Cuiabá TRAVEL GUIDE
Cuiabá Brazil: A Quick Look
Are you one of those people who, when you think about Brazil, imagine a land with lots of sun and heat? If your answer is yes, Cuiabá, the Capital of the state of Mato-Grosso, fits perfectly into this stereotype, greatly pleasing travelers who like high temperatures, lots of nature, and fun for the whole family!
In this Cuiaba travel guide, you will find everything you need to know, from pre-planning your trip to staying safe.
I am a person who loves traveling to exotic places. Cuiaba was certainly one of my most extreme routes in Brazil. And, if you have similar tastes to mine, such as enjoying lots of natural beauty, outdoor walks, historic buildings, and cultural centers, Cuiabá will be perfect.
As I mentioned in the first lines of this Cuiaba travel guide, one of the highlights of Cuiaba is its high temperature: feel like you are practically traveling through Texas, feeling the full Brazilian heat on your skin.
Let’s embark on this incredible journey, but hey, don’t forget your bottle of water and lots of sunscreen! It’s time, let’s do this! After you read this, see our complete Brazil travel guide if you want more of an in-depth country guide.
Cuiabá Brazil: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go
🛫 Airport: The airport in Cuiabá, Brazil, is called Marechal Rondon International Airport. Its airport code is SBCY. Approximately 4.3 miles (7 km) to the city center
🤑 Currency: Brazilian Real, denoted by the symbol R$.
🗣️ Language: Portuguese. English is more common in tourist areas and in hotels.
🕰️ Time Zone: Amazonas Standard Time (GMT-4).
💵 Cost: Affordable when coming from a stronger currency such as the US dollar, or EURO or Yen.
🛜 Internet: Not as fast in comparison to being in the heart of Rio, but not terrible either. It is the middle of the road.
📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here. You do NOT need a visa for EU Nationals, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here.
🔌 Power Outlets: In Brazil, there are two associated plug types, Types C and N. Plug type C is the one that has two round pins. Plug type N is the plug that has two round pins and a larger grounding pin. When traveling to Brazil, it’s recommended to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with various outlets.
🔋 Power Grid: Great, Brazil operates on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60 Hz. Some of the newer hotels operate at 220V but do not count on this everywhere.
📳 Brazil SIM Card: If you are thinking, do I need a SIM card for Brazil? The answer is, for sure, yes. They are inexpensive, and having one in any country you travel to is safer. Brazil’s most used SIM card operators are Tim, Claro, Oi, and Vivo.
🚘 Car Rentals: Renting a car in Brazil can get a little overwhelming, and some people are a little nervous about driving abroad. However, depending on your trip, it could be the best way to get around. And remember: check your car’s air conditioning. You’ll need to use it a lot in the intense heat of Cuiabá.
Cuiabá Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)
🍏 Food Safety: Food is safe. Use common sense, though, and avoid certain things like grilled shrimp on the beach.
💧Water Safety: While traveling, it’s advisable to avoid tap water except for brushing your teeth. Filtered water and ice are generally safe options. Most restaurants have filters as well. To ensure your safety, consider filtering your water or purchasing bottled water. A Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle can be a convenient and eco-friendly solution for staying hydrated on the go.
👷♀️ Daytime Safety: The most common thing in any tourist area is petty theft. Here are some tips. Ditch designer clothes, purses, and jewelry (including expensive watches). Don’t bury your head in your phone. Only have your phone out when absolutely necessary.
🦺 Nighttime Safety: Use common sense like in any big city you visit. Don’t put valuables in your pocket, don’t walk alone at night, don’t pull your phone out on the street, don’t wear jewelry or watches or expensive purses, and don’t use the metro at night.
👺 Avoiding scams: Lock up your valuables. Buy your tickets online for sightseeing tours and concerts, not from a street vendor. Book taxis or Uber directly from your apps or hotel. Watch where you withdraw your money; do it at banks and not inside subway stations or stores. And no one should leave their drink unattended or drink without moderation, especially as a solo traveler.
Cuiabá Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective
💡 Stay smart, stay safe: Staying safe is one of the biggest concerns for us travelers. In Cuiabá, you need to be careful, just like in any city in the world, like London, for example. Do not accept walks without the guidance of an accredited professional or walk alone during the early hours of the morning. These are basic things that we need to take into consideration anywhere in the world, including Cuiabá.
