Brazil: Pantanal: Pousada do Rio Mutum

The Pantanal is a vast area of wildlife wetlands in Brazil's deepest interior. Large cattle ranches co-exist with protected natural habitats. There are a number of lodges, from the simple to the relatively luxurious, from which you can take exploratory guided excursions to spot the myriad of birds, reptiles and mammals which inhabit the area. The area is accessible from the cities of Campo Grande and Cuiabá, both of which have airports.

Green and red macaws and giant river otters are amongst the abundant wildlife frequently spotted from this northern Pantanal lodge. Activities on offer include kayaking and horse riding. 

This comfortable lodge is a 3 hour drive from Cuiabá airport. The 22 attractive white, red-roofed chalets house cosy and brightly decorated rooms with en suite facilities and mosquito screening. There is a swimming pool, shady patio and thatched restaurant.

Thanks to its position at the point where the Rio Mutum merges with two lakes, there are frequent sightings of giant river otter from the lodge. The surroundings are quite thickly forested and support a rich variety of bird life; red and green macaws are seen in abundance.

Guides are well-informed and excursions, which include kayaking on the river at sunrise, as well as nature walks and horse riding, are suitable for most ages and abilities.