Adventure

Pantanal Trekking Tour Pics

You can go on an ecological expedition to the Pantanal, Brazil.

You can go hiking and see wildlife on the river like:

Yacare Caiman

 

Jabiru

Trekking in the Pantanal

  • Best time to visit: The dry season (May to September) is generally the best time for trekking, as trails are more accessible, and wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. The wet season (October to April) brings heavy rainfall, flooding, and limited access to some areas, making trekking more challenging.
  • Choose a reputable tour operator or eco-lodge: Do your research to ensure you select a responsible company that prioritizes conservation and the well-being of local communities.
  • Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and a wide-brimmed hat. Insect repellent and sunscreen are essential, as are waterproof gear and a change of clothes during the wet season.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during your trek, especially in the hot and humid conditions of the Pantanal.
  • Be prepared for wildlife encounters: Follow your guide’s instructions and maintain a safe distance from animals because some have sharp teeth.

 

FAQ

Q: Are there risks to visiting the Pantanal? A: Like any wilderness area, there can be risks. These can range from sunburn and dehydration to encounters with wildlife. Don’t forget, mosquitoes here aren’t just annoying, they’re tiny artists leaving itchy red artworks on your skin.

Q: What’s the accommodation like? A: You’ll find everything from basic guesthouses to luxurious eco-lodges. And no, you can’t just bunk with the capybaras.

Q: What impact does tourism have on the Pantanal? A: If managed responsibly, tourism can help support conservation efforts. But remember, you’re a guest in the home of thousands of species – take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.

Q: What can I do to support conservation in the Pantanal? A: Choose eco-friendly tour operators, follow guidelines, and consider supporting local conservation organizations. No, changing your screensaver to a picture of a jaguar doesn’t count.

Q: Is there any special equipment needed to explore the Pantanal? A: Comfortable clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a hat to protect you from the sun are essential. Also, pack enough insect repellent to deter a small army of mosquitoes. Remember, ‘swamp chic’ is all the rage in the Pantanal!

Q: Can I swim in the Pantanal? A: While the water might look inviting, it’s best to avoid swimming due to the presence of caimans and piranhas. It’s not the kind of pool party you want to join.

Q: What kind of vegetation will I see in the Pantanal? A: The Pantanal hosts a mix of grasslands, marshes, and forests. It’s kind of like Mother Nature’s experimental garden.

Q: Is the Pantanal at risk? A: Yes, unfortunately. The Pantanal faces threats from deforestation, cattle ranching, and climate change. Let’s not make it into a sad country song.

Q: Can I do birdwatching in the Pantanal? A: Absolutely! With over 1,000 bird species, the Pantanal is a birder’s paradise. Just remember, impersonating bird calls is considered very uncool in the avian world.

Q: How can I best prepare for a trip to the Pantanal? A: Research ahead, book with a responsible tour operator, and pack for the weather and activities. And maybe practice your ‘wow, that’s an incredible animal’ face in the mirror.

Q: What local communities live in the Pantanal? A: The Pantanal is home to a number of indigenous and traditional communities, including the Bororo, Terena, and Guató people. Remember, they’re not part of the wildlife – show the same respect you would anywhere else.

 

 

 

Infographic

Whistling Heron

 

jaguar

 

wooden boardwalk in the rainforest of the Jungle along the Miranda River in the Pantanal Brazil South America

Other outdoor activities you can do include: boating, jeep safari, riding horse back, and fishing.

 

 

Anteater

 

Toco Toucan

 

 

Guira cuckoo

 

 

hyacinth macaw

 

 

 

 

Piranha

 

Green Anaconda

 

 

Paraguay River at sunrise

 

Red-footed tortoise

 

 

 

Waterfall  at Chapada dos Guimaraes, Mato Grosso, Brazil is a must see.

List of the cool looking wildlife you can see here:

  1. Jaguar
  2. Giant otter
  3. Capybara
  4. Anaconda
  5. Green anaconda
  6. Black caiman
  7. Toco toucan
  8. Hyacinth macaw
  9. Blue-and-yellow macaw
  10. Red-and-green macaw
  11. Jabiru stork
  12. Roseate spoonbill
  13. Southern screamer
  14. Greater rhea
  15. Marsh deer
  16. Brazilian tapir
  17. Maned wolf
  18. Crab-eating fox
  19. Giant anteater
  20. Tamandua anteater
  21. Giant armadillo
  22. Collared peccary
  23. White-lipped peccary
  24. Yellow anaconda
  25. Anaconda
  26. Caiman lizard
  27. Anaconda
  28. Spectacled caiman
  29. Black howler monkey
  30. Capuchin monkey
  31. Giant river otter
  32. Crab-eating raccoon
  33. Puma
  34. Tapir
  35. Ocelot
  36. Margay
  37. Jaguarundi
  38. Marsh tapir
  39. Lowland tapir
  40. Gray brocket deer
  41. Southern tamandua
  42. Red brocket deer
  43. South American coati
  44. Tegu lizard
  45. Red-footed tortoise
  46. Yellow-footed tortoise
  47. Black vulture
  48. King vulture
  49. White-tailed hawk
  50. Snail kite
  51. Plumbeous ibis
  52. Bare-faced curassow
  53. Gray-necked wood-rail
  54. Southern lapwing
  55. Rufous-sided crake

 

 

How to get here

International flights often connect through São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, from where you can take a domestic flight to one of these cities.

  • Campo Grande: The capital of Mato Grosso do Sul, this city offers access to the southern Pantanal.
  • Cuiabá: The capital of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá is a popular starting point for visiting the northern Pantanal.
  • Corumbá: Located on the border of Bolivia, Corumbá provides access to the western Pantanal and the Paraguay River.