🏨 Best Neighborhoods for Tourists: In the city of Cuiabá, there is not a wide variety of neighborhoods like in Belo Horizonte, for example. The city follows long-term urban planning, but don’t worry about that. Visiting or staying in one of the next neighborhoods we mentioned, you will be satisfied. Centro (best central), Popular (best for families), Goiabeiras (best halfway point), and Jardim das Américas (best for groups or solo).
🎄 Top Brazilian Holidays and Traditions: In this Travel Guide, I will not tell you to go to Cuiabá and enjoy a very lively Carnival as many people think. During my travels with several unique experiences in this wonderful city, I observed several festivals and traditions, such as Siriri, Cururu, Cavalhada, and Festa dos Mascarados.
🍜 Local Food to Try: When I leave Cuiabá, an enormous sadness fills my heart: I know that for a long time, I won’t taste the best fish in the world. You need to try the roasted Pacu fish, grilled Piraputanga, Mojica de Pintado, Rice with dried Pacu, Moqueca Cuiabana, Caldo de Piranha, fried Pacu Ventrecha, Dourado Fish and Piraputanga in banana leaf. Nowhere else in Brazil will you find such delicious fish cuisine.
🍹 Local Drinks to Try (alcoholic): Just like other places in Brazil, you will easily find lots of high-quality craft beer and Cachaça. However, in Cuiabá, look for Leite de Onça (Jaguar Milk) and “chixa or caxiri” which are traditional alcoholic drinks of the local indigenous people. This is indeed an experience that every adventurer would like to have, and only in this Cuiaba Travel Guide will you have this valuable information.
🧉 Local Drinks to Try (non-alcoholic): Tereré, Ponche Goiano, Gingibirra and Sembara. I believe that the most surprising non-alcoholic drink for you will be “Sembara,” a traditional indigenous drink made from buriti, coconut, rapadura, sugar, and water. But, the drink you will drink most frequently is the refreshing drink: “Tereré” which will definitely be your ally to contain the intense heat of Cuiabá.
🚶♂️ Walkability: The city is expansive, so having a car is advisable for easy transportation.
🎉 Nightlife: While it may not be as vibrant as São Paulo, Cuiabá does offer a decent nightlife scene, especially in specific neighborhoods like the “Centro” neighborhood.
😀 Friendly to Foreigners: Absolutely, the city warmly embraces people from all corners of Brazil and beyond.
🏥 Hospitals: Good, as a traveler, you care about local hospitals. And Cuiabá has great emergency care centers. Both public and private.
🇺🇸 English Speaking: On my last trip to Cuiabá, I noticed that there are many bilingual schools in the city. In other words, young people in Cuiabá understand and speak English easily. Furthermore, in the hostels, you will also be well attended to in several languages.
Cuiabá TRAVEL GUIDE
Where is Cuiabá Brazil Located?
Cuiabá Map
Cuiabá is located practically in the middle of Brazil, being the capital of the magnificent state of Mato Grosso. Its cultural influences are diverse due to the huge number of people from all over Brazil and the world. The two biggest cultural influences in Cuiabá are from the Indigenous people, who have been there for hundreds of years, and also the “Gaúcha” culture, strongly influenced by the state of “Rio Grande do Sul” and the country Argentina.
What State is Cuiabá In?
Bordering several “famous” neighbors, such as the state of Amazonas, Mato-Grosso do Sul, and the country of Bolivia. The state of Mato-Grosso is known regionally as one of the most prosperous lands in Brazil, with a very high production of soy, corn, cotton, and huge soy farms. In other words, Cuiabá is not only a tourist destination but also a large business center.
What’s the Closest Airport to Cuiabá Brazil?
The closest airport is in Cuiabá, called Marechal Rondon International Airport (Code: SBCY). The airport is about 21 minutes from downtown Cuiabá, approximately 4 miles (7 km). When flying in, you usually have a connection in either São Paulo or Campo Grande.
What is the Best Way to Get to Your Cuiabá Hotel?
Once you’ve arrived at Marechal Rondon International Airport (SBCY) in Cuiabá, there are a few different options for getting to your hotel. In this travel guide, I recommend you get a taxi or rideshares: There are always taxis available at the airport, and you can also use ridesharing services like Uber or 99 taxi.
The simplest, best way to have a hassle-free start to your trip is to organize a private shuttle to your hotel so you do not have to think about it upon landing. If you are more adventurous, then you can do the following.
💡Pro Tip: If you are planning to take an Uber, make sure that you have a Brazil SIM card so that your phone operates properly. You never want to depend on free public WIFI for using your ride-share apps.
