lagoon / birdwatching · Nobres, MT
Lagoa das Araras
A lagoon surrounded by palm trees where dozens of blue-and-yellow macaws arrive to roost in the late afternoon. The show of flight and noise lasts only a few minutes and is worth the trip.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lagoa das Araras
Lagoa das Araras is a small bird sanctuary in the district of Bom Jardim, in Nobres, Mato Grosso. It lies in a transition zone between the Cerrado and the Amazon, near the village that is the hub for the region's snorkeling tours.
The lagoon is surrounded by buriti palms, which provide shelter and nesting sites for many birds. In the late afternoon, macaws, parrots, parakeets and other small parrots return in flocks to the palms, in a show of flight and noise that coincides with sunset. Egrets also often appear on the water.
The site is on private property and works as an ecological sanctuary. From the parking lot, a short, flat trail leads to the observation decks, with benches where you wait for the birds to arrive.
It is a relaxed outing, with no physical effort, that appeals to families, children and anyone who likes photographing birds. Many people fit it in as the last stop of the day, after snorkeling in the rivers of Bom Jardim.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
About an hour, arriving a little before sunset to see the birds fly in.
Best time
In the late afternoon, close to sunset, when the macaws and other birds return to the buriti palms.
How to get there
It is in the district of Bom Jardim, in Nobres (MT), near the village. You drive to near the lagoon and walk the rest of the way on a short trail. Day trips from Cuiabá often end at the lagoon.
Tip
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens to photograph the birds, and insect repellent, because the visit is in the late afternoon. Keep quiet on the decks so you don't scare the animals.
A look at the place
Lagoa das Araras in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lagoa das Araras
Is there an entrance fee at Lagoa das Araras?
Yes. The lagoon is on private property and there is an entrance fee, with a reduced price for children.
What is the best time to see the macaws?
Late afternoon, close to sunset, when the macaws and other birds fly back in flocks to the buriti palms.
Do I need a guide or a booking?
A guide is not required. You can visit the lagoon on your own or as part of tours run by local agencies.
Can I bring kids?
Yes. The trail to the decks is short and flat, and the outing is easy for children and older visitors.
Where is Lagoa das Araras?
In the district of Bom Jardim, in Nobres (MT), near the village with the pousadas (guesthouses) and snorkeling tours.