whatdo

Things To Do
in Várzea Grande

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Várzea Grande is a city located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, near the capital city of Cuiabá. It is known for its vibrant culture, with a mix of indigenous, African, and European influences. The city is also a commercial and industrial hub, with a growing economy driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and services sectors.

Várzea Grande offers visitors a range of attractions, including parks, museums, and cultural events that showcase the region's rich heritage.

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3-day Pantanal Wildlife Tour with accommodation- Departing from Cuiaba

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8 Days Jaguars and Pantanal Safari tour

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Private Multiday Tour to Panatal with Pickups

  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Vrzea Grande
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parque Nacional de Chapada dos Guimarães, just a short drive away. Enjoy the lush landscapes and unique rock formations that the park has to offer.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the local markets to experience the culture and traditions of Várzea Grande. Sample regional delicacies and shop for handcrafted souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, relax by the Rio Cuiabá and enjoy the beautiful views. Grab dinner at a recommended local restaurant that serves traditional Brazilian cuisine.

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6-Days North Pantanal Experience - Following the footsteps of the Jaguar

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6 Days Pantanal and Jaguar Safari departing from Cuiaba

day 2
Nature Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a guided hike in the nearby Pantanal region. Witness exotic wildlife and diverse ecosystems in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature and continue exploring remarkable landscapes. Visit a local eco-tourism spot to learn about conservation efforts.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a night safari experience, spotting nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. Have dinner at a charming lodge, enjoying local flavors.

Várzea Grande Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strategically located near the city of Cuiabá, providing access to urban amenities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local festivals that attract tourism.
  • Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and commerce.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings, including rivers and parks.
  • Diverse communities contributing to a vibrant social landscape.
  • Issues with infrastructure development and public transport.
  • High levels of crime in certain areas, leading to safety concerns.
  • Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
  • Environmental challenges, including deforestation and pollution.
  • Potential for flooding during rainy seasons due to geographical location.

Best Activities in Várzea Grande

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Pantanal Safari

Explore the beautiful Pantanal wetlands with a safari tour to see diverse wildlife and natural landscapes.

River Cruises

Enjoy a leisurely river cruise along the Paraguay River, offering stunning views and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Hiking in Chapada dos Guimarães National Park

Embark on hiking trails in the national park to witness breathtaking waterfalls, cliffs, and unique rock formations.

Birdwatching

Várzea Grande and its surroundings provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with numerous species to observe in their natural habitat.

Places to Visit in Várzea Grande

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirante Mãe Bonifácia

A natural park with beautiful trails and viewpoints offering panoramic views of Várzea Grande and Cuiabá.

Parque Bernardo Berneck

A park with recreational areas and scenic spots ideal for photography, especially during sunset.

Rio Cuiabá

The river offers picturesque views and opportunities for capturing the natural beauty of Várzea Grande.

Food in Várzea Grande

Várzea Grande, located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, offers a rich culinary experience influenced by indigenous, Portuguese, and African flavors. The cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes featuring fresh ingredients from the region's diverse ecosystem.

Várzea Grande Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Vatapá

A savory stew made with bread, shrimp, coconut milk, finely ground peanuts, palm oil, and various spices. It can be found at traditional restaurants like Cantina do Lucas.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A fragrant fish stew made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander, cooked in coconut milk and palm oil. One of the best places to savor this dish is at Restaurante Família Moraes.

Pacu Assado

A popular dish featuring grilled pacu fish, often served with rice, beans, and farofa. Look for it at Churrascaria Boi Branco for an authentic taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Porto

This traditional market offers a plethora of street food options like acarajé, a deep-fried black-eyed pea fritter filled with spicy shrimp and traditional condiments.

Feira Central de Cuiabá

Located nearby, this bustling market features numerous stalls selling local street food specialties such as espetinho (skewered grilled meat), pastel (crispy stuffed pastries), and freshly squeezed fruit juices.

