How to reach Coxim by plane.
Major gateway with domestic and some international flights; from here you can drive or take a bus to Coxim.
Another major gateway to central-west Brazil; longer drive to Coxim but good flight options.
Regional airport serving northern Pantanal areas; more limited connections but closer to some Pantanal routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People living in Coxim’s city center and nearby neighborhoods.
Farmers and riverine families in the surrounding countryside.
Residents with traditional ties to the Pantanal and its ecosystems.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in town and on weekends.
Angling and sport fishing in rivers and wetlands are a key activity for both locals and visitors.
Traditionally tied to ranch life; a great way to explore rural trails and river edges.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coxim.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on rice, beans, mandioca, salads, fruits, and vegetable-based dishes; ask for vegetables cooked with minimal oil and confirm no fish stock in sauces.