Trip Highlights
The Pantanal holds the world's highest density of wild jaguars. Unlike in other areas, jaguars here are active during the day, offering excellent chances to see these elusive cats in the wild.
Along the way we also expect to see giant river otters, anteaters, tapir, capybaras, hyacinth macaw, and the world’s largest stork, the jabiru, among other wildlife.
Our final day is spent at the SouthWild Pantanal Lodge where more than 300 bird species have been recorded.
About This Trip
Join us as we explore the incredible Pantanal in Brazil, the world's largest tropical wetland, with renowned wildlife photographer and Pantanal expert, Pete Oxford. Our Brazilian adventure starts and ends in Cuiabá, the northern access point to the Pantanal. In a region that boasts perhaps the world’s highest density of jaguars, we offer you the opportunity to look into the eyes of this majestic cat. When not in pursuit of jaguars you may find yourself in the company of endangered giant river otters and tapirs, the once-endangered Hyacinth Macaw, or a plethora of capybara, spectacled caiman, and birds of all descriptions. The northern Pantanal offers the best opportunities for jaguar sightings in the world, and your trip leaders were among the first people to photograph wild jaguars in the region (the photos adorned National Geographic, including the cover). The most reliable way to find and photograph this enigmatic and elusive cat is to patrol the sand banks of the Cuiabá River and its tributaries by boat. We will devote four full days to look for these majestic animals while staying on the river in the heart of jaguar country. Though jaguars are the expedition’ focus, the region also boasts some 350 species of birds plus much more to appease your naturalist and photographic desires. We will also enjoy seeing a host of other animals – some of them endangered, like the giant river otter. Prior to the start of our expedition, you can choose to join our (highly recommended) trip extension to visit one of the great wonders of nature: Iguaçu Falls. We will stay just a short walk from the breathtaking falls at the only hotel located within Iguaçu National Park, allowing you to visit the falls at dawn and dusk when other visitors have vacated the park. Offered in partnership with Pete Oxford Expeditions.
Notes on Trip Costs
Special terms and conditions apply The trip, without the extension, starts and ends in Cuiabá, Brazil. International airfare is not included in the trip price. Limited single supplements are available for a fee of $1,650.
Conservation Impact
Established in 1969, Oceanic Society stands as the oldest nonprofit organization in America committed to ocean conservation. We are trailblazers in the realm of "eco travel," crafting expeditions that not only align with our charitable mission but also actively support marine research and conservation efforts globally. Moreover, with every booking made, we take pride in sponsoring the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean. Dive deeper into our innovative travel approach here.
Dates & Prices
TBA - 2026
Register Your InterestItinerary
For a detailed itinerary, please email expeditions@oceanicsociety.org
Accommodations
During our expedition we will stay at comfortable hotels that have been selected due to their convenience, access to wildlife, and immersion within the natural areas we aim to explore. Hotels include:
- Slaviero Varzea Grande Hotel (1 night): This modern high-rise hotel is located just 100 meters from the Cuiabá airport, and offers a comfortable landing place from which we will embark on our expedition.
- SouthWild Pantanal Lodge (2 nights): This intimate, land-based lodge allows provides access to a variety of wildlife for which the Pantanal is famous, including jabiru storks, toucans, tapirs, and giant river otters.
- SouthWild Jaguar Flotel & Suites (5 or 4 nights): This comfortable floating hotel and suites is located in the area of highest jaguar density and offers unmatched access to prime jaguar viewing areas of the Pantanal. Rooms are air conditioned and WiFi is available. A full-time jaguar researcher is on-site and science lectures are provided during our stay.
- Fazenda Pouso Alegre (1 or 2 nights): A simple, comfortable, and highly-rated lodge that is situated to offer some of the terrestrial wildlife viewing in the Pantanal.
Naturalist(s)
Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides:
Trip Extensions
Optional three-day post-trip extension to Iguaçu Falls
Iguaçu means “big water” in the Guarani Indian language, which is a fitting description for this magnificent landscape. Iguaçu is simply spectacular! The falls range from 60-80 meters (200-269 feet) in height and stretch for 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles), making them twice as wide as Niagara Falls. They are located within two UNESCO World Heritage sites, which means the lush microclimate created by the large clouds of spray and the falls themselves are protected. A visit here will undoubtedly leave you in awe. The fauna around the Iguaçu Falls is extremely rich with over 60 species of mammals, 422 birds, over 40 reptiles, 18 amphibians, and 250 butterfly species. This area tends to be our best chance of seeing large numbers of Toco Toucans, the most spectacular of all toucans. Contact us to request a detailed itinerary and pricing for this trip extension.
