On March 12, 1905, an expedition made camp for the night at Rebojo on the left bank. This dated stop gives Rebojo a specific connection to the history of travel. The wider destination of Aquidauana offers further perspectives: landscapes, architectural history, regional cuisine and cultural traditions.
Nature and Activities in the Aquidauana Destination
The Pantanal covers 75 percent of the municipality of Aquidauana. Another way to experience the landscape is the Estrada-Parque de Piraputanga: it follows the Aquidauana River through hills, waterfalls and trails rich in biodiversity. Around Piraputanga and Camisão, ecotourism, cycling tourism, rural and gastronomic tourism, and birdwatching are among the activities offered along the route’s section connected with Aquidauana.
In the rural area of the municipality of Aquidauana, activities offered in connection with an accommodation establishment include horseback riding, hiking, photo safaris, boat trips on the Rio Aquidauana and piranha fishing. The municipality is also home to six Pantanal lodges currently in operation. Activities there include horseback riding, night-time wildlife observation with spotlights, photo safaris, hiking, Chalana boat trips and typical Pantanal cuisine. The number of lodges may change; check the latest information before your trip.
Morro do Paxixi is located in Camisão, a district of Aquidauana. It is suited to contemplative tourism, with views of the Cerrado landscape of Mato Grosso do Sul. The wider destination therefore brings together different aspects of nature: the vast Pantanal landscape, activities in rural areas and views of the Cerrado.
City History and Culture in Aquidauana
In Aquidauana’s historic center, colonial architecture can be seen along the Aquidauana River and around the main church. The Igreja Matriz de Aquidauana is an architectural and historic heritage site; it was built in 1930. Another chapter of the city’s history is visible at the railway station: construction began in 1908, and the station opened on December 21, 1912. It currently houses the Estação Pantaneira restaurant, Casa do Artesão and a tourist information center. Confirm these current uses before your trip.
The history of Santiago de Xerez also goes back a long way. The city was founded in 1600 and destroyed by Portuguese bandeirantes in 1632; it is among the first 34 cities of Spanish origin established in the Americas. The ruins are located in Aquidauana, by the river, about twelve kilometers from the present-day city center. For another glimpse into history, visits to the Museu Marechal José Machado Lopes are possible by appointment; admission is free. Arrange your visit and confirm the details in advance. The Museu de Arte Pantaneira was established in 1998 in a building constructed in 1918.
Regional Cuisine and Traditions
The Feirinha Indígena in Aquidauana sells agricultural produce from the Indigenous village of Limão Verde. This includes corn, cassava and maxixe, as well as seasonal fruit. At Casa do Artesão, embroidery and handicrafts made by the Terena people from villages in the municipality are sold; the selection may vary. Regional produce and handicrafts can therefore be considered as distinct priorities when planning a trip.
Events also bring cuisine and culture together. The Festa do Pequi takes place in the district of Camisão and celebrates regional cuisine and Pantanal culture. Typical dishes include foods made with pequi, a fruit characteristic of the Cerrado. The traditional Festa do Peixe also takes place in Camisão. It features fish dishes such as stews, portions, soups, frittatas and lasagna, as well as handicrafts. Aquidauana’s Festa da Padroeira is associated with December 8 and brings the local community together. Check event dates before planning your trip around them.
Accommodation and Choosing Your Focus
The six Pantanal lodges currently operating in the municipality offer a direct connection to activities in the Pantanal. Rebojo’s historical connection remains distinct: it is the expedition’s dated stop on March 12, 1905. When choosing accommodation and other experiences, it is worth checking the relevant locations and current conditions before booking.
Discover more destinations: Eldorado, Maracaju, Mundo Novo, Miranda, Terenos, Rio Verde De Mato Grosso, Dourados, Morro Azul.
Return to the broader travel overview: Mato Grosso Do Sul.
