Land of the Jaguar

Name: Land of the Jaguar
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.8 (12 reviews)

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4.8/5 from

Wildlife

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group, Private Group Adventures

Activity :

Wildlife

Activity Levels :

1 out of 7 - Leisurely

Group Size :

4 - 11

Ages :

16+

Trip Code :

WAI

Search for the largest and most elusive predator in the Americas

The Pantanal straddles the borders of Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia and is the world's largest wetland region. Its plains and low scrubby forests are home to over 1000 species of bird and 300 different mammals, including tapirs, anteaters, Jabiru storks and the striking Hyacinth macaw. Concentrating on the incredibly rich northern Pantanal in the southwest of Brazil, we divide our time between two lodges in different areas of the Pantanal, journeying deep into the Pantanal in search of the jaguar, the largest and most elusive feline in the Americas. These solitary predators, as well as being formidable opponents on land, are strong swimmers and are known to frequent the waterways we will explore.

Highlights

7 boat trips to maximise chances of Jaguar sightings
90% success in jaguar sightings to date
Explore a more off the beaten path part of the Pantanal
Wetland bird-watching
Good chances of seeing capybaras, Giant anteaters, Jabiru storks and other wildlife

Key Information

4 nights Hotel Baiazinha Lodge with en suite facilities, 3 nights Araras Lodge and 1 night hotel in Cuiaba
9 days land only / 11 flight inclusive
Travel by minibus, 4WD safari vehicle and motorised canoe

Countries visited: Brazil

What's Included

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
All accommodation (see below)
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations

Itinerary

The group flights should be arriving in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is free to relax after the long journey.

Accommodation: Slaviero Slim Hotel (or similar)

This morning we head towards the remote Paraguay River in the Pantanal. We start by driving 205kms towards the town of Caceres before continuing a further 100kms on dirt roads to our lodge located on the banks for the Paraguay River where we will spend the next 4 days exploring the region for jaguars and other wildlife.

This area is further off the beaten path and the ideal place for jaguar spotting and, with fewer visitors than other areas of the Pantanal, is also much quieter.

This afternoon we will board our small motorboats to go on our first jaguar safari exploring the river and its tributaries for the elusive big cat as well as tapirs, monkeys, macaws, anacondas, capybaras, Giant otters and any other wildlife we can find. Whilst no guarantees can be made when it comes to wildlife, there is a 95% chance of seeing jaguars.

Accommodation: Hotel Baiazinha Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We spend the next three days on morning and afternoon boat safaris looking for jaguars and other local wildlife and learning about the delicate ecosystem of the area. The exact lengths of the outings will, of course, vary depending on the sightings and you should be prepared to be flexible with the timetable. Make sure to bring all you’ll need including sun protection, insect protection, rain protection, water and, of course your cameras and/or binoculars.

Accommodation: Hotel Baiazinha Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we retrace our steps towards Caceres and on to Pocone and finally Araras Ecolodge. Surrounded by pristine forest, the lodge offers a range of activities designed to showcase the flora and fauna of the Pantanal, including jeep safaris, trail walks, nocturnal safaris, canoeing and horse riding. The lodge’s expert bilingual naturalist guides accompany us on all excursions to truly enhance our wildlife viewing.

Accommodation: Araras Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The next two days we have a full programme of activities around the lodge. Hundreds of species of bird, and dozens of mammals and reptiles have been recorded in the immediate surroundings, and if we are lucky, we will catch sight of the striking Hyacinth macaw (Portuguese: Arara jacinta) after which the lodge is named. The largest of the macaws, its dark blue plumage and the bright yellow skin around its eyes and beak make it instantly recognisable.

Accommodation: Araras Lodge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we head back to Cuiaba where the trip ends. Those on the group flights will be departing this afternoon.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Essential Info

Visa

Brazil

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Brazil. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Vaccination

Brazil

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, rabies, tuberculosis and yellow fever. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic. The risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic about the need for antimalarials.

Additionally, zika and dengue fevers, which are both spread by mosquitoes, are known risks in places visited. There are currently no vaccines or prophylaxes available; therefore, we strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Eating and Drinking

All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners are included.

All meals are included in Hotel Baiazinha Lodge and Araras Lodge. Food is likely to be a mix of dishes using a lot of local produce. The local fruit is normally very good. Meat is a staple part of the Brazilian diet, but vegetarians can be catered for throughout the trip. Please advise us at the time of booking if you have any special dietary requirements, especially since the remote nature of the places we stay means that special supplies can be difficult to obtain without prior arrangement.

