Pantanal - Land of the Jaguar

Most Inspirational Moment

We were lucky enough to see three jaguars on our departure. the first was lying on the banks in a cooler spot under a tree and sleepy at first like an oversized kitten, she then saw something she fancied eating in the water below and completely changed into the elusive hunter we know her to be. they can keep still for hours and move so slowly and with much precision it was exceptional to witness this behaviour and the respect these creatures demand.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony who is originally from the Amazon region has been leading in the Pantanal for over 20 years. His love of the wildlife here transcends through the groups. while we were all using the merlin app to identify the birds Tony was calling to them before they were even seen, Brazil's answer to Dr Dolittle.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The Dry season is June to November. there are less biting bugs during this season but they are still there. they can be avoided by using Deet, long sleeves, long trousers loose fitting and light colours. bringing a warm windproof jacket for the early morning starts is a must when flying down the paraguay river ready for your first wildlife spot of the day

Most Inspirational Moment

Our first jaguar sighting of a mother and two cubs and watching them interact. And seeing a southern tamandua on our final night and watching as it stood on its hind legs to sniff the air.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was fantastic and looked after all of us very well. His ability to spot wildlife is amazing. Including a jaguar tucked away in the shade of a tree.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just go. The Pantanal is wildlife heaven. We had 2 hours 40 minutes between our scheduled landing at Sao Paolo and departure to Cuiaba. We were a bit worried this wouldn't be enough time to collect our bags and catch the next flight, but in the end we had plenty of time and it wasn't a rush. Once we'd gone through passport control, collected our bags and gone through customs, we turned left and followed the signs to section E where the Latam desks are located. They checked the labelling on our bags was correct and put them through. Going through security for the second flight took a couple of minutes. We bought specific Brazil plug adaptors (type N) which also had two USB outlets. They worked very well at all the accommodation. Everywhere we went accepted credit cards. We took US dollars and used them for tips. But is handy to have some local currency, just in case. We took £60 worth of reias for smaller purchases.

Most Inspirational Moment

The first sighting of the Jaguar in the golden hour.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was a fabulous guide, eagle eyed as far as spotting the wildlife went, but as I had a disability he showed myself a lot of kindness and help as well.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Perhaps look at booking the flights yourself and not having such a long stopover.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing our first jaguar at the very end of our third boat trip when we were just about to go back to the lodge in the evening and had given up hope for seeing one that day. The burrowing owls won the cute prize while the Hyacinth macaws won the glamour prize!

Thoughts on Group Leader

We could not have wished for a better guide than Tony, always helpful, eagled eyed for wildlife and and an encyclopaedic knowledge of all Pantanal life, Exodus are lucky to have him. Also a mention for my fellow travellers, a small but great group of people coupled with a great guide in Tony ensured this was a trip to remember.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The dirt roads are very dusty so protection against inhaling dust could be important for some. We also had a cold Antarctic front come in the last couple of days so while temperatures were comfortable during the day it was cool at night so pack a warm fleece just in case. Also see the summary section.

Most Inspirational Moment

the amount of wildlife and habitat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

very good.

Advice for Potential Travellers

be prepared for a long wait at sao Paulo airport.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the jaguar.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was worth his weight in gold!

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would not recommend this trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

We had several jaguar encounters but the most special was a female jaguar walking along a beach in the last 15 mins of our final boat trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Juan was exceptional, he was bubbling with enthusiasm and organised as many nature excursions as time allowed, running multiple nature walks each day as well as night safaris. His knowledge of the wildlife was second to none and he was an integral part of our success rate with both jaguars and other wildlife.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The airport at Sao Paolo can be confusing so ensure you check bags in on the ground floor when booking on for Cuiaba. Not all EU or US adapters fit and so check your adapter has pins like a shaver not a large circle connecting the two pins as some airport sold ones have. You can buy an adapter at the airport in Cuiaba The hotel and both lodges are happy to take Credit Cards for payment and prefer it to cash. Long trousers and long sleeves are a good idea due to horseflies during the day / sandflies or mosquitos at night. The boat rides are often in full sun as using covers restricts viewing. There are no UK style black tea bags so take your own as hot water is provided.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing my first hyacinth macaws on the drive in to Hotel Baiazinha and then in the afternoon seeing jaguars!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Group leader was knowledgeable on the wildlife and environment but poor on keeping us updated on plans for the trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing our first jaguar

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony Rodriguez was superb. So knowledgeable, professional and a great sense of humour. He was great company and made sure everything ran smoothly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for high temperatures - it's hot out there!

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing my first Jaguar and being able to follow her for some while, whilst not causing her any concern. Seeing the other animals and birds was also wonderful.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I have been on trips with Paul before, so I know what to expect(mostly!). As I have said before,but it is worth repeating, no one works harder , or is more committed to his clients than Paul. An excellent leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure that you have checked the medical advice available on line both for vaccinations and prescription drugs. and take the appropriate medicines.On photographic trips be totally prepared to put in hours.