The vast Pantanal wetlands are a paradise for nature lovers, especially for wildlife observation. Unlike the areas of high jungle, the Pantanal is an open area of swampy grasslands, leaving some of the highest concentration of fauna in the continent exposed to view. Stay at one of a number of our favourite eco lodges, we suggest anything from 3 days to a week - there are plenty of excursions by boat, trail and on horse-back.
What is the Pantanal?
The Pantanal wetlands cover a large basin half the size of France. This basin is seasonally flooded and is drained by the Paraguay River, which flows into the south Atlantic via the River Plate Estuary.
The result is a paradise for nature lovers, especially for wildlife observation. Unlike the areas of high jungle, the Pantanal is an open area of swampy grasslands, leaving some of the highest concentration of fauna in the continent exposed to view.
The wildlife co-exists harmoniously with the cattle that breed on the ranches in the area. According to season, you might observe flocks of thousands of parakeets, rosy spoonbills, ibis, macaws and giant storks..
In the dry season, scores of caiman laze on the river beaches, capybara (a type of giant guinea pig) stroll across the roads, and you may come across armadillos, anteaters and howler monkeys.
Rainy season is December to April - roads are muddy and even impassable, excursions may be by boat: but the reflection of the tangerine sunsets on the flooded plains creates a rich and sumptuous tableau.
We recommend that you travel in the dry season when you will spot more fauna, although it can be cold at night in June when animals tend to hide away.
Stay in the Pantanal at one of a number of eco-friendly lodges, all offering similar excursions, high quality accommodation and food. Wildlife writer Jeremy Wade uncovers South America's animal haven, the Pantanal, and writes about his safari for our online magazine, Papagaio.
Wetlands wonderland
Writer John Gimlette explores Brazil's wildlife-filled wetland region, the Pantanal and writes about his experiences for our online magazine, Papagaio.
Theatre of wildlife
Journey Latin America's Jim Ashworth came back from his visit to the Pantanal fired with enthusiasm and crammed with new knowledge. Here, in an article first published in our online magazine Papagaio, he gives you the definitive guide for a holiday in the area.
The Pantanal: An Insider's Guide | Read more about: Pantanal wildlife expeditions 
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