Overview
Concentrating on the incredibly rich northern Pantanal in the southwest of Brazil, we divide...read more our time between two lodges, journeying deep into the wetlands in search of jaguars, the largest feline in the Americas. These solitary, elusive predators, as well as being formidable opponents on land, are strong swimmers and are known to frequent the waterways near our base in Porto Jofre.
Itinerary
The trip starts in Cuiabá, the capital of the Mato Grosso state, and we transfer to Araras Lodge. Surrounded by pristine forest, the lodge offers a range of activities designed to showcase the flora and fauna of the Pantanal, including jeep safaris, trail walks, nocturnal safaris, canoeing and horse riding. The bilingual expert naturalist at the lodge accompanies us on our excursions to truly enhance our wildlife viewing. Stay: Araras Lodge (or similar) (D).
With a very early start, we drive along the Transpantaneira road to Porto Jofre, deep in the heart of the Pantanal along the Cuiabá River. En route, we cross numerous watercourses and it can be quite bumpy. Common sightings include caiman, capybaras, deer and a large variety of birds including rheas, huge jabiru storks, macaws, egrets and spoonbills.
After a very early breakfast, we get straight onto the river having packed extra snacks from the buffet (there's no knowing when we will return!). Jaguar sightings are relatively common in this area (a high percentage of visitors staying longer than three days see at least one during their stay), but there are no guarantees when it comes to wildlife. Even if we don't spot them, we will encounter a huge array of animals and birds. Stay: Hotel Pantanal Norte (or similar) (B/L/D).
The next six days are spent in boats looking for jaguars and learning more about the delicate ecosystem of the Pantanal. The seating plan on the vessels means no‐one will be stuck in a middle seat – expect uninterrupted views and the best possibilities for wildlife observation and photography.
Although we have a boat safari each morning and afternoon, the exact length of each boat trip is determined by which animals we see. If we spot a jaguar, our timetable may go out the window as we track them and observe their behaviour. Prepare to be flexible and to spend longer than planned on the water. October is thankfully not as busy as the previous two months on the water. Stay: Hotel Pantanal Norte (or similar) (B/L/D).
This morning, we have a boat safari before returning for lunch and to pack. We then return along the Transpantaneira to Araras Lodge. Stay: Araras Lodge (or similar) (B/L/D).
After an early morning of wildlife spotting and breakfast, we return to Cuiabá Airport. We bid a fond farewell and begin our return journeys home – most likely flicking through our photos and planning which one will look best on the wall (B).
Trip Inclusions
- Embark on 14 boat trips to maximise your chances of jaguar sightings
- Improve your shots with the expert guidance of Paul Goldstein
- Explore a more off-the-beaten-path part of the Pantanal
- Enjoy wetland birdwatching
- Keep an eye out for capybaras, giant anteaters, jabiru storks and other wildlife
- 2 Superior nights (lodge), 7 Classic nights (hotels)
- Nine breakfasts, eight lunches and nine dinners included
- Travel by minibus, 4×4 safari vehicle and motorised canoe
- All breakfasts, eight lunches, nine dinners
- All transport and listed activities
- Tour leader throughout
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Enjoy thrilling animal encounters from the isles of the Galapagos to the plains of Africa. Read more
Exodus chooses their Leaders carefully. Professional, dedicated and are passionate about sharing their home countries. Read more
Wherever possible, Exodus chooses properties that are locally owned and that reflect the area you are visiting. Read more
Availability
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Exodus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Exodus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