You can take a taxi, but MAKE SURE the meter is on to avoid getting scammed. This is something you have to do in every country abroad, and it is no different here. I recommend that you ask your taxi driver to turn on the “taximeter,” and not just in Cuiabá, but anywhere in Brazil or the world. After all, numbers don’t lie, do they?
Renting a car in Cuiabá is a great option. Rental car places are at the airport, so it is an easy pickup. I’ll say this is a solid way to go if your plan includes driving around the city and surrounding areas. Should your planning be for a family thing, this is a great option. Driving a car will make your adventures in Cuiabá more exciting.
Cuiabá Travel Guide
How to Get Around Cuiabá?
Ride Sharing (top choice): There is no reason to worry! Ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 Taxi are popular in Cuiabá. They are cheap and convenient. They’re perfect for navigating the city with the least amount of hassle.
Rent a Car (top choice): Hiring a car will give you complete freedom for your Cuiabá adventure. This way, you can explore to your heart’s content. A rental car also lends so much more flexibility to your trip. Just don’t forget to bring your valid driver’s license and be prepared for right-side driving.
Take a Taxi: In Cuiabá, getting a taxi is a very simple task. As in most cities in Brazil, in Cuiabá, there are several spots reserved for “taxi drivers” to wait for their passengers. But remember my tip above: ask the taxi driver to turn on the “taximeter” so that you pay a fair price.
Get on a Bike: Since I was a child, I have loved riding a bike. And today, at 26 years old, nothing has changed. In Cuiabá, cycling can be an adventure. There are several places where you can easily rent a bike, both a “speed” and a “mountain” bike, to take on the adventures that this incredible city offers.
Public transportation (last choice): Public transport in Cuiabá is decent. However, at busy times, such as from 6 to 8 am and 4 to 6 pm, you will find that public transport will be crowded. Despite being cheap transport, I recommend that you travel by Taxi and hire a private app driver, such as Uber or 99 Taxi.
Cuiabá Travel Guide
When to Go to Cuiabá?
When planning your trip to Cuiabá to ensure you get the most out of it, it’s always a good idea to take a look at the weather forecasts on weather websites. After all, no one wants their schedule to be interrupted or even canceled because of heavy rain, right?
Keep in mind the seasons are opposite of the Northern Hemisphere.
Cuiabá Brazil Summer (December to March): In summer, temperatures can easily reach the 104ºF (40°C) mark in Cuiabá, making it the perfect time to explore the incredible Chapada dos Guimarães waterfalls. If you are planning a trip to the Pantanal from Cuiabá, it is good to know that the dry period runs from May to September. This can help you plan your adventures with more peace of mind!
Cuiaba Summer Carnival: Although Brazil is well known for Carnival throughout the world, I would never visit Cuiabá with the aim of celebrating Carnival. The city even has small Carnival parties, but nothing like Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo. This is a land for adventurers and lovers of exotic Brazilian cuisine.
Cuiaba Brazil Fall (April and May): This is not my case, but if you like unexpected rains, those rain showers that come and go very frequently, autumn will be excellent for you in Cuiaba. And I also emphasize in this travel guide that the heat does not go away with the rain.
Cuiaba Brazil Winter (June to August): As I mentioned before, here in Cuiabá, the heat is constant throughout the year, with temperatures often exceeding 68ºF (30ºC). During winter, the temperature even drops a little, but sometimes it is still hot, especially for those who are used to regions where temperatures rarely reach 77ºF (25ºC). So, if you come from a cooler place, be prepared for warmer weather during your stay here!
Cuiaba Brazil Spring (September to November): Regarding temperatures, during spring, Cuiaba has an average of 83ºF (28°C), which is an ideal temperature if you like bathing in waterfalls or enjoying a water park. The average minimum temperature in spring was 73ºF (23°C) in 2022, which I think is an ideal temperature for practicing physical activities.
Remember, regardless of when you decide to visit, you just can’t go wrong with Cuiabá!
Cuiabá Travel Guide
Where to Stay in Cuiabá Brazil? (By Neighborhood)
The hotel chain in Cuiabá is closely linked to business tourism, which can result in higher prices during weekdays. Most hotels are concentrated in the “Centro Sul” and “Centro Norte” regions, especially around “Avenida Fernando Correa da Costa.” This means you’ll find plenty of options to choose from when planning your stay in the city.
You need to keep in mind what you want to do during your stay, and the neighborhood options also include “Centro, Popular, Goiabeiras, and Jardim das Américas.”
Centro (Best Central)
If you like to be close to everything a city has to offer, the center is the ideal choice for your stay in Cuiabá. In addition to being the heart of commerce and essential services, this neighborhood also offers an abundance of restaurants, bars, and different types of accommodation.
