Located in the northern region, Tocantins is Brazil’s youngest state. It was created in 1989 after it separated from its southern neighbour, Goiás.

The state’s name refers to the river that runs through its centre. Its name itself is taken from an indigenous tribe that lived in the region when the first Portuguese settlers arrived. The indigenous population in the state today is divided into seven different ethnicities, totalling roughly 10,000 people. They preserve their way of life and traditions with dances and religious festivals.

The economy is based on commerce, agriculture (rice, corn, beans, soya, watermelon) and livestock.

Tocantins is noteworthy for its splendid rivers and highlands.

The state capital, Palmas, was planned from scratch and offers an excellent overall quality of life. The city lake, 180km long, is a popular spot for those looking to refresh themselves from the dry, hot climate and is also a great fishing area.

The state includes Bananal, the largest river island in the world. For much of the year, the island remains submerged under the river Araguaia, and consequently, it is very diverse in its wildlife. It is also a meeting point between the Amazon Rainforest and the Cerrado.

For ecotourism enthusiasts, Jalapão State Park is picture-perfect. Its trees with twisted branches and crystalline rivers stretch over a landscape of dunes, tablelands, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The park is also popular amongst those seeking adventure and is a good place for abseiling, climbing, sand surfing, and canoeing.

Tocantinense gastronomy is influenced by indigenous river-fishing culture and neighbouristates’es’ traditions. Among the most famous local delicacies are Arroz Cirigado, Arroz com Pequi, Polvilvho biscuits, Feijão tropeiro, Galinhada, Pamonhada, Peixe na Telha, Tigelada de Guariroba, and Tocantinense banana desert.

With natural attractions and a strong differential in preserving Indigenous culture, Tocantins is one of Brazil’s least well-known states. Thanks to the extraordinary diversity of Brazil’s natural delights, it has plenty of potential to become a fantastic tourist destination.