Northern Pantanal
- Best known for jaguar safaris
- Popular river-based wildlife viewing
- Access from Cuiabá, MT
- Transpantaneira and Porto Jofre
- Photography-focused
- Dry season highlight
The Destination
One Pantanal, Distinct Experiences
From the jaguar-rich rivers of the North to the vast ranchlands and diverse wildlife of the South, each region reveals a different face of the world's largest tropical wetland.
Comparing the regions
North and South
Southern Pantanal
- Greater diversity of lodges and habitats
- Great safaris, exclusive boat rides and vast landscapes with a low density of visitors — the sensation of having the whole place to yourself
- Access from Campo Grande, MS
- Aquidauana, Miranda and Corumbá
- Birdwatching and general wildlife
- Year-round wildlife experiences
Imagine having this entire paradise to yourself
Vast private landscapes, exclusive wildlife experiences and a profound sense of solitude define the Southern Pantanal. Enjoy private safaris, boat excursions and extraordinary encounters with nature while exploring one of the richest ecosystems on Earth, home to abundant wildlife and more than 450 species of birds.
01
A Birdwatching Haven
With 450+ recorded bird species, the Southern Pantanal is a paradise for birdwatchers. Diverse habitats and distinct regions support an impressive variety of birdlife, and combining lodges across the Pantanal provides the most complete and rewarding birdwatching experience possible.
02
At Your Own Pace
Private guided excursions allow guests to discover the Pantanal at their own pace. Whether by jeep, boat, on foot, or horseback, every experience is carefully tailored to the interests and preferences of each group.
03
Extraordinary Encounters
Every year, jaguar sightings continue to increase in this region, along with encounters with other iconic species such as giant anteaters, tapirs, giant otters, peccaries, and an abundance of wildlife. These intimate encounters create deeply personal and unforgettable experiences.
04
A Rare Sense of Space
The Southern Pantanal offers a rare sense of space, freedom and exclusivity. Vast private properties, untouched landscapes and low density of tourists, create the feeling of exploring this amazing place in complete tranquility.
Geography
The Pantanal at a glance
The lodges
Biodiversity
Influence of surrounding biomes
The Pantanal's extraordinary biodiversity is largely shaped by its strategic location at the crossroads of several major South American ecosystems. It is bordered by the Amazon Rainforest to the north, the Cerrado savannah to the east, the Chaco dry forests to the west and the Atlantic Forest to the south. The interaction between these diverse biomes enriches the Pantanal, creating one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet.
- NorthAmazon Rainforest
- EastCerrado Savannah
- WestChaco Dry Forests
- SouthAtlantic Forest
A mosaic of habitats
Pantanal regions
Far from being a single uniform landscape, the Pantanal is a mosaic of habitats shaped by rivers, soils and seasonal water cycles. Distinct regions have developed across the wetland, each offering unique scenery, wildlife opportunities and ecological characteristics. Understanding these differences helps travelers discover the area that best matches their interests and expectations.
Floods and droughts
The rhythm of the waters
The annual cycle of floods and droughts is the driving force behind life in the Pantanal. Seasonal water movements sustain the ecosystem by replenishing nutrients and creating ideal breeding conditions for countless species. Each year, the floodwaters support an abundance of fish, insects, aquatic plants and other food sources, sustaining the remarkable concentration of wildlife for which the Pantanal is renowned.
Seasons
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season (May to November) is generally considered the best period for wildlife viewing, as animals concentrate around rivers, lagoons and remaining water sources. During this time, many trees lose their foliage, improving visibility within forested areas and increasing opportunities to observe wildlife. However, each season offers unique experiences, and the Pantanal remains an exceptional destination throughout the year.
Access
How to get there
The Southern Pantanal is accessible through a network of scenic roads leading to its lodges and private reserves. Transfers can be arranged by 4WD vehicles, vans, minibuses or small aircraft, offering visitors a comfortable journey and, in some cases, spectacular aerial views of the wetlands and surrounding landscapes.
4WD Vehicles
Scenic overland transfers across ranch roads, wetlands and private reserves, ideal for reaching remote lodges with comfort and flexibility.
Vans & Minibuses
Comfortable transfers for couples, families and small groups, connecting Campo Grande and regional gateways to selected lodges.
Small Aircraft
Chartered flights can shorten longer journeys and offer unforgettable aerial views of the Pantanal's rivers, wetlands and open landscapes.
Before you travel
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes, hiking boots and sandals
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (long sleeves and long trousers recommended)
- Neutral-colored clothing for wildlife observation
- Sweater or light jacket (recommended from May to September)
- Windbreaker or lightweight rain jacket
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars and camera equipment
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunscreen
Begin here
Plan your Pantanal experience
Tell us what you hope to see, and we will design a private journey to match. We respond within one working day, in English or Portuguese.
Request a Private Journey