Weather

The Pantanal has two clearly defined seasons. The dry season lasts from May to October, and the region experiences little rainfall at this time of year. This is generally considered to be the best time for viewing animals and birds. The wet season runs from November to May, and much of the annual rainfall occurs during these months. Temperatures are generally around 25ºC, but there can be large seasonal variations. Humidity levels during the wet season tend to be much higher than during the dry.

Weather Charts

Cuiaba

Is this trip for you?

This trip as an activity level grade of 1 and a safari rating of 5.

Although the accommodation used on this trip is of a good standard, you should note that we are in a remote area with limited access to luxuries.

The trip involves several long drives on dirt roads - these roads are generally in good condition (although sometimes bumpy) during the dry season when this trip operates, but in heavy rain journeys may be significantly delayed.

We spend much of the trip in boats, and those with seasickness should be aware that these small vessels have a relatively shallow draft which means any movement would be more noticeable than in larger vessels, though the likelihood of feeling nausea is much lower on rivers than open water.

The area’s rich wildlife also includes lots of insects such as mosquitoes so good repellent is a must. When on excursions there are specific spots where we will be able get off the boats but only accompanied by the guides. Mosquitoes are always plentiful in the Pantanal so you should come prepared with long sleeves and adequate repellent.

Deposit terms

At the time of booking, we will ask you for the standard Exodus deposit plus an extra 10% of the trip cost in order to secure your space on the departure. If for any reason we are unable to secure the space and we have to cancel the trip, you will of course receive a full refund.

Cancellation terms

Due to the nature of this holiday, this trip has slightly different cancellation charges to those listed in the standard Exodus Booking Conditions. After booking, if cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows:

Up to 61 days before departure - loss of deposit
60 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) – 100% of the holiday cost

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Christopher Witt

Reviewed September 2019

Amazing Brazil

Long journey to get to the Pantanal but worth it! Three jaguar sightings on the first trip made everyone very happy for the forthcoming adventure. Hotel Baiazinha is the perfect location for trips into the wetlands. Accommodation and food excellent and staff very friendly. Plus around the hotel so many birds. Seven boat trips was tiring in the heat, thankfully the boat has a cover. Finally saw nine jaguar sightings, some repeats, plus two giant otter encounter…….and so many birds.
Araras Pantanal Eco Lodge is a nice wind down with good accommodation. Trips out to spot wildlife are good but toucans and hyacinth macaws can be spotted in the grounds early morning!

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.

Sally Chewter

Reviewed August 2019

Brilliant

Fantastic trip – brilliant guide – great accommodation – superb wildlife sightings.
Be prepared for very high temperatures but so worth it.

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!

Suggestions

Great trip - wonderful jaguar, giant otters sightings

James Treharne

Reviewed October 2018

Land of the Jaguar report

This trip exceeded all my expectations.Seeing a Jaguar in its natural habitat was wonderful. As usual Paul worked hard with the guides to get the results that we all longed for.The accommodation was good, though the food in Porte Joffre could have been much better. I was a little disappointed with the fact that we had to pay for our luggage on the internal flight. This caused some hassle because none of the flight desk attendants spoke English and I do not speak Portuguese. A similar scenario ensued on the return flight.
This was one of the most memorable trips that I have done with Exodus and I look forward to my next one.

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.

Suggestions

I am very satisfied with Exodus Holidays. They have provide me with some spectacular moments at very reasonable cost. Through them , I have met some lovely people..

barry tylee

Reviewed September 2018

The Pantanal deliverd

This trip to the Pantanal ranks amongst the best. Yes, Jaguars are illusive but so are lots of big cats. patience and trust are required. Trust in so much that your guide will do his/her utmost to find you a jaguar. If they are there, they will find them. But while you are waiting, just observe the absolute plethora of wildlife, Birds of all sizes and colours, you might encounter a swimming Tapier or be entertained by a family of river otters. While you are travelling you might see a giant ant eater, dont be surprised to be able to see a Cayman with young on its back, or see an Anaconda curled up sleeping after a meal. There is so much to see. Beautiful Macaws, what colours. Its pure entertainment. I cant wait to return.

Most Inspirational Moment

Where does one start. For me it was all inspirational. Although I have to say, when you first see a Jaguar it a heart stopping moment. The two lodges that you will stay in are very well positioned, you are surrounded by wildlife.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was, Tony. Excellent all round. very knowledgeable, for me went the extra mile to find a Jaguar, always prepared to stop when something has been sighted.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I travelled in August. Yes this part of Brazil is in the tropics, but. It can be cold on the wide open rivers. Read the trip notes. When it says take a warm fleece. Take one and add to that a wind "shell" head cover and gloves. Once you have moved on to the next lodge, its all change, its gets very hot. be prepared for both.

