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Brazil

Jaguar & Wildlife Expedition in Brazil’s Pantanal – 5 Days

Track jaguars and encounter rich wildlife in South America's top big cat destination

Group Guided

Jaguar & Wildlife Expedition in Brazil’s Pantanal – 5 Days

Track jaguars and encounter rich wildlife in South America's top big cat destination

Discover Brazil’s Pantanal on this 5-day jaguar and wildlife safari, based at the renowned Araras Eco Lodge. Explore one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth through guided boat safaris, forest hikes, canoe excursions, and horseback rides. Track the elusive jaguar along the Cuiabá and Three Brothers rivers—home to the world’s highest density of wild jaguars—and encounter giant river otters, capybaras, howler monkeys, caimans, and hundreds of bird species. Led by expert naturalist guides, this immersive trip offers unforgettable wildlife viewing and authentic eco-lodge hospitality in the heart of South America.

Trip Highlights

  • Track jaguars in the wild along the Cuiabá, Piquiri, and Three Brothers Rivers
  • Stay at the sustainable and comfortable Araras Eco Lodge, deep in the Pantanal
  • Canoe along forested waterways to spot giant river otters and birdlife
  • Horseback ride through the unique wetlands with Pantaneiro guides
  • Climb observation towers for panoramic views and birdwatching
  • Enjoy guided photo safaris and night drives to spot nocturnal species
  • Witness the biodiversity of one of the richest ecosystems in the world

Travel Information

  • Start/End Airport: Cuiabá (CGB), Mato Grosso, Brazil
  • Trip Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
  • Lodging: Araras Eco Lodge
  • Season: Mid-June to Mid-November (dry season, best for jaguar sightings)
  • Group Size: Small groups with expert naturalist guides
  • Availability: On-demand, based on request – inquire for availability and custom dates
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Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & Photo Safari on the Transpantaneira

Upon arrival at Cuiabá Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your guide. Depending on your flight, departure to the lodge is at 13:20 or 17:00. The journey begins with a drive through the countryside toward Poconé, followed by a photo safari along the iconic Transpantaneira Park Road (32 km of dirt road teeming with wildlife). Upon arrival at the lodge, enjoy a welcome drink and settle in. Later, take a guided introductory walk around the property to learn about the conservation projects, ending at the 12-meter (39 ft) Great Egret Lookout Tower. After dinner, head out for a night walk under the Southern Hemisphere sky.

Meals Included: Dinner

Accomodation: Araras Eco Lodge or similar

Day 2 – Canoeing & Howler Monkey Trail

After breakfast, set out on a photo safari to the Clarinho River. Board a canoe to explore mangroves and riverine forests, home to a colony of giant river otters. Try your hand at piranha fishing before enjoying a bush lunch in the shade. Hammocks are available for a relaxing siesta. Return to the lodge for afternoon tea. Later, hike the Howler Monkey Trail to the 25-meter (82 ft) Howler Monkey Tower for sunset views. After dinner, join a night safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation: Araras Eco Lodge or similar

Note: If the Sentinela Camp is inaccessible due to weather or terrain, canoeing will take place on the Corixo River and lunch will be served at the lodge.

Day 3 – Horseback Riding & Rondon Trail Trek

After breakfast, embark on a horseback ride through diverse Pantanal terrain, including seasonally flooded areas. The native Pantaneiro horses are known for their calm temperament and adaptation to local conditions.Return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, trek the Rondon Trail to reach the 13-meter (43 ft) Jabiru Stork Tower to observe nesting storks.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation: Araras Eco Lodge or similar

Day 4 – Full Day Jaguar Safari

After an early breakfast, transfer 115 km (approx. 2.5 hrs) to the Cuiabá River region near the end of the Transpantaneira. Board a motorboat for a 6-hour safari navigating the Cuiabá, Piquiri, and Three Brothers rivers—prime jaguar territory. Search for the elusive jaguar, the third-largest feline in the world, known for its powerful bite. Enjoy a picnic-style lunch on board to maximize time on the water.Return to the Jofre region by 5pm and drive back to the lodge for dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Accomodation: Araras Eco Lodge or similar

Day 5 – Sunrise in the Pantanal & Departure

Rise early to experience the sights and sounds of the Pantanal at dawn. After breakfast, depart at 7:30 or 12:30 for the return trip to Cuiabá. Enjoy final photo stops along the Transpantaneira Park Road.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Additional Trip Info

  • 4 nights accommodation at Araras Eco Lodge or similar
  • All ground transfers to/from Cuiabá Airport (CGB)
  • All guided activities and excursions (canoeing, horseback riding, treks, photo safaris, jaguar river safari, night drives)
  • Expert bilingual naturalist guides
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
  • Entrance fees to private reserves and observation towers
  • Drinking water and welcome drink
  • Taxes and environmental fees
  • Flights to/from Cuiabá (CGB)
  • Travel insurance (required – we recommend Global Rescue or similar)
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
  • Tips for guides and lodge staff (optional, but appreciated)
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, snacks)
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