Pantanal - Jaguars & Wildlife
Photo Adventure

Activity level - Easy

Participants should be able to walk about 1 mile unassisted during field sessions, carrying their photography gear. Most locations are close or we will be photographing out of a boat.  

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Itinerary

Please note: The daily schedule may vary slightly depending on weather and wildlife activity. We’ll head out early and late each day to take advantage of the best light and most active wildlife.

 

Day 1 – May 30: Arrival in Cuiabá

Arrive in Cuiabá, the gateway to the Pantanal, and transfer to your hotel. Settle in and prepare for the adventure ahead. Meals on your own.
Overnight in Cuiabá

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Day 2 – May 31: Journey into the Pantanal

After breakfast, we set out on a scenic three-hour transfer into the heart of the Pantanal. Our lodge offers a first taste of this unique wilderness, with opportunities to encounter wildlife found almost nowhere else so readily.

In the evening, you’ll experience the Ocelot Hide, the best place in the world to see these elusive cats. With luck, one may appear just a few meters away, offering remarkable photo opportunities in natural light.
Overnight at Pantanal Lodge

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Day 3 – June 1: Into Jaguarland

We travel along the legendary Transpantaneira, stopping often to watch wildlife along the way. At Porto Jofre, tame Hyacinth Macaws—the largest parrots on Earth—often allow us to approach within just a few meters.

From there, we board our boat and head upriver to our floating lodge, moored on the banks of the Piquirí River. Set in the most Jaguar-rich section of the Pantanal, this lodge offers unmatched access to South America’s top predator.

In the afternoon, enjoy your first Jaguar boat safari, followed by a wildlife lecture after dinner.

Overnight aboard floating lodge

Days 4–6 – June 2–4: Jaguarland Immersion

For the next three days, we’ll focus on boat-based wildlife safaris in prime Jaguar territory. Morning and afternoon excursions give us excellent chances of seeing Jaguars patrolling the riverbanks, Giant Otters playing in the water, and a dazzling array of birdlife.

Our lodge’s prime location means we can respond instantly to sightings, often reaching them before other boats. This gives us greater opportunities for private, intimate encounters.

Evenings feature short, engaging talks from resident naturalists, covering Jaguars, Giant Otters, Caimans, and more.
Overnight aboard floating lodge

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Day 7 – June 5: Return to Pantanal Lodge

After a final morning safari, we journey back downriver toward Porto Jofre, where Hyacinth Macaws and Toco Toucans often provide close encounters. From here, we return to Pantanal Lodge.

That afternoon, embark on a serene Pixaim River Safari, exploring a private stretch of river teeming with wildlife protected for decades. After dark, we may search for Ocelots or even a Tapir.
Overnight at Pantanal Lodge

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Day 8 – June 6: Sunrise & Departure

Wake early to climb the lodge’s wildlife observation towers and capture sunrise over the Pantanal. After breakfast, we transfer back to Cuiabá, arriving with time to connect to your onward flight.

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Extension – Bonito

 

Day 1 – June 6, 2026: Arrival in Campo Grande

Arrive in Campo Grande, the gateway to southern Brazil’s hidden wildlife treasures. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner together.
Overnight at hotel in Campo Grande.

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Day 2 – June 7, 2026: Campo Grande to Bonito

After breakfast, we journey four hours by road to Bonito, a town renowned for its crystal-clear rivers and vibrant wildlife. Lunch is included upon arrival, followed by time to relax—perhaps a refreshing swim or a siesta by the pool.

In the late afternoon, we head out into private pastures framed by rolling grasslands and gallery forest. This rich habitat is the best place to search for one of Brazil’s most remarkable mammals: the Giant Anteater. With luck, we’ll spot this incredible creature moving gracefully through the fields. Dinner included.

Overnight at our hotel in Bonito.

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Day 3 – June 8, 2026: Macaw Canyon & Giant Anteaters

At sunrise, we visit the awe-inspiring Macaw Canyon (Buraco das Araras), where Scarlet Macaws soar and wheel against the red cliffs—a spectacle of color and sound unlike anywhere else. After lunch, we return to the private pastures for another opportunity to observe Giant Anteaters. On some outings, more than ten may be seen in a single afternoon. Dinner included.
Overnight at our hotel in Bonito.

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Day 4 – June 9, 2026: Bonito Adventures

This morning we head to Estância Mimosa, a private reserve where forest trails lead to waterfalls and pools perfect for exploration and photography. Lunch is included. The afternoon is at leisure before dinner on your own.
Overnight at our hotel in Bonito.

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Day 5 – June 10, 2026: Bonito to Campo Grande

After breakfast, transfer back to Campo Grande for your onward flight. The drive takes 3.5 to 4 hours; please allow an additional 1.5 hours at the airport when arranging departure flights.

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We recommend you book your flight home directly from Campo Grande. More details and guidance will be provided to registered participants.