The best area to stay in Mato Grosso is generally around the city of Cuiabá, particularly if you're focusing on convenient access to the Pantanal wetlands or Chapada dos Guimarães National Park.
Cuiabá itself acts as the main gateway for exploring the wider region. Hotels in the central part of the city offer good access to local restaurants, shops, and the city's airport. You'll find a range of accommodations, from comfortable business hotels to more boutique options, often with amenities like outdoor pools and high-end fitness equipment.
For those planning a Pantanal safari, staying a night or two in Cuiabá before or after your wildlife adventure is practical. It allows for easier transfers to and from the lodges deeper in the Pantanal, which are often remote and require specific transport arrangements. This is especially good for couples or solo travellers who appreciate streamlined logistics for their nature expeditions.
If your primary interest is Chapada dos Guimarães National Park, staying in the town of Chapada dos Guimarães, which is about an hour's drive from Cuiabá, offers direct access to the park's trails and waterfalls. The town itself is small but provides a pleasant base with local eateries and guesthouses.