States: Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Goias and the Federal District.

The Center West region is the country's most sparsely populated region, with only 6% of the population, while including around 19% of the land area.

The area was, until the 1940's, the last great unexplored area on earth, and is current a strong contrast between old world and new.

The region's main attraction is the Pantanal ecological sanctuary, formed millions of years ago when a huge inland sea dried up, and which today serves as a wildlife paradise for a large variety of bird and animal life.

In sharp contrast is the country's capital and planned city of Brasilia, with modern avant garde architecture designed by Oscar Niemayer and inaugurated in 1960. Among the most impressive buildings are the Alvorada Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Congress.

The region aldo includes the picturesque national parks of Chapada dos Guimaraes and Chapada dos Veadeiros, with exuberant scenic views providing spectacular photo opportunities.