Tangará da Serra, located in western Mato Grosso, traces its origins back to the 1970s, when the Brazilian government promoted settlement in the region as part of a broader strategy to develop inland areas and expand agriculture. Initially inhabited by Indigenous peoples such as the Paresí, the area began to be colonised by migrants from southern Brazil, drawn by the fertile soil and favourable climate for farming. In 1976, the district of Tangará da Serra was established under the jurisdiction of Barra do Bugres. Full municipal status was achieved on 13 May 1976, heavily influenced by the coloniser Ariosto da Riva. Since then, the town has grown rapidly, becoming an important agricultural and service hub. Its economy is based on grain production especially soy, maize and cotton as well as livestock farming. Over the years, Tangará da Serra has become one of the most promising cities in the state, maintaining a strong connection to the Cerrado and its local traditions.
Tangará da Serra's culture is shaped by the blend of southern Brazilian settlers with Indigenous and sertanejo (rural) influences. Popular festivals like Arraiá da Serra and the Beach Festival highlight regional traditions through country music, folk dances, and local cuisine. The city also embraces contemporary artistic expressions, with cultural projects supported by institutions such as UNEMAT, which plays a key role in education and cultural outreach in the region.
Tangará da Serra offers a variety of activities for those seeking nature, culture, and relaxation. The Geodesic Centre Viewpoint provides panoramic views of the surrounding region. The waterfalls of the Sepotuba Basin are perfect for swimming and eco-trails. Visitors can also engage with Paresí Indigenous communities, who share ancestral knowledge and sustainable practices. In the city centre, craft and food markets offer typical Cerrado products and items from small-scale local farms.
Notable attractions include the Quati and Salto Maciel waterfalls, both admired for their natural beauty and easy access. The Municipal Park is ideal for walks and wildlife observation. The Sepotuba River, with its rapids and crystal-clear waters, invites canoeing and swimming in its river beaches. The Municipal History Museum and the House of Culture preserve the memory of early settlers and Indigenous communities.
Arraiá da Serra, held in June, is one of the most lively “Festa Junina” events in the state, featuring traditional dances, regional cuisine, and music shows. September brings the Beach Festival on the Sepotuba River, blending leisure and eco-tourism. The city’s anniversary on 13 May is marked by civic parades and cultural performances. ExpoSerra, an agricultural and industrial fair, is a major event promoting business and entertainment. UNEMAT also organises academic and cultural events throughout the year.
Tangará da Serra has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season (May to September) and a rainy season (October to April). Temperatures remain high for most of the year, ranging between 22°C and 32°C. June and July are ideal for outdoor activities, with milder weather and little rainfall. In summer, though wetter, the weather is perfect for river and waterfall visits. The town is well-equipped to receive tourists year-round.
For travellers from Europe, the most common route is to fly internationally to São Paulo (Guarulhos) or Brasília, followed by a domestic flight to Cuiabá, the capital of Mato Grosso. From Cuiabá, Tangará da Serra lies about 240 km away, reachable by road in approximately four hours. Regular bus services are available, and car hire is an option for those who prefer to drive. The journey features typical Cerrado landscapes with scenic stops along the way.
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