The center of Cuiabá is an area full of history and culture, even protected by the “Instituto Patrimônio Histórico Artístico Nacional” (IPHAN). This is where you will find the city’s main tourist attractions. Walking through the streets of the historic center of Cuiabá is a very pleasant experience, which reveals a series of incredible places to explore.
Popular (Best For Families)
Another excellent option for staying in Cuiabá is the Popular neighborhood. This neighborhood, known as the most bohemian in the city, offers a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and lively nightlife, especially around Praça Popular.
The bohemian atmosphere of the Popular neighborhood is rooted in its history. Over time, this area has always attracted artists and intellectuals, which contributed to its uniqueness and development. Today, it is considered one of the most valued neighborhoods in Cuiabá, with excellent infrastructure and a variety of hotels that provide comfort and excellent value for money for visitors.
Goiabeiras (Best Halfway Point)
Goiabeiras is the favorite neighborhood of Cuiaba residents and has a special charm. Here, residential apartments predominate, and the neighborhood is home to around 6 thousand inhabitants. It is considered one of the noble neighborhoods of Cuiabá, with an upper and upper-middle-class population located in the west of the city.
One of the great advantages of Goiabeiras is that you will find two of the best shopping malls in the capital of Mato Grosso, and for us travelers, it is always good to have a shopping mall to buy something that we forgot to put in our backpacks. “Goiabeiras Shopping” offers more than 180 stores, while “Estação Cuiabá” has an impressive 278 stores. In addition, the region offers a variety of restaurant options, medical offices, and high-quality schools. It’s a place where life is convenient and enjoyable!
Jardim das Américas (Best For Groups or Solo)
“Jardim das Américas” is one of the most important neighborhoods in Cuiabá, offering a diversity of types of housing, commercial locations, and residential apartments. One of the region’s notable attractions is the main campus of the Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), which offers an incredible variety of more than 113 undergraduate courses, as well as extension courses. Additionally, the campus has walking areas and sports courts, making it a vibrant place for education and leisure. After all, we need to exercise even when we’re traveling, balancing eating lots of food and maintaining good health.
Another highlight of the neighborhood is “Shopping 3 Américas”, which brings together 210 stores and provides a great shopping experience. Furthermore, “Jardim das Américas” has quick access roads to other neighborhoods in the city, which makes getting around easier. You will also find a high concentration of restaurants, medical clinics, businesses, and offices in this area, making it even more convenient and complete for residents and visitors.
Cuiabá Travel Guide
Best Things to Do in Cuiabá Brazil
- Hike to Parque Mãe Bonifácia: This park in Cuiabá covers an area of approximately 77 hectares and plays a crucial role as the city’s green lung. One of the notable features of this park is the preservation of the rich cerrado flora and the diversity of fauna. Here, you can find animals such as marmosets, agoutis, possums, snakes, and a variety of birds. It is a true natural refuge within the Green City of Cuiabá, where nature is protected and admired.
- Visit the Historic Center: In this fascinating area of the historic center, there are a number of cultural treasures waiting to be explored. You’ll find stunning churches, history-filled museums, and memorials that tell the rich story of this region.
- Visit the Nosso Senhor dos Passos Church: The church is an incredible example of colonial architecture, with its bell tower charmingly located on the side of the building. The church plan is simple, with a single nave and a beautiful chancel.
- Discover Football in Cuiabá: Visit the “Arena Pantanal,” which was built in preparation for the 2014 World Cup. it is an impressive stadium with a capacity for around 43,000 spectators. It is considered one of the most modern stadiums in all of Brazil. In addition to being used for sporting events, this multi-purpose stadium plays a fundamental role in the city and is the home of “Cuiabá Esporte Clube,” a source of local pride for residents.
- Visit Museu da Arte Sacra: Everywhere I travel, I like to delve into the local cuisine, customs, and culture. The “Museum of Sacred Art” has several items from the 17th to the 20th century. You will see several works by indigenous people and European explorers. Don’t regret not really knowing how the city you visited and liked was founded and what its ancestors were like.
Cuiabá Travel Guide
Best Cuiabá Tours
If you’re considering finding a tour company that specializes in Cuiaba excursions, I can tell you it’s a fantastic idea. Sure, you can rent a car and explore on your own, but having a guide, especially one who speaks your language, can truly elevate your experience.
💡 Pro tip: If having a car in Cuiaba seems like a good fit for you, don’t forget another great option is renting a car.