Weather

The climate is characterized as tropical, featuring a distinct wet and dry season. Temperatures are generally warm throughout the year, with average highs ranging from around 27°C to 34°C (81°F to 93°F). The wet season typically occurs from October to March, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity, while the dry season spans from April to September, during which precipitation significantly decreases. The region experiences significant humidity levels, especially during the wet months, contributing to a feeling of mugginess. Thunderstorms are common during the peak of the wet season. Overall, the climatic conditions foster a rich biodiversity and influence local agriculture, with crops like soybeans and corn being prominent in the surrounding areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Handshake

In Várzea Grande, Brazil, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time or when entering a room or gathering.

Respecting Personal Space

It is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others when engaging in conversation. Respect for personal space is a common cultural norm in Várzea Grande.

Politeness and Respect

Showing politeness and respect towards others, especially elders, is highly valued in Brazilian culture. Using polite phrases and gestures demonstrates good manners and is appreciated.

Safety

Safety in cities across Brazil can vary significantly, and Várzea Grande, being part of the Mato Grosso state and adjacent to the capital Cuiabá, reflects some of these patterns. Like many urban areas, it experiences challenges related to crime, including petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing, as well as more serious offenses. Local law enforcement agencies are active, but the effectiveness of policing can fluctuate. Community programs and initiatives aimed at crime prevention play a role in improving safety. Residents often emphasize the importance of vigilance and being aware of one's surroundings, especially in busier or less familiar areas. Socioeconomic factors also influence safety in the region. Areas with higher economic disparities may report higher levels of crime. Nonetheless, many locals and visitors engage in their daily activities without serious incidents. It's advisable for anyone traveling to or living in Várzea Grande to stay informed about the specific neighborhoods and to follow general safety practices, such as avoiding displaying valuables in public and being cautious after dark. Overall, while there are safety concerns, many people continue to enjoy life in Várzea Grande while taking the necessary precautions.

Tipping in Várzea Grande

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Várzea Grande, Brazil, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. A common practice is to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff may not be as common, but is always a kind gesture.

Payment

Payment in Várzea Grande, Brazil is primarily done in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in most establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for small transactions and in case some places do not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (May to September)

Best time to visit Várzea Grande, with lower humidity and less rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.

Rainy season (October to April)

Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity during this period. Suitable for those interested in birdwatching and lush green landscapes, but outdoor activities may be limited.

Várzea Grande at Night

At night, the atmosphere in Várzea Grande buzzes with a blend of local culture and modern entertainment. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy a variety of options that showcase the city's vibrant life after dark. There are numerous lively bars and clubs where live music, ranging from traditional Brazilian rhythms to contemporary hits, fills the air. For those who prefer a more relaxed evening, there are several quaint restaurants offering delicious local cuisine, perfect for an intimate dinner or casual get-together. The street food scene is also a highlight, with vendors serving up mouthwatering snacks such as pão de queijo (cheese bread) and pastéis (savory pastries). In addition, occasional cultural events and festivals bring an extra layer of excitement, often featuring live performances and dance. Whether you're looking to dance the night away, savor delicious food, or simply enjoy the company of friends, the nightlife in Várzea Grande offers something for everyone.

Hiking in Várzea Grande

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães

A stunning national park known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, located about 70 km from Várzea Grande. The park offers several hiking trails with breathtaking scenery.

Caminho dos Antigos

An enchanting hiking trail that takes you through historical sites and natural beauty, approximately 50 km from Várzea Grande. This trail is perfect for those looking to explore both nature and culture.

Serra do Roncador

A mountain range renowned for its unique rock formations and spiritual significance, about 200 km from Várzea Grande. The hiking trails here provide panoramic views and a connection to nature.

Parque da Cidade

A local park in Várzea Grande that features walking and hiking paths, making it accessible for a quick nature escape without traveling far.

Estrada Parque Transpantaneira

While primarily a road through the Pantanal, several areas along this route offer opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching, with stunning wetlands views, about 150 km from Várzea Grande.

Aiports

How to reach Várzea Grande by plane.

Marechal Rondon International Airport (CGB)

The main airport serving Várzea Grande and the surrounding area, located approximately 10 km from the city center.

Cuiabá International Airport (CGB)

Another name for Marechal Rondon International Airport, it serves domestic and a few international flights, providing connectivity to various destinations.

