zThe Pantanal

Cuiabá, the vibrant capital of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, is situated in almost the exact center of the South American continent! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the stylish Grand Odara Hotel. The balance of this day is yours to enjoy, relax and explore as you wish.

After breakfast and a leisurely morning, you’ll depart early this afternoon on a guided 3.5-hour journey through the shifting landscapes and deep into the Pantanal. Your destination is the Pousada do Rio Mutum, your home and base of exploration for the next three nights. Set on lush park-like grounds, our comfortable eco-lodge offers 22 air-conditioned guestrooms, each with a private terrace or balcony.

This evening, our Lodge’s experienced naturalist guides will provide more information about the included excursions and expeditions which you will enjoy during your stay.  Meals B+D

The Amazon may be better known but the Pantanal is, in many ways, a better place to encounter South America’s diverse wildlife. The dense jungle growth of the Amazon is fascinating but it can make wildlife observation more difficult. In contrast, the forests of the Pantanal are interspersed by wetlands and waterways. With wider and more open vistas, the Pantanal is ideal for birdwatching and observing a variety of animals in their natural habitat.

This morning, you’ll begin your exploration with a guided horseback riding adventure into the wetlands and forests of the Pantanal. After lunch back at the lodge, set out on the Mutum River for a photo safari – the perfect opportunity to capture the unique landscapes and wildlife of the Pantanal.  Meals B+L+D

Encompassing an area 20 times larger than the Florida Everglades, the marshes, waterways and wetland forests of the Pantanal are home to 262 fish species, 1,100 butterfly species, 80 species of mammals, 50 reptile species and more than 1,700 plant species. In fact, the Pantanal has the largest concentration of flora and fauna in the Americas and is home to fascinating species like Brazilian otters, alligators, blue macaws, parrots, toucans and Capybaras.

After breakfast, join our naturalist for a guided nature walk along the trails that surround the lodge. This afternoon, you’ll have free time to relax on your private terrace or balcony, a great opportunity to take in the tranquility and natural beauty of the Pantanal. At sunset, a guided canoe safari offers another opportunity to observe and learn more about the region’s flora and fauna. This is also the time to experience the activity of the Pantanal’s nocturnal species.  Meals B+L+D

[Note: The guided nature activities outlined and included in our itinerary are subject to adjustment based upon local weather conditions and water levels.]

You’ll want to arise early this morning for a guided boat expedition at dawn as the birds and animals of the Pantanal begin their day with the rising sun. After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a guided drive back to Cuiabá. Depending upon your onward plans and schedule, you will be taken to the airport or your hotel.  Meals B

[Note: Hotel in Cuiabá for this evening is not included but can be arranged upon request]