💡 Pro Tip: It’s a smart move to look for agencies that are officially accredited by the Brazilian federal government for your excursions. It’s best to steer clear of hiring individuals you encounter on the street for guidance. You can make your reservations either online or at well-recognized tour establishments to ensure a safe and reliable experience.
I already revealed to you here that we won’t have nightlife or programs like that here; Cuiaba and nature are practically synonymous for Brazilians. As a fan of Brazilian fauna, I would do all these tours every year if I could.
Here Are the Top Tours for Cuiabá:
- 3-Day Wilderness Tour: How about experiencing the stunning beauty of the Pantanal with a local wildlife safari guide on an exciting 3-day tour from Cuiabá? It’s a wonderful way to increase your chances of spotting some of the Pantanal’s most incredible animals, such as jaguars, capybaras, howler monkeys, otters, coatis, toucans, macaws, and even giant anteaters.
- 8-day Jaguar Tour and Safari in the Pantanal: On this exciting adventure, you can watch birds and photograph jaguars throughout the tour. Do not be afraid! All these incredible moments are guided by experienced guides who have vast knowledge about the rich flora and fauna of the Pantanal.
- 4-days in the North Pantanal Uncovering Exotic Treasures in the Pantanal: For all wildlife lovers, take note of this exciting experience: our Pantanal safari will take you up close to some of the world’s most spectacular species amidst the largest floodplains in the world planet. This unique adventure takes place both by canoe and on horseback in search of the exceptional flora and fauna that characterize the beauty of this place, helping us discover why such an eternal Eden was formally recognized as a World Heritage Site of essential environmental importance.
- Private Custom Tours: I sometimes like personalizing things and doing a private custom tour. This way, you can choose your own itinerary and go at your own pace, not having to worry about a group.
More Detail on Tours in Cuiabá:
Cuiabá Travel Guide
Is Cuiabá Safe for Tourists?
Cuiabá is doing well when it comes to safety! According to the Brazilian Public Security Yearbook, it is the second capital in Brazil, with the lowest number of violent deaths. We, travelers, know that these numbers are very important when we decide to choose a route.
One more piece of information that I have made available in this travel guide to make you feel more at ease when traveling to Cuiaba is that in the last three years, the government of Mato Grosso has invested a lot of money in improving public security, around 274 million reais, which which is equivalent to 46 million dollars. Adventurer, pack your bags and travel safely to Cuiabá, Mato Grosso!
The more pre-planning you do, the less of a target you are.
💡Pro Safety Tips (For any city you travel to):
- Protect Your Belongings: Choose travel bags with secure zippers or closures, and remember to keep your valuable items, like jewelry, out of sight when you’re in public.
- Keep Important Copies: Make copies of essential documents such as your passport, ID card, travel tickets, and credit cards. It’s even better if you keep these copies separate from the originals or securely stored online.
- Stay Connected: Let someone you trust know your travel plans and where you’ll be staying. Keep your phone charged, have emergency numbers handy, and keep the contact details for your country’s embassy or consulate easily accessible.
- Stay Healthy: Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, especially if you’re traveling to specific destinations. Drink bottled water and be mindful of what you eat to avoid health issues.
It’s always wise to take these common-sense precautions. Cuiabá generally has a lower crime rate compared to some other Brazilian cities, but it’s still essential to stay vigilant and not let your guard down. Your safety matters!
In this Travel Guide, I’d like to suggest that you make use of secure storage options for your valuables, passports, and important documents. Your peace of mind during your trip is our priority!
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?
This is a question that I get a lot, as travel insurance can get confusing. This is a critical part of your trip though so that you do not have to worry when visiting Cuiabá or any other part of the world.
Figuring out travel insurance can be overwhelming. However, having the right travel insurance coverage is essential for a stress-free trip to Cuiabá, Brazil. The key is to make sure it is simple and flexible.
To streamline this, we have broken down the best travel insurance companies out there in the industry that are all great but also serve different needs.
Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table:
✅ World Nomads: Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear.
✅ SafetyWing: This is for general travelers, frequent travelers, and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage.
✅ Travel Insurance Master: Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies.
Cuiabá Travel Guide
Cuiabá Travel: Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Drink the Water in Cuiabá, Brazil?
The short answer is NO.
In Cuiabá, Brazil, It is better to avoid unfiltered water. Even though it is treated and typically safe to drink as a visitor, why even take the risk?
