A jaguar in the Pantanal | Brazil | South America
FROM: €4,025 pp

Discover the wild landscapes of the Pantanal on this 8-day private tour that begins with guided sightseeing and free time in Rio de Janeiro. After taking in Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, fly to Cuiaba, gateway to the world's largest wetland. Spend 5 nights at an eco-lodge in the Pantanal, with an array of included activities. Go in search of jaguar along the riverbanks on a boat safari, canoe your way to a family of giant river otters, fish for piranhas and go horseback riding in this diverse landscape, plus so much more.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Standard
Superior
Deluxe
Hotels

Trip Highlights

Rio de Janeiro - Enjoy a full day of guided sightseeing, including a visit to Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and more, and spend a free day relaxing on Copacabana Beach or joining optional excursions
Clarinho River - Paddle downstream to spot curious giant river otters and capybara, and fish for piranhas
Jaguar Safari - Hope to spot the Pantanal's elusive top predator on an included six hour boat safari
Pantanal - Spend five days exploring the world's largest wetland, with included activities and the chance to spot wildlife
Horseback riding - Ride a hardy Pantaneiro horse through flooded parts of the Pantanal that cannot be reached on foot

Included

7 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners
Services of expert bi-lingual (English, Spanish and Portuguese) speaking local guides for included sightseeing
Transportation in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, including safari vehicles in the Pantanal
Program of activities at Pantanal eco-lodge, including jaguar safari, horseback riding, guided hiking, canoe trip to see giant river otters and more (subject to change dependent on weather conditions)
2 nights standard hotel in Rio de Janeiro & 5 nights Pantanal eco-lodge (upgrade available)
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 and airport departure transfer on day 8
Guided sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro

Not Included

International flights and visas
Entrance fees - unless specified in the Inclusions
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Pantanal Conservation Fee - USD $149 per person (to cover environmental maintenance and fund conservation projects in the Pantanal)
Domestic flight from Rio de Janeiro to Cuiaba (we can assist with booking these flights)

Itinerary

Day 1

Rio de Janeiro

Welcome to Rio! On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel by an English-speaking driver. The rest of your first day is at leisure.

Tour Style: The included Rio de Janeiro city tour is conducted on a shared basis, meaning you will be joined by other travellers. For your 5-night stay at an eco-lodge in the Pantanal, you will also be joined by other travellers and included activities and excursions will be on a shared basis. Your tour in Rio de Janeiro will be led by a bi-lingual (English & Spanish speaking) local guide, whilst an English-speaking local team of experts will look after you in the Pantanal.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro

Day 2

Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing

This morning, you will be collected from your hotel at approximately 8:00 for a full day of included sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro. You will start by riding the train to the summit of Corcovado Mountain, passing through the tropical Tijuca Forest. You will be greeted at the top by one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Christ the Redeemer. Marvel at this incredible monument and enjoy panoramic views over Rio.

Next, you will pass by the Maracana Stadium en route to the Sambadrome and the imposing Cathedral of Saint Sebastian. You can snap a photo at the iconic Selaron Steps before enjoying an included lunch at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria. The day ends with a memorable ride on the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain. You will be transferred back to the hotel at approximately 17:30, and the evening is yours to head out and explore.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro   |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3

Rio at Leisure

Today you have a full free day for sightseeing, relaxing on Copacabana Beach or making the most of the facilities at the hotel.

Alternatively, you can join one of these available excursions:

Hiking to Pedra Bonita (private excursion): Embark on a hike to one of Rio de Janeiro’s most breathtaking viewpoints, Pedra Bonita, which is nestled in the Tijuca Forest National Park. An easy hike will take you to the summit at 695 metres, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Pedra da Gavea, the Atlantic Ocean, the Rocinha Favela, and the distant Sierra dos Dois Irmaos. To the west, you’ll see the stunning Barra da Tijuca, a rapidly developing and modern neighbourhood.

Carnival Experience (shared excursion): Go behind the scenes of Rio de Janeiro's Carnival with an exclusive tour. Visit the City of Samba, where the renowned samba schools create their magnificent floats and colourful costumes. Explore the Rio Grande Samba School Factory, gaining insight into the craftsmanship, choreography, and the dedication of everyone involved in bringing the parade to life - musicians, dancers, designers, and more. In the exhibition hall, discover the history of samba and the iconic schools that have shaped it. Try on authentic costumes for a photo opportunity, and enjoy a samba class to learn the basic dance steps. The experience concludes with a refreshing Brazilian cocktail.

