Poconé, founded on 21 January 1781, began as a gold mining hub during the colonial era. Its origins trace back to an expedition led by Antônio Pinto de Souza and the establishment of the Poconé settlement. With the depletion of gold deposits, the local economy shifted to cattle ranching and later to eco-tourism, thanks to its proximity to the Pantanal, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The city preserves traces of the colonial period in its streets and buildings, reflecting the cultural richness of its foundation. Poconé also played a pivotal role in the settlement of western Brazil, serving as a strategic point for integration routes.
Poconé’s culture is deeply rooted in its Pantanal traditions, particularly in its music, dance, and religious expressions. The Cavalhada is one of its most significant cultural events, celebrating Iberian influences in the region. Local crafts, made from natural materials such as wood and fibres, highlight the community’s harmonious relationship with the environment.
In Poconé, explore the Transpantaneira Park Road, a scenic route brimming with biodiversity, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, a historical and cultural landmark. For authentic experiences, interacting with Pantanal farms offers unique activities like horseback riding and photo safaris.
Key attractions include the Pantanal Mato-grossense National Park, one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries, and Sesc Pantanal, one of Brazil’s largest private reserves. Don’t miss the Praça da Matriz and the Historic Centre, where you can admire colonial architecture dating back to the city’s founding.
Poconé’s annual events celebrate its rich cultural and religious heritage. The Cavalhada de Poconé, held in June, blends tradition with spectacle. In October, the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, the city’s patroness, takes place. The calendar also features ecological festivals promoting Pantanal conservation.
Poconé has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season, from May to October, ideal for exploring the Pantanal, and the rainy season, from November to April, when the biome’s flooding cycle transforms the landscape into a vibrant mosaic of life. Temperatures range between 20°C and 35°C, with the hottest months in summer.
Poconé is 100 km from Cuiabá, the capital of Mato Grosso, which has an international airport with regular flights from major Brazilian cities and some international routes. From Europe, connections are available via São Paulo or Brasília. From Cuiabá, the journey to Poconé can be made by car or bus on well-paved roads.
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