Why not drink tap water? Well, the water that comes from the public supply system is treated and should be safe for consumption. However, it is important to remember that, after treatment, it travels through a network of pipes throughout the city before reaching our taps and showers. During this journey, the water can pick up impurities, such as rust particles and other substances, which make it unsuitable for drinking directly.
Brushing your teeth is fine, but otherwise, I would either get bottled water or bring your own filtered water bottle.
That being said, many restaurants in Cuiaba use purified water for customers and also to prepare ice, so your cold drinks are usually good to go. Be sure to ask the restaurant, and if not, go back to the bottled water option.
Also, keep in mind that the Brazilian sun is hot and strong, so you want to stay hydrated. The last thing you want to do is get sick and ruin your trip because of dehydration. Try do drink about 2 to 3 liters of water daily while in Cuiabá.
So Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:
- In an AirBnb, boil the water if you do not have bottled water.
- In a hotel, buy bottled water, but this can get expensive.
- Never drink water directly from a river or waterfall.
- Get a filtered water bottle that you can refill for free, eliminating concerns about something as simple as staying hydrated while in Cuiabá, Brazil. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for a sustainable and convenient solution to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water wherever you go.
What’s the Cuiabá Weather Like?
Isn’t it annoying when we go traveling, and the weather isn’t what we expected? I won’t make that mistake anymore! and, like a good travel advisor, in this travel guide, I want to guide you in an easy way so that you can enjoy the weather you want. Whether it’s rainy season or intense sun, you need to make the most of this adventure!
Cuiabá, the capital of the State of Mato Grosso, has a hot and humid tropical climate. The last time I was in Cuiaba, I felt intense heat during the day. However, at night, an intense breeze eliminates the hot or stuffy climate. Do you know that wind breeze is present on coasts? It’s the same feeling on the nights in Cuiabá.
The city is located at the transition between the southern edge of the Amazon rainforest and the vast, humid region of the Pantanal. Furthermore, its proximity to the Chapada dos Guimarães mountains influences the local climate, blocking the arrival of polar air masses and resulting in an extremely hot climate. In other words, don’t wait for cold fronts in Cuiabá.
Temperatures in Cuiabá remain relatively constant throughout the year. Maximum temperatures range between 86ºF (30°C) and 93ºF (34°C), with the hottest months occurring between August and October, while June is the mildest month. Minimum temperatures range from 60ºF (16°C) in July to 73ºF (23°C) in January.
The city’s climate is divided into two seasons based on the amount of rainfall. The rainy season runs from October to April, while the dry season runs from May to September. The rainiest months are December, January, and February, while June, July, and August are the driest, which are perfect for visiting the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, for example. In total, the city receives around 1,300 mm of rain per year.
Air humidity varies throughout the year. In the months of February and March, humidity reaches around 80%, while in July, August, and September, it is around 60%. And when the humidity drops that much, we need to hydrate much more than usual. It’s worth remembering to take care of your skin: use sunscreen every 1 or 2 hours.
Is Cuiabá Expensive?
For tourists from the US and Europe, or any area with that strong of a currency, Cuiabá can seem much cheaper due to the exchange rates. Things like accommodations, food, and transportation can be cheaper compared to what you’d typically pay back home.
Eating out, especially at local spots, will usually cost much less than what you’d expect to pay in a major city in the US or Europe, just due to the favorable exchange rates.
Keep in mind, though, if you want to go to super high-end hotels and beach clubs, it won’t be that much cheaper. However, it still is relative and will be cheaper if you compare high-end to high-end.
You can also find well-priced local goods and services, including artisanal crafts and guided tours. However, imported goods, upscale dining, and luxury accommodations can be on par with Western prices.
It’s worth mentioning that prices will increase during the peak tourist season, especially when looking at the high-demand areas. So, if you’re traveling on a strict budget, avoiding the summer months will help make your money go further.
Is Cuiabá Worth Visiting?
Surely! Although Cuiaba is not a popular route among Brazilians, there are many people from outside the country who really value this incredible city. As a native Brazilian citizen, I say: I would like to visit Cuiabá every year. Below I will list some reasons for you to visit this city.
Firstly, Cuiabá is located right in the heart of South America. It is an incredible place to visit, especially if you like exploring historical landmarks and mystical sites. The city serves as a starting point for some of Brazil’s most unique attractions, such as the Pantanal and Chapada dos Guimarães.
What makes Cuiabá even more special is its rich mix of cultures, including traditional people and immigrants who have settled over the years. The city is full of ancient churches, fascinating museums, art galleries, charming squares, lively nightlife, and delicious unique cuisine to try.
