About the Pantanal
Pantanal is one of the largest freshwater wetlands in the world. Located in western Brazil, visitors flock here to experience the amazing and diverse wildlife. You can expect to see one of the 10 million Caiman that live in the waters. Another creature that makes its home in the Patanal is the giant rat-like animal called the Capybara. Keep an eye out for the Giant River Otter as he hunts for is favorite dinner, the Red-bellied Piranha. A lucky few will get to see a Jaguar as there is very little forest cover out on the Patanal.
When to Visit
The best time to see the most wildlife is June through October. Birds are especially abundant including the diminutive hummingbird and the endangered Hyacinth Macaw. There are also plenty of parakeets and parrots to see. Visitors can tour the wetlands on boat, especially during the rainy season or by horseback during drier times. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities to enjoy.
Stay with the Cows
You can plan on staying at one of the fazendas or lodges in the area. These fazendas are actual working cattle ranches. Many limit their guests to just a few at a time so you will be able to get to know the ranch life quite well. These lodges will provide guides for hiking as well as canoe or boating expeditions and horseback rides through the wetlands.
Exciting Rainforest Tours
Visitors can also take part in photographic safaris seeking out the elusive jaguar. Or, try your hand at fishing. Night safaris enable guests to get a glimpse of the active nightlife and there are guided tours specializing in bird watching. Enjoy walks during sunrise and cruises at sunset. Silent boat trips enable visitors to get up, close and personal to much of the wildlife. Opened 4X4 trucks and SUVs also take visitors on excursions through the wetlands looking for tapirs, sloths, jaguars and anacondas.
