Jardim
Mato Grosso do Sul · Brazil
Serra da Bodoquena, emerald-blue lagoons and the natural gateway between the Cerrado and the Pantanal.
The region was the setting for one of the most remarkable episodes in national history: the Retreat from Laguna, during the Paraguayan War. Brazilian troops crossed this territory in a military campaign that was etched into the collective memory of Mato Grosso do Sul, consolidating the strategic importance of the lands of the Serra da Bodoquena.
The area belonged to Fazenda Jardim, which gave its name to the future settlement. Permanent occupation came with the development of farms and trade routes, driven by cattle ranching and the natural wealth of the region — crystal-clear rivers, caves and a biodiversity that still enchants visitors today.
The arrival of the Road Commission (CER-3) for the construction of the BR-060 was a watershed moment: it boosted the settlement, attracted new families and transformed Jardim into a regional hub. The CER-3 Museum, now a city landmark, preserves this living memory.
In 1948, Jardim was a district of Bela Vista. Political and administrative independence in 1979 transformed the district into an autonomous municipality, paving the way for the development of ecotourism, cattle ranching and the consolidation of Jardim as a regional hub of the Serra da Bodoquena.
One of the deepest flooded caves in the world. Crystal-clear, deep-blue waters — an international reference for cave diving and contemplation.
Snorkelling in turquoise-blue waters with exceptional visibility. Fish, underwater vegetation and pristine landscapes in a natural state.
A vast natural sinkhole home to dozens of scarlet macaws. One of the most impressive natural landmarks of the Serra da Bodoquena.
Area of rich biodiversity with waterfalls, trails, rivers and caves. Internationally recognised for its crystal-clear waters and preserved ecosystem.
Impressive rock formations ideal for exploration and contemplation. The limestone geology creates unique underground scenery.
Stunning scenery for those seeking adventure and contact with nature. Trails that reveal the fauna and flora of the Cerrado and Pantanal.
Direct contact with crystal-clear rivers, fish and native forest. Options for swimming, leisure and contemplation in a fully preserved environment.
Rivers teeming with species such as pacu, pintado and dourado. Excellent for sport fishing in a natural, regulated environment.
Meats slow-cooked over an open ground fire, a heritage of fieldwork and the droving teams that once crossed the region.
A regional tradition linked to drovers and the countryside. A simple, comforting dish that is a cornerstone of the interior's culinary identity.
Pacu, pintado and dourado — the star ingredients on Jardim's tables, caught in the crystal-clear rivers of the Serra da Bodoquena.
A baked snack of cassava starch and cheese with Paraguayan influence. Enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack or at any time of day.
Much more than a drink — a symbol of togetherness, tradition and the identity of Mato Grosso do Sul, shared in circles and conversation.
A blend of flavours from the Pantanal, the border and the interior: cassava, corn, cheese and recipes inherited from pioneer families.
Visit the CER-3 Museum and the historic centre. Discover the history of the BR-060 construction and Jardim's strategic role in the region.
Cemetery of the Heroes of the Paraguayan War and historic monuments. Walking tour of the city centre, local crafts and the main square.
Dinner with regional cuisine, tereré shared in a circle with locals. Feel the calm and welcoming rhythm of a city that lives its past with pride.
Snorkelling at Rio da Prata — turquoise-blue crystal waters, tame fish and an otherworldly underwater landscape.
Visit Lagoa Misteriosa for diving or contemplation. Buraco das Araras: the scarlet macaws in their natural habitat will astonish any visitor.
Ecological trail at dusk. Sunset over the Serra da Bodoquena and a dinner based on regional fish.
Sport fishing on the region's rivers or a visit to a natural swimming hole. Direct contact with the fauna and flora of the Cerrado and Pantanal.
Regional gastronomy: Pantanal barbecue, arroz carreteiro and chipa. Shopping for crafts in leather, wood and seeds.
Farewell with sunset over the Serra. Jardim stays with you forever — just like the clarity of its waters.
Lagoa Misteriosa is one of the deepest flooded caves in the world — its total depth has not yet been fully mapped.
Buraco das Araras is a natural sinkhole where dozens of scarlet macaws nest, visible to the naked eye from the rim.
The region was a strategic route of the Retreat from Laguna during the Paraguayan War — one of the most dramatic episodes in Brazilian history.
The CER-3 Museum preserves the history of the BR-060 construction, the road that transformed Jardim into a regional hub in the 20th century.
Jardim is part of the Serra da Bodoquena, internationally recognised as one of the largest freshwater aquifers on the planet.
The transparency of the region's rivers is the result of filtration through the limestone of the Serra da Bodoquena — a unique geological phenomenon.
Macaws, toucans, tapirs, jaguars and caimans coexist just a few kilometres from the urban centre of Jardim.
Strategically positioned on the Bioceanic Route, Jardim has the potential to become one of the corridor's great international ecotourism destinations.
Serra da Bodoquena, emerald-blue lagoons and the natural gateway between the Cerrado and the Pantanal.
Lagoa Misteriosa, Rio da Prata and swimming holes with visibility that reveals another world. The limestone geology of the Bodoquena creates a phenomenon unique on the planet.
Macaws, toucans, jaguars, tapirs and caimans just a few kilometres from the town centre. Buraco das Araras is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in Brazil.
Cemetery of the Heroes, CER-3 Museum and traces of the Retreat from Laguna. Jardim is one of the guardians of the historical memory of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Landmark of the Paraguayan War. Military and historical memory of 19th-century bravery.
Collection of the Road Commission. History of the BR-060 and regional transformation.