Although Mato Grosso is now the biggest producer of soybeans in Brazil and accounts for 12% of the country's total agricultural output, it is still known as the Brazil's Wild West.

The capital Cuiaba is a frontier town. It has few historic or cultural attractions to interest travelers. However, it's a important starting point for excursions to the Pantanal and the Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimaraes.