Brazil - Pantanal Explorer

Brazil Small Group Tour

Tour Overview

Pantanal’ comes from the Portuguese word for swamp, and this biodiversity hotspot covers a huge area of swampland, grasslands and thick forest as large as a small European country. Travel with us and discover the incredibly rich biodiversity of the Pantanal region of Brazil.

On this intimate tour with a maximum group size of only 10, we will explore in depth through land and water-based excursions staying in two different areas of the Northern Pantanal.  After leaving Cuiabá, our first destination is the Pousada do Rio Mutum, an attractive eco-lodge boasting a lovely setting with a high focus on sustainability. Here we will enjoy walks, canoeing and horse-riding (all suitable for beginners) as well as exploring by jeep.

The second half of the trip is where we turn our attention to searching for the magnificent Jaguar as we navigate the winding and shimmering channels, using our comfortable expedition boat as base. For the wildlife enthusiast, this is an adventure not to be missed.

 

Tour Highlights

• Explore two different sections of the Northern Pantanal region

• Excellent chances of seeing the majestic Jaguar

• Observe amazing biodiversity at a leisurely pace

• Enjoy wildlife excursions travelling by land water

• Extend your trip to Brazil and add-on private arrangements to the Amazon, Iguazu Falls, or Rio de Janeiro

Tour Rating

To help our travellers choose the right tour for them we have applied a grading system of 1 to 5. Tours with a fitness level of 1 will generally be suitable for all ages and will not be particularly strenuous, whereas tours with a fitness level of 5 are likely to be physically challenging. To find out more please contact our well-travelled team who will often have first-hand experience of the destination.

Fitness

3/5

Unexplored

3/5

Culture

2/5

History

2/5

Wildlife

5/5

Tour Pace

3/5

Map + Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cuiabá

On arrival at Cuiabá airport you will be transferred to the hotel with the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight Deville Prime Cuiabá or similar – No meals or guided services.  

Day 2: Cuiabá – Pousada do Rio Mutum (approx. Driving time is 2.5 hours)

This morning you will meet your local guide and after breakfast, transfer through the Pantanal region by car to Pousada do Rio Mutum, passing through the small town of Santo Antonio do Leverger and the villages of Porto de Fora, and Mimoso. On the way to the lodge, we will look out for birds, small animals, and taking note of the landscape, and the typical buildings of the inhabitants of the Pantanal.  Following arrival at the lodge, enjoy a welcome drink, followed by check-in, lunch and a lecture as an introduction to the Pantanal region, with presentation of cartographic maps and satellite images. Later, take a short walk to observe the various species of birds and other animals that inhabit the private area of the lodge. The rest of the afternoon will be at leisure and this evening a tasty piranha broth will be served followed by typical dishes from the region. (BLD) 

Pousada do Rio Mutum Lodge

This Pousada is situated in one of the most beautiful regions of the Pantanal swamp region, 140 kilometres from Cuiaba (a 2.5-hour drive, partly via a dirt track). It consists of 22 fully air-conditioned chalets, each with a spacious bedroom, private bathroom and veranda which looks out on to a woodland park home to a huge variety of wildlife, flora and fauna. The Pousada has a restaurant that serves a varied regional buffet as well as a bar, swimming pool and souvenir shop. For the offered excursions there are Jeeps for going on safari, and canoes and motorboats for trips out along the river- the Pousada even runs a trip through the woodland on horseback.  

Sustainability at Pousada do Rio Mutum Lodge 

Sustainability is a key focus. Guests are encouraged to minimize their use of water, reuse towels, and sort their litter into the separate bins provided by the Pousada to reduce their impact on the environment. As well as this, the Pousada has a modern ecological sewage treatment system and solar powered water heating facilities; Rio Mutum is also investing in the construction of the Associação Comunitária Cuiabá-Mirim, a local community centre which aims to offer courses and activities that will facilitate greater cultural and intellectual development in the area, and promote an exchange of experiences between locals and visitors. 

Pantanal

The Pantanal straddles the borders of Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia and is the world's largest wetland region. Its plains and low scrubby forests are home to over 1000 species of bird and 300 different mammals, including tapirs, anteaters, Jabiru storks and the striking Hyacinth macaw. Concentrating on the incredibly rich northern Pantanal, we divide our time between an eco-friendly lodge and also aboard a boat, journeying deep into the Pantanal in search of the jaguar, the largest and most elusive feline in the Americas. These solitary predators, as well as being formidable opponents on land, are strong swimmers and are known to frequent the waterways we will explore. 

Day 3: Pantanal exploration

After breakfast, enjoy an ecological walk, the duration will be approximately 3 hours, to explore the unique nature, passing through wooded areas, forests and open fields in search of birds, mammals, reptiles, plants and other components of the Pantanal ecosystem. Return for lunch. This afternoon take a boat ride on the Mutum River, a duration of approximately 3 hours. In these winding waterways, besides the vegetation, we hope to observe giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis) rays (lymma Taeniura) and schools of small fish. In addition, we will be looking out for the many possible bird species on the banks. Return to the lodge for dinner.  After dinner, we head out night spotlighting by jeep or boat, for approximately 2 hours, exploring the surroundings in search of nocturnal creatures thriving in this wetland environment. 

Please Note: The walk is of an easy grade but you must be well protected against the sun and heat. Please wear wide brimmed hat and light loose clothes. The pace will be very leisurely as you will be stopping frequently when observing flora and fauna. 

Day 4: Pantanal Exploration

After breakfast, take a boat ride, a duration of approximately 3 hours, visiting a fishing village on the banks of Rio Cuiabá. This village named Cuiabá Mirim is a lovely spot marked by its simplicity and the spontaneity of its inhabitants. It is possible to interact with the native people, who exist by way of fishing and subsistence agriculture, and to appreciate their customs and peaceful coexistence with their immediate environment. This afternoon, enjoy a land safari by jeep to a village named Capoeirinha, around 15 km's from the lodge. This activity will last approximately 3 hours. During this time our focus will be to search for one of the bird species most threatened with extinction in the Pantanal: the hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus). By late afternoon, we return hoping to spot mammals and other animals on the way. Return to the lodge for dinner. (BLD) 

Day 5: Pantanal Exploration

An early start at 4:30 a.m. for a magical sunrise experience. We take to the waterways for some leisurely and very easy paddling (that can be enjoyed by all abilities) in canoes for about 1.5 hours in order to appreciate the dazzling spectacle of the awakening of nature in the Pantanal. Return to the lodge for breakfast. After breakfast for those that wish there will be a horseback riding tour (this is beginner level and no experience necessary), duration of up to 3 hours, to a typical farm on the border of Sia Mariana Bay. This path is excellent for observing local flora and fauna throughout the year. Return to the lodge for lunch and then this afternoon enjoy a 3 hour cruise down the Mutum River up to the Sia Mariana bay (8 km extension in the North/South direction). During this time, we will explore the banks of the bay and the channel connecting both the Sia Mariana bay and Chacororé bay. Throughout the year, one can observe different species of birds, reptiles and other animals. Stop for sunset and piranha fishing*. On the way back to the lodge look out for nocturnal species as we spotlight in search for animals. (BLD) 

* The piranha fishing occurs in the months of February to September. In the period from October 1 to January 31, it is prohibited to fish in rivers, lakes and bays of Mato Grosso, because it is the breeding period. 

Note: For clients that do not wish to canoe or horse ride alternative activities can be arranged but the guide will stay with the main group.  

Day 6: Pousada do Rio Mutum – Porto Jofre (Approx. driving time 4.5 hours)

After breakfast, check out and then transfer by boat to Porto Cercado (approx. 3 h) with a photo stop at Ninhal Porto da Fazenda, home to the nests of over 1000 birds of different species (great white egrets, jabiru storks, American wood storks, cocoi herons, etc.). We then transfer by air-conditioned vehicle to Porto Jofre (approx. 4.5 h, 40 km paved road + 147 km unpaved road), stopping for lunch along the way. Later we board our home for the next 4 nights, to begin the next part of this enthralling wildlife adventure. This evening, the boat will navigate up the Cuiabá River for approx. 1.5 hours to reach the location where the first jaguar spotting opportunities of this trip will take place. Overnight on board. (BLD) 

Days 7 to 9: Pantanal Exploration by boat

For the next 3 days you will enjoy two boat tours (before and after lunch, respectively) in search of the legendary jaguar and other magnificent species such as giant river otters, caimans, and capybaras, on the rivers Cuiabá, Piquiri, Três Irmãos and also some of the smaller creeks. All meals are served on the boat. Overnight on board. (BLD) 

Note: The boat excursions are usually from 7 – 11am and from 2pm – 6pm so a total of 8 hours per day.  