It is a destination that has a lot to offer for all tastes and interests.
How Many Days Do I Need in Cuiabá Brazil?
In just two days, exploring and becoming acquainted with the key tourist attractions in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, is feasible. There are some tours that you can do in 3, 4, or even 8 days. And you won’t want to leave this wonderful city without trying the local cuisine and getting to know the vast cultural background, right?
However, if you want to do the various tours, including the forests and all the attractions presented in this Cuiaba Travel Guide, about 7 days is better for all of it.
General Cuiabá, Brazil Travel Info & FAQ
🌞 Cuiabá Weather
Our beloved Cuiaba has a hot and humid tropical climate with two well-defined seasons. During the summer, from October to April, the city enters the rainy season, with high temperatures and frequent rain.
In winter, from May to September, the dry season prevails, characterized by milder temperatures and little precipitation. Average annual temperatures are quite high, which makes Cuiabá one of the hottest cities in the country.
💰 Brazil Currency
Brazil’s official currency is the Brazilian Real, symbolized as BRL or R$. Although cards are widely accepted in popular areas and hotels, you still want to have some cash on hand. This is in case you really want to hit a street vendor for food or a painting. The worst thing is getting caught with no cash and missing that unique opportunity.
🗣️ Brazil Language
Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, so in Cuiabá and throughout the country, this is what you’ll most likely hear.
English is widely spoken in many tourist spots and hotels, but picking up some basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your overall experience and how locals perceive you. There are plenty of guides who can communicate in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, making it easier to connect with the local culture.
If you want to learn a bit of Portuguese prior to going, DuoLingo and Pimsleur are great tools to use.
🛫 Cuiabá Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season
Cuiaba Busy Season: The peak tourist season falls in the months of January, November, and December. March is the least expensive month for flying from Cuiabá. Traveler tip for travelers: on night flights, you can get air tickets up to 10% cheaper to Cuiabá.
Cuiaba Slow Season: This is the winter time and goes from June to September. It is much more relaxed, and there will be far less tourists. If you are looking to go to Brazil and get travel deals while doing it, then this is your time to plan the trip.
Cuiaba Shoulder Season: From June to September, Cuiabá typically experiences average tourist traffic due to lower demand from both the local and foreign populations.
Do I Need a Visa for Brazil?
The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023.
The Longer Answer: Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country.
Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.
Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan
Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes.
This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.
Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this.
Section 2: European Union (EU) Nationals
For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil.
This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.
Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.
For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip.
The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here.
What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List?
The last thing you want is to overpack and lug around unnecessary items during your travels. Likewise, it’s equally frustrating to forget essential items and disrupt your entire trip, forcing you to spend half a day in a Brazilian mall searching for a travel adapter.
Packing for Brazil should be done in advance, just like any other major trip abroad.
Here’s a Curated List Focusing On Your Primary Needs:
🔌 Power Adapters: Brazil utilizes type C and N outlets, so ensure you have the correct adapters for your devices to avoid wasting time buying them upon arrival. Additionally, carrying a Power Bank can be a lifesaver for crucial moments. Don’t forget to pack at least one in your luggage; it can be a game-changer when you need it most. Consider investing in a universal travel adapter for seamless compatibility with various outlets during your travels.
📳 Brazil and Cuiabá SIM Card: Staying connected is important, especially when traveling abroad. Get a Brazil or Cuiabá-specific SIM card for easy communication and online access. Brazil’s most common SIM card operators are Tim, Claro, Oi, and Vivo. This helps a ton when dealing with things like Maps and Uber.
💧 Filterable Water Bottle: While tap water in Cuiabá is generally safe, it’s still advisable to avoid drinking water directly from the tap. Carrying a filterable water bottle can be incredibly convenient and environmentally friendly, reducing the need for constantly purchasing bottled water to stay hydrated. A Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle is an excellent choice for ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water wherever you go.
💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: Brazil’s nightlife is wild. It’s for sure worth carrying anti-hangover medications to make sure your trip runs smoother. The last thing you want to do is waste an entire day out of a seven-day trip in bed with a hangover. And again, remember to hydrate.
👒 Sun Protection: The sun can be incredibly intense here, so don’t underestimate it. Remember to pack a high-SPF sunscreen and a sun hat to shield your skin and face. If you’re running low on space, consider budgeting to buy these essentials locally. Your skin will thank you!
🦟 Bug Repellent: Brazil features a tropical climate, and in Cuiabá, abundant foliage means encountering numerous mosquitoes. Whether enjoying a beach sunset or hiking through the forest, insect repellent is essential. Don’t forget to pack your eco-friendly bug repellent to stay protected while exploring the vibrant landscapes of Cuiabá!