Boat Tour of Guanabara Bay (private transfer, shared excursion): Enjoy a scenic 2-hour boat tour filled with captivating stories, stunning landscapes, and striking modern architecture, offering a unique perspective of Rio de Janeiro.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast

Day 4

Rio de Janeiro to the Pantanal

Rio de Janeiro - Cuiaba (Pantanal). Check out after breakfast for your included transfer to the airport. Your flight from Rio de Janeiro to Cuiaba is not included - we can assist with booking this flight.

On arrival, transfer to your eco-lodge in the remote wilderness of the Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. As you plunge into the wilderness for around 32km, you will stop whenever you come across anything of note, including natural features or interesting wildlife. Arriving at the lodge, a local guide will take you on an introductory walk around the area. See the Great Egret Lookout, an observation tower, and marvel at the clear night skies overhead, with no light pollution to dilute your view of the stars. Spend your first night in the Pantanal.

Please note: The program of activities in the Pantanal is subject to change dependent on weather conditions - the staff at the lodge will always ensure you are given the best chance to see the Pantanal's unique wildlife.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Giant River Otters & Piranhas

Your first full day of exploring the Pantanal begins with a drive towards the Clarinho River - keep your eyes peeled for capybaras, giant anteaters, coatis and all manner of birdlife. Reaching the river, embark on a canoe paddle downstream, reaching a known colony of giant river otters, or "ariranhas". Sightings cannot be guaranteed but hopefully you will be able to see these playful creatures feeding their young and swimming strongly in the current. You will also have the chance to fish for piranhas, or if you prefer, laze in a hammock on the riverbank.

Back at the lodge, trek the Howler Monkey Trail and climb an observation tower in the hope of catching a glimpse of the monkeys - you are more likely to hear them before you see them, the clue is in the name! Return to the lodge for dinner, and then head out once more after dark in search of nocturnal creatures, including the elusive jaguar...
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Pantanal on Horseback

Today you will enjoy a memorable horse-riding experience, allowing you to reach some of the more flooded regions of the Pantanal, that cannot be reached on foot or by vehicle. The Pantaneiro horse is well used to this environment, and has even adapted to eat with its nose submerged underwater. After a short ride, you will return to the lodge for lunch.

In the afternoon, trek the Rondon Trail to another observation tower, this one in full view of the impressively large nest of the jabiru stork.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Jaguar Safari

Spotting the Pantanal's top predator requires a keen eye, patience, and a lot of luck. You will be given the best chance possible to spot a wild jaguar today, as you embark on a 6-hour safari in the Pantanal, home to one of the biggest and most stable jaguar populations in the world.

Leaving the lodge after breakfast, you will make the 2.5 hour drive towards the Cuiaba River. Here, a known jaguar hotspot, you will board a boat to spend the day searching for this elusive big cat along the riverbanks. Listen carefully for its coughing roar, and keep your eyes fixed on the bank. A packed lunch is provided, and after hopefully spying a jaguar, you return to the lodge at around 17:00 for a final evening.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Cuiaba

Pantanal - Cuiaba. If you wish, rise early to hear the awakening of the Pantanal at dawn. You leave the lodge after breakfast, returning to the airport in Cuiaba, where your touring arrangements come to an end. From Cuiaba, you can fly to most large Brazilian cities for your onward journey home.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

All dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Mirador Hotel, Rio de Janeiro

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Housed in a sleek glass tower, this contemporary hotel is just a 3-minute walk from Siqueira Campos metro station, a 9-minute stroll from Copacabana Beach, and 7 km from Sugarloaf Mountain. The straightforward rooms, with simple decor, come equipped with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, safes, and desks. Room service is also available. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet in a laid-back restaurant, relax in the lobby bar, and take advantage of amenities such as a rooftop pool, fitness room, and sauna.

Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge, Pantanal

Our Category: Standard   |   Regional Category: Mid Range Lodge

Located in the heart of the Pantanal, Araras Eco Lodge offers a sustainable stay deep within the Biosphere Reserve. Accommodation is in rustic rooms with a modern touch, with amenities including air-conditioning and private bathrooms. The lodge offers all manner of activities designed to help guests see some of the Pantanal's incredible biodiversity. Birdwatching, horseback riding, guided walks, canoeing and photo safaris are just some of the options. The lodge also has an outdoor pool and an onsite bar and restaurant. There are three observation towers in the grounds of the lodge, a great place for spotting some of the resident wildlife.

Itinerary

Day 1

Rio de Janeiro

Welcome to Rio! On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel by an English-speaking driver. The rest of your first day is at leisure.

Tour Style: The included Rio de Janeiro city tour is conducted on a shared basis, meaning you will be joined by other travellers. For your 5-night stay at an eco-lodge in the Pantanal, you will also be joined by other travellers and included activities and excursions will be on a shared basis. Your tour in Rio de Janeiro will be led by a bi-lingual (English & Spanish speaking) local guide, whilst an English-speaking local team of experts will look after you in the Pantanal.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro

Day 2

Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing

This morning, you will be collected from your hotel at approximately 8:00 for a full day of included sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro. You will start by riding the train to the summit of Corcovado Mountain, passing through the tropical Tijuca Forest. You will be greeted at the top by one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Christ the Redeemer. Marvel at this incredible monument and enjoy panoramic views over Rio.

Next, you will pass by the Maracana Stadium en route to the Sambadrome and the imposing Cathedral of Saint Sebastian. You can snap a photo at the iconic Selaron Steps before enjoying an included lunch at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria. The day ends with a memorable ride on the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain. You will be transferred back to the hotel at approximately 17:30, and the evening is yours to head out and explore.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro   |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3

Rio at Leisure

Today you have a full free day for sightseeing, relaxing on Copacabana Beach or making the most of the facilities at the hotel.

Alternatively, you can join one of these available excursions:

Hiking to Pedra Bonita (private excursion): Embark on a hike to one of Rio de Janeiro’s most breathtaking viewpoints, Pedra Bonita, which is nestled in the Tijuca Forest National Park. An easy hike will take you to the summit at 695 metres, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Pedra da Gavea, the Atlantic Ocean, the Rocinha Favela, and the distant Sierra dos Dois Irmaos. To the west, you’ll see the stunning Barra da Tijuca, a rapidly developing and modern neighbourhood.

Carnival Experience (shared excursion): Go behind the scenes of Rio de Janeiro's Carnival with an exclusive tour. Visit the City of Samba, where the renowned samba schools create their magnificent floats and colourful costumes. Explore the Rio Grande Samba School Factory, gaining insight into the craftsmanship, choreography, and the dedication of everyone involved in bringing the parade to life - musicians, dancers, designers, and more. In the exhibition hall, discover the history of samba and the iconic schools that have shaped it. Try on authentic costumes for a photo opportunity, and enjoy a samba class to learn the basic dance steps. The experience concludes with a refreshing Brazilian cocktail.

Boat Tour of Guanabara Bay (private transfer, shared excursion): Enjoy a scenic 2-hour boat tour filled with captivating stories, stunning landscapes, and striking modern architecture, offering a unique perspective of Rio de Janeiro.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast

Day 4

Rio de Janeiro to the Pantanal

Rio de Janeiro - Cuiaba (Pantanal). Check out after breakfast for your included transfer to the airport. Your flight from Rio de Janeiro to Cuiaba is not included - we can assist with booking this flight.

On arrival, transfer to your eco-lodge in the remote wilderness of the Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. As you plunge into the wilderness for around 32km, you will stop whenever you come across anything of note, including natural features or interesting wildlife. Arriving at the lodge, a local guide will take you on an introductory walk around the area. See the Great Egret Lookout, an observation tower, and marvel at the clear night skies overhead, with no light pollution to dilute your view of the stars. Spend your first night in the Pantanal.

Please note: The program of activities in the Pantanal is subject to change dependent on weather conditions - the staff at the lodge will always ensure you are given the best chance to see the Pantanal's unique wildlife.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Giant River Otters & Piranhas

Your first full day of exploring the Pantanal begins with a drive towards the Clarinho River - keep your eyes peeled for capybaras, giant anteaters, coatis and all manner of birdlife. Reaching the river, embark on a canoe paddle downstream, reaching a known colony of giant river otters, or "ariranhas". Sightings cannot be guaranteed but hopefully you will be able to see these playful creatures feeding their young and swimming strongly in the current. You will also have the chance to fish for piranhas, or if you prefer, laze in a hammock on the riverbank.

