village · Aquidauana, MS
Piraputanga
A district about 31 km from downtown, on the banks of the Aquidauana River and surrounded by the Serra de Maracaju. It is popular for fishing, river swimming and mountain bike races.
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 Piraputanga
Piraputanga is a small district of Aquidauana, on the bank of the Aquidauana River, among the hills and sandstone cliffs of the Serra de Maracaju. It is one of the stops on the Estrada Parque de Piraputanga, the MS-450 highway, which runs through the valley between the hills and the river.
The district feels like a country village, with vacation homes, fishing spots, pousadas (guesthouses), campgrounds and restaurants serving fish dishes. Many people come from Campo Grande to spend the weekend or make a day trip.
The river is the heart of the visit: river swimming, fishing and birdwatching along the banks. Around it is a hilly landscape of cerrado (Brazilian savanna) and forest, hills such as Morro do Chapéu and Morro Azul, and caves with rock art along the Estrada Parque. The terrain also draws cyclists and trail runners.
Piraputanga is also a base for exploring the neighboring district of Camisão and Morro do Paxixi. It is a relaxed outing, good for families; the physical effort depends on the trails you choose.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
A full day for river swimming, lunch and a drive along the Estrada Parque; if you want to fish or hike, you usually stay the weekend.
Best time
In the dry season, between fall and winter, when it rains less, the dirt roads are better and the river is usually calmer; river swimming is most pleasant during the hot hours of the day.
How to get there
It is in the municipality of Aquidauana (MS), on the MS-450 highway, the Estrada Parque de Piraputanga, which links the BR-262 to the Aquidauana River valley. From Campo Grande, take the BR-262 toward Aquidauana and turn onto the MS-450. The road has paved and dirt stretches.
Tip
Before getting into the river, ask locals or at the pousadas where it is safe to swim, because the current changes with the water level. If you plan to fish, check the state fishing rules.
A look at the place
Piraputanga 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 Piraputanga
Which city is Piraputanga in?
It is a district of Aquidauana, in Mato Grosso do Sul, on the Estrada Parque de Piraputanga (MS-450), on the banks of the Aquidauana River.
Can you swim in the river at Piraputanga?
Yes, swimming in the Aquidauana River is one of the main activities. Ask locals or at the pousadas where it is safe to get in the water.
Is there anywhere to stay in Piraputanga?
Yes. The district has pousadas (guesthouses), fishing lodges, vacation rentals and campgrounds.
Can you do a day trip from Campo Grande?
Yes, day trips are common: the route is along the BR-262 and then the MS-450. To enjoy it at a relaxed pace, many people spend the weekend.
Can I bring children?
Yes. It is a quiet destination popular with families; in the river, always stay close to children, because there is a current.