Lesson 5 – Geography

The geography of Mato Grosso do Sul is remarkably diverse and offers a panorama of landscapes that range from vast plains and flooded areas to plateaus and mountain ranges. Located in the Central-West region of Brazil, the state covers an area of approximately 357,125 km², making it the sixth-largest state in the country.

Relief and Geological Formation

The relief of Mato Grosso do Sul is predominantly characterised by plains and depressions, but it also includes significant geological formations. The region features plateaus such as the Chapada dos Parecis and the Serra da Bodoquena, which are notable for their altitude and impressive landscapes. The Serra da Bodoquena, for example, is known for its caves and waterfalls, while the Chapada dos Parecis presents a distinct geological configuration with vast areas of grassland and vegetation.

Serra da Bodoquena

Hydrography The state is drained by several important rivers that are part of the Pantanal and Paraná basins. Among the main rivers are the Paraná River, which forms part of the border with the state of Mato Grosso and Paraguay, and the Paraguay River, which is one of the primary contributors to the formation of the Pantanal. The Rio da Prata and the Rio Sucuri, which originate in Bonito, are known for their crystal-clear waters and attract tourists seeking ecotourism.

Rio Sucuri – Bonito / MS. Photo: Flávio André/MTur

Climate

Mato Grosso do Sul has a tropical savanna climate, with a well-defined rainy season and dry season. The rainy season typically occurs between November and March, bringing a significant increase in humidity and river flow. The dry season, which lasts from May to September, is characterised by higher temperatures and lower humidity, resulting in a more arid environment.

Vegetation

The vegetation of Mato Grosso do Sul varies according to the region. The state encompasses large areas of cerrado, featuring shrubs and small trees adapted to the dry climate and natural fires. The Pantanal, one of the largest flooded areas in the world, possesses unique vegetation of floodplains and wetlands, rich in aquatic flora and grasses. In contrast, the plateau and chapada areas may exhibit denser vegetation and gallery forests along watercourses.

Route Cerrado Pantanal – Costa Rica – P Est. Nascentes do Taquari

Borders and Location

Mato Grosso do Sul borders the states of Mato Grosso, Goiás, and Minas Gerais, as well as the neighbouring countries of Bolivia and Paraguay. Its strategic location in the centre of Brazil makes it a confluence point for various transport corridors and regional integration.

In summary, the geography of Mato Grosso do Sul is a mosaic of relief forms, water resources, and vegetation that reflects its strategic position in Brazil’s Central-West region. The geographical diversity of the state not only defines its natural environment but also influences economic development and opportunities for tourism and environmental conservation.