Back at the lodge, trek the Howler Monkey Trail and climb an observation tower in the hope of catching a glimpse of the monkeys - you are more likely to hear them before you see them, the clue is in the name! Return to the lodge for dinner, and then head out once more after dark in search of nocturnal creatures, including the elusive jaguar...
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Pantanal on Horseback

Today you will enjoy a memorable horse-riding experience, allowing you to reach some of the more flooded regions of the Pantanal, that cannot be reached on foot or by vehicle. The Pantaneiro horse is well used to this environment, and has even adapted to eat with its nose submerged underwater. After a short ride, you will return to the lodge for lunch.

In the afternoon, trek the Rondon Trail to another observation tower, this one in full view of the impressively large nest of the jabiru stork.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Jaguar Safari

Spotting the Pantanal's top predator requires a keen eye, patience, and a lot of luck. You will be given the best chance possible to spot a wild jaguar today, as you embark on a 6-hour safari in the Pantanal, home to one of the biggest and most stable jaguar populations in the world.

Leaving the lodge after breakfast, you will make the 2.5 hour drive towards the Cuiaba River. Here, a known jaguar hotspot, you will board a boat to spend the day searching for this elusive big cat along the riverbanks. Listen carefully for its coughing roar, and keep your eyes fixed on the bank. A packed lunch is provided, and after hopefully spying a jaguar, you return to the lodge at around 17:00 for a final evening.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Cuiaba

Pantanal - Cuiaba. If you wish, rise early to hear the awakening of the Pantanal at dawn. You leave the lodge after breakfast, returning to the airport in Cuiaba, where your touring arrangements come to an end. From Cuiaba, you can fly to most large Brazilian cities for your onward journey home.
Breakfast

Itinerary

Day 1

Rio de Janeiro

Welcome to Rio! On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel by an English-speaking driver. The rest of your first day is at leisure.

Tour Style: The included Rio de Janeiro city tour is conducted on a shared basis, meaning you will be joined by other travellers. For your 5-night stay at an eco-lodge in the Pantanal, you will also be joined by other travellers and included activities and excursions will be on a shared basis. Your tour in Rio de Janeiro will be led by a bi-lingual (English & Spanish speaking) local guide, whilst an English-speaking local team of experts will look after you in the Pantanal.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro

Day 2

Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing

This morning, you will be collected from your hotel at approximately 8:00 for a full day of included sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro. You will start by riding the train to the summit of Corcovado Mountain, passing through the tropical Tijuca Forest. You will be greeted at the top by one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Christ the Redeemer. Marvel at this incredible monument and enjoy panoramic views over Rio.

Next, you will pass by the Maracana Stadium en route to the Sambadrome and the imposing Cathedral of Saint Sebastian. You can snap a photo at the iconic Selaron Steps before enjoying an included lunch at a traditional Brazilian churrascaria. The day ends with a memorable ride on the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain. You will be transferred back to the hotel at approximately 17:30, and the evening is yours to head out and explore.
Overnight: Rio de Janeiro   |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3

Rio at Leisure

Today you have a full free day for sightseeing, relaxing on Copacabana Beach or making the most of the facilities at the hotel.

Alternatively, you can join one of these available excursions:

Hiking to Pedra Bonita (private excursion): Embark on a hike to one of Rio de Janeiro’s most breathtaking viewpoints, Pedra Bonita, which is nestled in the Tijuca Forest National Park. An easy hike will take you to the summit at 695 metres, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Pedra da Gavea, the Atlantic Ocean, the Rocinha Favela, and the distant Sierra dos Dois Irmaos. To the west, you’ll see the stunning Barra da Tijuca, a rapidly developing and modern neighbourhood.