Presidente Itamar Franco International Airport (IZA)

Located about 300 km from Várzea Grande, this airport serves the city of Juiz de Fora and offers domestic and some international flights.

Confins International Airport (CNF)

Located around 600 km from Várzea Grande, this airport near Belo Horizonte offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Viracopos International Airport (VCP)

Located around 1,000 km from Várzea Grande in Campinas, this airport is one of the busiest in Brazil for domestic and international travel.

Walkability

Walkability in Várzea Grande can be characterized by a mix of urban infrastructure, local amenities, and street designs that contribute to pedestrian accessibility. Generally, the presence of sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly pathways influence how easily residents can navigate the city on foot. In many areas, the availability of essential services such as grocery stores, schools, parks, and healthcare facilities within walking distance enhances walkability. However, like many cities in Brazil, some parts of Várzea Grande may struggle with pedestrian infrastructure, including uneven sidewalks or gaps in connectivity, which can deter walking. Public transportation options, such as bus routes, are also important to consider, as they can complement walking by providing access to farther destinations. Safety features, like well-lit streets and traffic calming measures, play a significant role in making neighborhoods more inviting for pedestrians. Overall, walkability in Várzea Grande reflects a combination of urban planning efforts and the natural layout of the city, impacting residents’ daily mobility and lifestyle choices.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Caucasian

Individuals of European descent, often representing a significant portion of the population in Várzea Grande.

Mixed Race (Pardo)

People of mixed heritage, including indigenous, African, and European ancestry, making up a substantial demographic group.

Black

Individuals of African descent, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Várzea Grande.

Indigenous

Aboriginal peoples, though a smaller percentage of the overall population, their presence is important to the region's history.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Várzea Grande, with numerous local teams and a passionate fan base.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played among youth and has a growing following in Várzea Grande, with local leagues and community events.

Volleyball

Volleyball has a strong presence in Várzea Grande, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport among young players.

Running

Running events and marathons are popular in Várzea Grande, attracting participants from the local community and surrounding areas.

Martial Arts

Various martial arts, including judo and taekwondo, are practiced widely, with clubs teaching discipline and self-defense.

Traffic

Traffic in the region can be characterized by its congestion during peak hours, primarily due to the high volume of vehicles on the roads and limited infrastructure. The city's strategic location, being close to the capital of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, adds to the daily commuter traffic. Main thoroughfares often experience bottlenecks, especially in areas where industrial or commercial activities are concentrated. While public transportation options exist, including buses and ride-sharing services, many residents rely on personal vehicles, which can exacerbate traffic conditions. Additionally, ongoing roadworks and construction projects can further impede the flow of traffic, creating temporary detours and delays. The mix of motorcycles navigating through lanes and pedestrians crossing busy streets also adds to the lively, albeit chaotic, traffic environment. Overall, navigating through the area can be challenging at times, requiring patience from both drivers and pedestrians.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Várzea Grande.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

While Várzea Grande's cuisine prominently features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in the area have adopted vegetarian and vegan options, so visitors with dietary preferences can enjoy dishes like palmito (heart of palm) and açaí bowls.

Gluten-Free

Several establishments in Várzea Grande offer gluten-free choices such as tapioca-based snacks, fresh fruit cocktails, and grilled proteins accompanied by naturally gluten-free sides.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region is characterized by a mix of public and private services, reflecting the challenges and strengths of Brazil's overall healthcare system. The public healthcare system, known as SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), provides free access to medical services for residents, including primary care, specialist consultations, hospitalizations, and emergency services. However, like many areas, it can be burdened by long wait times and resource limitations. In addition to the public system, several private healthcare facilities and plans exist, offering quicker access to services and a wider range of treatments. These private options are particularly appealing to those who can afford them, often resulting in a two-tier system where wealthier individuals receive more immediate and comprehensive care. The local government has made efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure by investing in clinics and hospitals. Community health programs and family health teams play a crucial role in preventive care and health education, aiming to reach underserved populations. Challenges remain, including disparities in access to healthcare between urban and rural areas, difficulties with funding, and issues related to healthcare professional training and retention. Efforts to enhance public health initiatives and improve healthcare delivery continue to shape the landscape of medical services in the area.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2024 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide