2 September 2027 – 11 days
Register for 2027 and we will contact when confirmed prices are available
Embark on an immersive journey into South America’s most spectacular wildlife system, the Pantanal. Step into the world’s largest tropical wetland, offering close encounters with jaguars, giant river otters, marsh deer and one of the richest bird populations on Earth.
During this adventure, limited to just 11 guests, you will explore three distinct locations across the northern and southern Pantanal, fully immersing you in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. From nature walks and 4x4 safaris to boat rides and canoe excursions, each journey offers a fresh perspective on the region’s flooded marshes, dry islands, savannas and the incredible wildlife that calls them home.
This expedition has been carefully designed around Pantanal’s prime wildlife hotspots, ensuring the best possible encounters with its extraordinary creatures. Species calling this region home include Brazilian tapir, capybara, giant armadillo, giant river otter, maned wolf, caiman and the ultimate prize for any wildlife enthusiast: the elusive jaguar.
Accompanying you are expert naturalists and scientists who interpret the region’s hydrology, food webs and wildlife adaptations. You will learn from them how seasonal flooding shapes biodiversity, why predator densities are so high and how climate and conservation influence the Pantanal’s future.
This expedition is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone eager to understand ecosystems in action. It suits those who want immersive field experiences paired with clear scientific insight, rather than a traditional sightseeing tour.
In partnership with Natural Habitat Adventures.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL
Arrive in São Paulo and transfer to a boutique hotel in the stylish Jardins district.
São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and the economic powerhouse of South America, home to more than 12 million people and one of the most diverse populations in the world. Founded in 1554, it has grown into a global centre for finance, industry and culture.
In the evening, prepare for your adventure with a welcome dinner, sampling Brazil’s vibrant cuisine as you meet fellow travellers and tour leader.
DAY 2: SÃO PAULO TO CUIABÁ, NORTHERN PANTANAL
You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cuiabá, which takes around 2 hours. You will be met on arrival and transferred by road to Araras Ecolodge in the northern Pantanal taking around 2 and a half hours.
The northern Pantanal is one of the most pristine and wildlife-rich regions of South America, forming part of the world’s largest tropical wetland and a UNESCO-listed biosphere. Defined by seasonal flooding, its rivers, grasslands and forested islands support extraordinary biodiversity, including one of the highest densities of jaguars on Earth, as well as giant river otters, tapirs, caimans and hundreds of bird species.
The lodge’s location offers a first glimpse of the Pantanal’s extraordinary biodiversity. On arrival, explore the surrounding trails and wetlands, home to caiman, capybara, giant river otters and over 650 bird species.
DAY 3: NORTHERN PANTANAL EXPLORATION
Begin with a guided morning nature walk accompanied by expert naturalists. Search for elusive species such as the giant armadillo, while macaws, herons, toucans and raptors which showcase the region’s remarkable birdlife and ecological complexity.
In the afternoon, venture out on a 4x4 safari across marshes, savannas and forests, before you head out on a night drive uncovering the Pantanal’s nocturnal world. Caimans, owls and other night-active species demonstrate how life here is finely tuned to this ever-changing landscape.
DAY 4: NORTHERN PANTANAL TO PORTO JOFRE
After a sunrise walk, travel along the scenic Trans-Pantanal Highway to the remote wetlands of Porto Jofre, one of the world’s best places to observe jaguars in the wild. The journey itself offers opportunities to spot wildlife and understand how roads intersect with fragile floodplain ecosystems.
In the afternoon, explore the rivers by open skiff, scanning forested banks for jaguars and other predators. Along the way, learn how these apex hunters shape the Pantanal’s food web and why their presence is a powerful indicator of ecosystem health.
DAYS 5 AND 6: PORTO JOFRE JAGUAR AND WILDLIFE SAFARIS
Spend the day on morning and afternoon boat excursions through the heart of jaguar country, scanning riverbanks and backwaters for jaguars, giant river otters, caiman, capybara and flashes of colour from toucans overhead. At every turn, waterbirds crowd the channels and lagoons, revealing how life concentrates around water in this vast floodplain.
As you move through the wetlands, witness the Pantanal in motion – an ecosystem transformed by seasonal floods that drive migrations, hunting strategies and breeding cycles.
DAY 7: PORTO JOFRE TO SOUTHERN PANTANAL AND TRANSFER TO CAIMAN ECOLOGICAL REFUGE
Fly via private charter plane to the southern Pantanal and check in at the Caiman Ecological Refuge, a sustainable cattle ranch and private conservation area.
The northern and southern Pantanal are part of the same vast wetland system, but they differ in access, landscape and wildlife experience. The southern Pantanal is more open and accessible, with expansive floodplains, savannas and lakes connected by dirt roads and traditional cattle ranches. Wildlife viewing is often easier due to flatter terrain and open habitats, with frequent sightings of caimans, capybaras, marsh deer, giant anteaters and birds. It also offers a stronger cultural element, blending ranching traditions with conservation and eco-lodges.
In the afternoon, head out on your first excursion to explore the wooded savannas, streams and seasonal channels on a guided wildlife drive, keeping an eye out for jaguars and other elusive species.
DAYS 8 AND 9: SOUTHERN PANTANAL EXPLORATION
Over the next two days enjoy nature walks and 4x4 safaris guided by local experts. Visit the Onçafari Jaguar Project and gain firsthand insight into one of South America’s most successful conservation initiatives. Through scientific monitoring, habitat protection and community engagement, Onçafari has transformed the Pantanal into a global model for big-cat conservation. By habituating jaguars to the safe presence of vehicles and promoting coexistence with local ranchers, the project has significantly increased reliable jaguar sightings while supporting long-term research, education and sustainable tourism that directly benefits wildlife and local communities.
Enjoy evenings under the starry Pantanal sky, with optional telescope viewing and a traditional Pantaneiro cowboy dinner around the campfire.
DAY 10: SOUTHERN PANTANAL TO CAMPO GRANDE AND RETURN TO SÃO PAULO
Rise with the sounds of the southern Pantanal before flying via private charter to Campo Grande, then onward to São Paulo.
In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate your journey through the world’s richest tropical wetland and reflect on its unforgettable wildlife.
DAY 11: SÃO PAULO DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport for your departure.
If time permits, explore São Paulo independently. Visit the São Paulo Museum of Art or stroll through Trianon Park to spot native palms, Pau Brasil trees and local birds.