Rio Mutum boat

The comfortable boat by Rio Mutum is anchored in a strategic area of Porto Jofre, a primary place to spot jaguars and other species of animals that inhabit the Pantanal. The boat offers 8 double cabins with single box beds, air conditioning, TV and private bathroom. The restaurant serves regional food and the panoramic deck is the best area for a barbecue.  The tours for wildlife spotting are done every day in speed boats with 90HP engines and capacity for 9 passengers each.  

Day 10: Porto Jofre – Cuiabá (Approx. driving time is 5 hours) 

After breakfast, check out and transfer back to Cuiabá via Poconé, an overall journey time of around 5 hours. On arrival the rest of the day is at leisure with no excursions arranged. Overnight Deville Prime Cuiabá or similar (B)  

Day 11: Departure from Cuiabá 

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)  

Please note that onward arrangements on a private basis can be arranged throughout Brazil to places such as the Amazonas region, Iguazu Falls and Rio de Janeiro. Please contact us for details.

 

Tour Inclusions

Arrival and departure transfers

Overland transport throughout with professional driver

All accommodation 

Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader

Meals as listed
B – Breakfast
L – Lunch
D – Dinner

Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary

Tour Exclusions

International flights (contact us for expert advice and a quote)

Any airport taxes

Travel Insurance

Visa - when required

Drinks

Items of personal nature

Tips (Discretionary)

Feedback from our Travellers

  • Mark was always very helpful and was able to answer any questions that I had. The accommodation was outstanding and the staff really went above and beyond to help me when the airline lost my case. They were very knowledgeable and I truly had an amazing experience. I was lucky enough to be the only passenger on the house boat and I had my own guides. This was really good value for money. Very well organised, lots of information to support you with your trip. Fantastic accommodation and an overall range of activities arranged to get many different experiences. Thank you for organising such a wonderful trip.

    Miss Clare Hopkinson, UK

Foreign Office Travel Warnings

Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories. 

We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to the parts of Brazil that we visit on this tour. Please feel free to contact us should you have any specific concerns or would like to know in detail what measures are being taken to ensure visits remain trouble free and without incident.  

It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.

Visa Information

At the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals do not require a visa for a tourist visit to Brazil. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.

British Nationals - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice 

US Nationals - travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html 

Australian Nationals - www.smartraveller.gov.au 

Other nationals should check the latest requirements with the authorities in their home country, or with the destination’s nearest embassy or consulate.

Should you require any documentation to support a visa application, such as a letter of invitation, upon request this will be provided by Undiscovered Destinations after receipt of your balance payment. 

As it is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure that they meet all entry requirements it is essential that you check the rules and any other conditions at the time of booking and again when making your balance payment. In addition, we would strongly advise that you make a final check around two weeks before your arrival. This is important as requirements can change at short notice. Undiscovered Destinations, when possible, will provide guidance about entry rules, but in the first instance please contact the relevant authorities, including the applicable embassy or consulate for assistance.

Passports

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.

We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.

For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

Vaccinations & Protection

As with travel to most parts of Latin America, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations. For a visit of less than one month you maybe advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent may also be recommended.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday. 

Local Conditions

When travelling to our destinations, many of which are underdeveloped and untouristed by mainstream tourism, a good deal of patience and a sense of humour is an important attribute. This will help you to cope with problems such as ageing or poor infrastructure and when maintenance may not be as high as we would always like. 

The choice of appropriate accommodation in some towns and cities (particularly the smaller places) can be limited, and standards of both service and maintenance can be less than polished. Guides and other service providers in some of our destinations do not always have the decades of collective practice and experience that their counterparts in more developed countries can draw upon. Although we will always try and resolve any issues as quickly as possible, on occasions there may be some shortcomings which no matter how hard we try will be unavoidable.

Essential Info

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