Carnival Experience (shared excursion): Go behind the scenes of Rio de Janeiro's Carnival with an exclusive tour. Visit the City of Samba, where the renowned samba schools create their magnificent floats and colourful costumes. Explore the Rio Grande Samba School Factory, gaining insight into the craftsmanship, choreography, and the dedication of everyone involved in bringing the parade to life - musicians, dancers, designers, and more. In the exhibition hall, discover the history of samba and the iconic schools that have shaped it. Try on authentic costumes for a photo opportunity, and enjoy a samba class to learn the basic dance steps. The experience concludes with a refreshing Brazilian cocktail.

Boat Tour of Guanabara Bay (private transfer, shared excursion): Enjoy a scenic 2-hour boat tour filled with captivating stories, stunning landscapes, and striking modern architecture, offering a unique perspective of Rio de Janeiro.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast

Day 4

Rio de Janeiro to the Pantanal

Rio de Janeiro - Cuiaba (Pantanal). Check out after breakfast for your included transfer to the airport. Your flight from Rio de Janeiro to Cuiaba is not included - we can assist with booking this flight.

On arrival, transfer to your eco-lodge in the remote wilderness of the Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. As you plunge into the wilderness for around 32km, you will stop whenever you come across anything of note, including natural features or interesting wildlife. Arriving at the lodge, a local guide will take you on an introductory walk around the area. See the Great Egret Lookout, an observation tower, and marvel at the clear night skies overhead, with no light pollution to dilute your view of the stars. Spend your first night in the Pantanal.

Please note: The program of activities in the Pantanal is subject to change dependent on weather conditions - the staff at the lodge will always ensure you are given the best chance to see the Pantanal's unique wildlife.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Giant River Otters & Piranhas

Your first full day of exploring the Pantanal begins with a drive towards the Clarinho River - keep your eyes peeled for capybaras, giant anteaters, coatis and all manner of birdlife. Reaching the river, embark on a canoe paddle downstream, reaching a known colony of giant river otters, or "ariranhas". Sightings cannot be guaranteed but hopefully you will be able to see these playful creatures feeding their young and swimming strongly in the current. You will also have the chance to fish for piranhas, or if you prefer, laze in a hammock on the riverbank.

Back at the lodge, trek the Howler Monkey Trail and climb an observation tower in the hope of catching a glimpse of the monkeys - you are more likely to hear them before you see them, the clue is in the name! Return to the lodge for dinner, and then head out once more after dark in search of nocturnal creatures, including the elusive jaguar...
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Pantanal on Horseback

Today you will enjoy a memorable horse-riding experience, allowing you to reach some of the more flooded regions of the Pantanal, that cannot be reached on foot or by vehicle. The Pantaneiro horse is well used to this environment, and has even adapted to eat with its nose submerged underwater. After a short ride, you will return to the lodge for lunch.

In the afternoon, trek the Rondon Trail to another observation tower, this one in full view of the impressively large nest of the jabiru stork.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Jaguar Safari

Spotting the Pantanal's top predator requires a keen eye, patience, and a lot of luck. You will be given the best chance possible to spot a wild jaguar today, as you embark on a 6-hour safari in the Pantanal, home to one of the biggest and most stable jaguar populations in the world.

Leaving the lodge after breakfast, you will make the 2.5 hour drive towards the Cuiaba River. Here, a known jaguar hotspot, you will board a boat to spend the day searching for this elusive big cat along the riverbanks. Listen carefully for its coughing roar, and keep your eyes fixed on the bank. A packed lunch is provided, and after hopefully spying a jaguar, you return to the lodge at around 17:00 for a final evening.
Overnight: Pantanal  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Cuiaba

Pantanal - Cuiaba. If you wish, rise early to hear the awakening of the Pantanal at dawn. You leave the lodge after breakfast, returning to the airport in Cuiaba, where your touring arrangements come to an end. From Cuiaba, you can fly to most large Brazilian cities for your onward journey home.
Breakfast

At a Glance

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Rio de Janeiro
Ends
Cuiaba
Departs
May - September
Group Size
Min 2 / Max N/A
Hotel Rating
Deluxe hotels & eco-lodge
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing
Meals
Breakfast: 7, Lunch: 4, Dinner: 4
Countries
Minimum Age
5 yrs, accompanied by an adult
Arr. Transfer
Yes
Dep. Transfer
Yes
The sweeping bay of Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro
The sweeping bay of Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro
The sweeping bay of Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro
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