Suggestions

Dont be put off, dont wait. book it.

Barbara Robert

Reviewed September 2017

Land of the Jaguar

For those interested in wildlife and the possibility of seeing a Jaguar in the wild, this trip to the Pantanal of Brazil is an affordable winner. Logistics were well coordinated, accommodations were fine though it should be noted the Jaguar House Boat is not luxurious but more than adequate for its remote location on the Paraguay River. The three nights at the very nice Araras EcoLodge were a pleasant bonus. Our guide, Tony, could not have been better. He is experienced, knowledgable and very pleasant. With his skill we had three jaguar sightings during our time on the Paraguay River. Contrary to the Exodus trip description, the majority of the time is spent scouring the river banks of the main river and its narrow channels. It was quite a long distance by small speed boat to the Taima Ecological Reserve and that was reserved only for our last day. According to Tony there are jaguars in the Reserve but they are more difficult to see and eluded us. However, we had excellent caiman, giant river otter and bird sightings. The abundance of birds in the Pantanal was extraordinary and I personally saw over 90 different species. Tony knows them all! So, if you are “into” birds and jaguars, you will be well entertained. The majority of our group of 13 were interested in photography so that was enjoyable. One goes in the dry season to spot jaguars more easily but you will not see the Pantanal flooded as depicted in many photos. One needs to go in a different season for that experience; I am already dreaming of a return trip!

Most Inspirational Moment

Spotting my first jaguar in the wild!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Outstanding. Could not have been finer. Very professional.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring a could DSLR camera with 400mm lens if possible. Lots of long shots.

Suggestions

While on the house boat, there is an option to go on a night land safari. Cost was $35 per person paid directly to the boat owner/rancher. Personally I felt it was overpriced for the experience.

David Woodhams

Reviewed September 2017

Land of the Jaguar

Overall a relatively full on experience with very little ‘down’ time. An amazing abundance of wildlife especially birds. A trip that definitely lived up to expectations.

Most Inspirational Moment

The last day on the Paraguay River when we spotted a Female Jaguar and cub on a rock adjacent to the river on our return journey from the National Park.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was an excellent guide with very good knowledge of the birds and mammals and his spotting skills were amazing

Advice for Potential Travellers

As we were travelling in the dry season it did get very hot 40C + and somewhat dusty but worth it in every way.

Suggestions

We left the UK with the hope that we would see the main targets of our visit, Jaguar and River Otter. Not only was our expectation rewarded with one sighting, but 3 groups of Otters, 4 Jaguars and the Hyacinth Macaws as well as numerous other mammals and birds. A truly wonderful experience and the stay on the houseboat was GREAT

J. Thomson

Reviewed September 2017

Land of the Jaguar - and other wildlife

The trip provided the wildlife viewing we had hoped for – five jaguars, plus giant otters, armadillos, anteater etc etc and a wide variety of bird life.

Most Inspirational Moment

Watching a jaguar cub emerge cautiously from its den before playing with its mother.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was very good at spotting and identifying wildlife, both mammals and birdlife. All the trips and transfers ran smoothly due to his involvement.

Advice for Potential Travellers

On my visit the weather was dry, sunny, and hot, up to 40ºC. It cooled to about 20º around dawn. Go prepared for a range of temperatures - check the Caceres weather forecast. The trip notes do not make it clear that at the lodge activities such as horse-riding and canoeing are part of the programme. You may wish to check that your travel insurance covers these.

Jenny Hicks

Reviewed September 2017

A great trip of two very different parts

This trip is in two parts. Four days on the Jaguar houseboat looking for jaguars, the boat’s a bit cramped and you spend all day on the river, but the sight of your first jaguar makes it all worthwhile. Then the fantastic Araras Eco Lodge, which is spacious and relaxing and the bird life is amazing! You need to be prepared for long days and you need lots of patience, but it’s definitely a fantastic experience.

