Trans-Pantanal MT-060 Wetlands Traverse
Brazil's legendary wetlands highway to nowhere
The Transpantaneira runs 147 kilometers from Poconé to Porto Jofre, crossing 126 wooden bridges through the heart of Brazil’s Pantanal wetlands. This isn’t a trail—it’s a lifeline carved through the world’s largest tropical floodplain, where jaguars hunt caimans and giant river otters play in roadside pools. The road ends at the Cuiabá River, where fishing boats and wildlife lodges cluster around the final bridge that never got built to complete the highway to Corumbá.
Moderate difficulty suitable for stock high-clearance vehicles, though flooding during December through March makes passage impossible. The bridges are narrow and some show their age—exercise caution with heavy rigs. Dry season (April through October) offers the best wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. No permits required, but fuel up in Poconé as there’s only one station at Pixaim. The experience: unmatched wildlife encounters and the satisfaction of completing Brazil’s most famous dirt road adventure.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 91 mi / 147 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 656 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Poconé, Mato Grosso |
| Land manager | Estado de Mato Grosso |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle handle the MT-060, or do I need a lift?
A stock 4WD with decent clearance — think Land Cruiser 70, Hilux, or Defender — handles this route fine in dry season. Lifts and lockers aren't required, but they buy you margin if you hit unexpected standing water or a soft section between bridges.
What happens to the MT-060 during wet season — is it passable?
November through March, large sections flood completely and become impassable or outright dangerous. Stick to April through October; even in shoulder months, check recent conditions from truckers or locals in Poconé before you roll out.
Do I need any permits or pay fees to drive the MT-060 through the Pantanal?
No permit is required to drive the MT-060 itself — it's a public state road managed by Mato Grosso. If you plan to enter specific private fazendas or protected reserves branching off the route, those may require prior authorization.
What's the hardest section of the route and what should I actually expect?
The stretches between Poconé and Porto Jofre where the road narrows, degrades, and sits closest to water level are the toughest — expect deep ruts, mud-slicked dirt, and wooden bridge decking that's seen better days. Go slow on the bridges, confirm planks before you commit, and watch for wildlife crossing without warning.
How far is the nearest fuel stop, and can I count on getting gas along the route?
Poconé at the north end is your last reliable fuel stop before heading south — there is nothing meaningful for 91 miles until you reach Porto Jofre, which has extremely limited services. Carry extra fuel; treat this like a remote wilderness run, not a road trip.
Trail track
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