🩴 Comfortable Footwear: Remember, there are many different terrains here. You will definitely need comfortable walking shoes and also sandals or flip-flops.
📄 Travel Documents: Don’t forget your passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance documents. Travel insurance is good to have a few printouts in case you need it for any reason. It is also good to have a photocopy of these important documents separately in case of loss or theft. Without photocopies, this would be a nightmare to deal with. You can also present your copy digitally on your cell phone.
The rest of your packing list should include clothing geared to the season you plan to travel to Cuiabá in. Tailor this list according to your needs and planned activities.
Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Cuiabá Brazil?
Absolutely, it is safe and perfectly fine to rent a car and drive around in Cuiaba, Brazil. The city has a more laid-back driving atmosphere compared to other Brazilian cities, making it a more comfortable experience for visitors.
While Brazilian traffic rules may seem a little busy, navigating Cuiaba is generally hassle-free. Key road signs are also in Portuguese, but don’t worry, the rental car GPS or Google Maps on your phone will give you directions in your language.
Remember, in Brazil, driving is on the right-hand side. You’ll need to make sure to have good car rental insurance for peace of mind, and you’re all set to go. You can get this through the same place you rent the car from, no problem.
In this travel guide, I need to give you important legal notice: the minimum age for renting a car is generally 21. Still, some categories, such as luxury vehicles, may require a higher minimum age due to a higher risk of accidents.
When you are parking, make sure to lock your car and double-check that none of your personal stuff is in plain sight.
Overall, driving around Cuiaba is not just safe, but it’s also a cool experience. It gives you way more freedom and flexibility to see stuff. I feel like renting a car in Cuaiba is more than just a way to get around. It’s part of the adventure!
Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?
No, not at all. You don’t necessarily need to speak Portuguese to visit Brazil. In tourist-heavy areas like Cuiaba, you’ll find many locals, particularly in the hospitality industry, who can communicate in English.
However, learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese can enrich your travel experience, help you engage more with the local culture, and can be very useful in situations where English isn’t widely spoken. Tools like DuoLingo are great, user-friendly language apps that can help you pick up the basics before your trip.
In this travel guide, I highly recommend that having some knowledge of the local language can greatly enrich your travel experience. It opens doors to a deeper understanding of the local culture, enabling you to engage with locals, grasp their traditions, and fully participate in cultural events.
Here are Some Great Language Preparation Options For Your Trip to Brazil:
Learn Basic Portuguese: Consider using language-learning platforms such as DuoLingo or Pimsleur. They provide interactive courses that can boost your confidence and conversational skills in Portuguese before your trip. It’s a fantastic way to prepare for a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
Use Google Translate App: This app is a lifesaver when you’re navigating language barriers. Remember, you’ll need a Brazil SIM card with data for the app to work without WiFi.
Get a Portuguese Phrasebook: Consider packing a Portuguese phrasebook, such as the Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook. It’s a fantastic non-digital assistant that can help you communicate and understand the local language better.
Even if you don’t become fluent, having some very basic knowledge of the local language will definitely enhance your travel experience in Cuiabá, Brazil. It will be much appreciated if the locals see you have tried to make an effort, even if it is small.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel?
Yes, Brazil can be safe for solo female travelers, but like anywhere in the world, it’s important to take precautions.
Like in any country, safety in Brazil depends on several factors, including the particular location you select, the time of year, your level of preparation, and your personal conduct. Brazil is a diverse country with varying levels of safety across regions, so it’s essential to research and plan accordingly to ensure a secure and enjoyable visit.
A valuable tip is to conduct extensive research on your destination before your trip. Be informed about areas that may pose security risks and make an effort to steer clear of them whenever possible.
Practicing common-sense safety involves researching and staying at highly-rated accommodations, booking tours online rather than with street vendors, avoiding isolated areas, and staying vigilant about your surroundings at all times. Your safety is a top priority!
In addition, do not bring anything flashy. Leave that at home.
I also suggest that you show respect for local customs and adhere to dress codes when visiting. Utilizing trusted transportation services, such as ride-sharing apps like Uber or renting your car, can enhance your safety while getting around.
In this travel guide, we encourage you to keep in touch with friends or family and inform them about your plans for added safety.
Solo travel in Brazil, especially in Cuiabá, can be a fantastic experience with proper planning. So, don’t hesitate! Come and explore Cuiabá to discover why we rave about it so much.