Most Inspirational Moment

The sight of our first jaguar of course, as well as a mother being suckled by a young cub. But also the kingfishers, the storks, the skimmers, the sight of a potoo completely disguised in a tree - load of special moments!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was great at spotting jaguars, but I think his real passion showed through, which is birdlife. He has a great knowledge of the local wildlife and birds.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It can be windy (and cold) on the early morning boat rides, so take a fleece, sunglasses and moisturising cream. Take long trousers and 100% deet mosquito repellent as they bite through your clothes. You get so hot and dirty, but if you rinse clothes through at night they are dry by the next day. Be prepared for very long boat rides looking for jaguars (sometimes 6 hours) and you need to be patient. You may sit looking at a jaguar for a couple of hours, during which it hardly moves! The lodge is wonderful - spacious, relaxing, great food, wifi and amazing birdlife everywhere. Horse riding and kayaking and a night drive are included at the lodge and part of the Exodus itinerary. Brazilian electricity sockets have changed in the last 18 months and in hotels and the Lodge they are recessed - you need to buy an adapter locally.

Suggestions

Amazing trip - a long journey to get there and you have to rough it a bit on the houseboat, but it's definitely worth it! Exodus arranged an Iguassu Falls extension which we did before before our group trip which was fantastic - worth spending some extra time in Brazil if you can.

Liz Newman

Reviewed September 2016

When can I go back?

This was a terrific holiday, despite the weather being the coldest on record for that time of year.

Most Inspirational Moment

Predictably, seeing a jaguar for the first time.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was excellent. His knowledge of the wildlife was first rate. And he came horseriding with us on the last day!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't assume the weather is going to be hot, whatever the online sites tell you in advance. When we arrived in Cuiaba it was hot and humid - then the cloud rolled in, so thick that it sometimes looked like twilight at midday. It rained - not a lot, but if I hadn't taken a raincoat I'd have been in trouble. Going upriver into the wind was a bitterly cold experience, and everyone was wearing everything they had. Six layers! The guides had scarves round their faces, dark glasses, and woolly hats. All you see was their eyes... and those eyes gave us four jaguar sightings. The wildlife came out to platy whatever the temperature. But when we arrived at the Araras Eco-lodge the weather changed, and it was glorious.

Suggestions

The Jaguar Houseboat did not have Wi-Fi, so we had to play games when it was too cold and wet to do anything else in between boat trips. The food was great. The Araras Eco-lodge was wonderful, with friendly staff, good food, and a cayman almost within touching distance of every room. (They eat fish, luckily.) There were no mosquitoes, which was a surprise. I've been on a lot of Exodus holidays, but this was one of the best.

Stephen Harford

Reviewed July 2016

A short trip but very enjoyable

We went on this holiday principally to see Jaguar, Giant Anteater, Giant River Otter, Tapir and Hyacinth Macaws. We opted for a short trip combining a boat hotel and and land-based lodge. We had been with Exodus previously and felt they would do a good job. Food at both venues was very well prepared although a little monotonous at times. Travel arrangements were very good.

Most Inspirational Moment

We saw 7 Jaguars on the river including a pregnant female and a lover's tiff between a young female and adult male. Saw giant river otters a number of times and while we only saw giant anteater and tapir once both were superbly close and long viewings. Our main interest is usually birds and these didn't disappoint with good views of various macaws, parrot, herons and some noteworthy viewings of sunbittern at Araras Lodge.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Tony, was very helpful and knowledgeable and he would always try to meet everyone's requirements. Originally from Guyana clearly his English was very good. In addition the guides at the Jaguar Boat and the Lodge were also very helpful, particularly Paulo on the Jaguar Boat day trip craft whose ability to spot wildlife at a distance was quite remarkable. The drivers transporting us between venues were also very courteous, safe and helpful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It may not be appropriate for all trips but when we were there was a surprising cold wind particularly when out on the river in the early morning. If you have room in your luggage it would be worth taking some warmer clothing just in case.

Suggestions

Some cabins on the Boat Hotel were quite cramped as they had 4 'short' bunks. Other cabins seemed more spacious with less beds. It might be worth viewing the available accommodation and selecting the most appropriate.

Read All Reviews

Covid-19 refund commitment

You will get a refund if you have to cancel your trip due to COVID-19.

Availability

This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.

View Trip Notes

Availability

This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.

View Trip Notes

Land of the Jaguar

Search for the largest and most elusive predator in the Americas

Itinerary

Share Your Photos...

Essential Info

Visa

Brazil

Vaccination

Brazil

Eating and Drinking

Weather

Weather Charts

Is this trip for you?

Lodges & Hotels

Reviews

Amazing Brazil

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Brilliant

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Land of the Jaguar report

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

The Pantanal deliverd

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Land of the Jaguar

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Land of the Jaguar

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Land of the Jaguar - and other wildlife

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

A great trip of two very different parts

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

When can I go back?

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

A short trip but very enjoyable

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Suggestions

Would you like to include flights with your booking?

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