Tucked in the heart of Campo Grande, the capital of Mato Grosso do Sul, lies one of Brazil’s most remarkable urban parks: Parque das Nações Indígenas, or the Park of the Indigenous Nations. This expansive green space seamlessly blends nature, culture, and leisure, making it a central point of life in the city and a unique tourist attraction in Brazil’s Midwest.

While Mato Grosso do Sul is widely known for eco-destinations like the Pantanal and Bonito, this park offers visitors a distinct experience — one that highlights Brazil’s Indigenous heritage in an urban setting without losing touch with the region’s natural beauty.

Where Is Parque das Nações Indígenas?

Parque das Nações Indígenas is located in the northern part of Campo Grande, occupying an area of approximately 119 hectares (294 acres). It’s easily accessible from various parts of the city and is surrounded by cultural institutions, universities, residential neighborhoods, and public services.

The park was inaugurated in the late 1990s as a public initiative to create a space for leisure, sports, and the celebration of Indigenous culture, which plays a significant role in the identity of Mato Grosso do Sul.

A Tribute to Brazil’s Indigenous Peoples

The name of the park — Park of the Indigenous Nations — is not just symbolic. It honors the many Indigenous groups that have historically inhabited and continue to live in the region, such as the Guarani-Kaiowá, Terena, Kadiwéu, and Ofayé peoples.

Within the park, you’ll find several monuments and facilities that reflect Indigenous influence:

• Monument to the Indigenous Peoples: A large sculpture that pays homage to Indigenous heritage.
• Museu das Culturas Dom Bosco (Dom Bosco Museum): This ethnographic museum features one of the largest collections of Indigenous artifacts in Brazil, with over 15,000 pieces from various Indigenous nations.
• Cultural events and festivals: The park occasionally hosts Indigenous cultural fairs, featuring traditional crafts, food, music, and storytelling.

Nature in the City

Despite being located in an urban setting, Parque das Nações Indígenas is a biodiversity-rich environment. It surrounds Lake Lago do Amor (Lake of Love), a large man-made lake fed by the Prosa River, which winds through the park and contributes to its serene atmosphere.

The area is home to:

• Capybaras
• Toucans
• Seriema birds
• Native cerrado vegetation

Walking through the park, it’s common to spot these animals in their natural behavior, particularly during early morning or late afternoon.

Outdoor Activities and Leisure

Whether you’re a tourist visiting for the first time or a local resident, the park offers something for everyone. It is a favorite spot for sports, relaxation, and family gatherings. Some of the main activities include:

Walking and Running Trails

The park features several kilometers of paved and dirt trails, perfect for jogging, walking, or cycling. These paths are well-maintained, shaded in many areas, and loop around scenic parts of the lake and open grasslands.

Sports Facilities

• Soccer fields
• Skate park
• Basketball courts
• Open gym equipment stations
• Bike lanes

The park also features dedicated spaces for outdoor yoga, capoeira, and dance classes, often held on weekends or during city-sponsored health initiatives.

Picnic Areas and Playgrounds

Family-friendly zones with playgrounds, picnic benches, and open lawns make it ideal for spending the day outdoors. Many residents come here to relax with hammocks, musical instruments, and homemade lunches — creating a warm, community vibe.

Cultural and Artistic Attractions

Besides the Dom Bosco Museum, the park is surrounded by other cultural landmarks worth exploring:

• Museum of Contemporary Art (MARCO): Featuring works by Brazilian and international artists, often focusing on regional themes and social commentary.
• Pavilion for Cultural Events: A space frequently used for live performances, exhibitions, and open-air theater.
• Amphitheater: Occasionally hosts concerts and local productions under the open sky.

The integration of nature and culture is what makes Parque das Nações Indígenas stand out among urban parks in Brazil.

Safety and Accessibility

The park is well-maintained and considered one of the safest public spaces in Campo Grande, with frequent patrols and cameras in strategic locations. The main entrance areas are paved and accessible, making it suitable for people with reduced mobility, elderly visitors, and families with strollers.

Night visits are also common, as the park is open until 9 or 10 PM, depending on the season, and is partially lit at night — especially around main trails and cultural centers.

Local Food and Artisanal Markets

Though the park itself does not host permanent restaurants, food trucks and artisanal markets often set up shop near the entrances or during special events. You can find:

• Freshly made tapioca (a Brazilian crepe)
• Tereré (cold yerba mate tea, traditional in the region)
• Handmade jewelry and crafts from local artisans
• Indigenous woven baskets and wood carvings

Supporting these vendors not only provides visitors with delicious and meaningful souvenirs but also helps sustain the local economy and craftspeople.

Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, the park hosts environmental awareness campaigns, Indigenous heritage celebrations, and music and art festivals. These events are promoted by the municipal government and cultural institutions like SECC (State Secretariat of Culture and Citizenship).

If you’re planning a visit, it’s a good idea to check local calendars or tourism websites for upcoming public events that might enrich your experience.

How to Visit

Parque das Nações Indígenas is located about 15 minutes by car from Campo Grande International Airport (CGR) and is also accessible by bus and taxi. There is no entrance fee, and most facilities are free to the public.

If you’re staying in Campo Grande, the best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is more active.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

While many tourists overlook urban attractions in favor of Brazil’s beaches or wild regions, Parque das Nações Indígenas offers a peaceful yet dynamic alternative. It’s an ideal stop for travelers looking to:

• Experience Indigenous culture in a respectful and informative setting
• Enjoy physical activities in a safe and beautiful environment
• Observe native flora and fauna within city limits
• Learn more about Brazil’s biodiversity and multicultural identity

It also provides a window into how modern Brazil coexists with its natural roots and ancestral heritage — a narrative rarely told in mainstream travel guides.

A Park That Reflects the Soul of Mato Grosso do Sul

More than just a green space, Parque das Nações Indígenas is a mirror of Mato Grosso do Sul’s soul — inclusive, natural, proud of its roots, and open to the world. Whether you’re stopping by for a quiet walk, a cultural tour, or a full-day family adventure, this urban gem offers depth and tranquility in equal measure.

Next time you’re in Brazil’s Midwest, make sure to experience this unique blend of nature, history, and community. You’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll take with you a deeper understanding of Brazil’s heartland.