Pantanal
★ 4.9🇧🇷 CuiabaSuggested visit 3-4 daysBest season July to October, the dry season, when wildlife concentrates
NatureWildlifeWetlands
The largest tropical wetland on earth, with jaguars, macaws and capybaras in extraordinary numbers.
Overview
In west-central Brazil and covering about 150,000 square kilometres, the Pantanal is the largest tropical wetland in the world. In the dry season water contracts and wildlife concentrates around what remains, making sightings unusually reliable. Jaguars, capybaras, giant otters, anteaters and hundreds of bird species are common, and the Transpantaneira road in the north is the classic drive for wildlife.
History
Long used for cattle and fishing, it became one of South America's foremost wildlife destinations as ecotourism developed in the late 20th century.
Highlights
- •Jaguar spotting along the rivers
- •Capybaras and giant otters
- •Macaws and bird colonies
- •Driving the Transpantaneira
Practical tips
- •Mosquitoes are numerous even in the dry season — bring repellent and long sleeves
- •Go at dawn and dusk; animals rest at midday
Practical information
- Best time
- July-October
- Tickets
- Wildlife packages about USD 150-300 per day
- Opening hours
- By arrangement
- Local food
- Brazilian churrasco, moqueca, farofa
- Getting around
- About two hours by road from Cuiabá to the northern gateway.
- Visa
- A visa is required; an e-visa is available with a valid US or Schengen visa.
Traveller reviews
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