Contrary to popular belief, the Pantanal,
in mid-west Brazil, is THE
hotspot for wildlife watching in South America and not the Amazon.
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| Capped Heron- photo by Heberton Alves |
Although the name suggests a swamp area, the Pantanal
is, in fact, a vast area of seasonally flooded plains. During rainy season, the
local rivers burst their banks, bringing with them millions of fish. When the
water recedes, the fish are trapped in small water courses and ponds, to be
feasted on by birds and caimans, forming a rich and complex food chain. This
seasonal flooding also means that this whole region, roughly half of the size
of France, has no vocation for intensive farming, resulting in an area of huge cattle
ranches with very few towns and people.
All these unique characteristics make the Pantanal an
area teeming with wildlife: birds are the main attraction with almost 650
species documented, making it a must visit destination for birdwatchers. Mammals are also easily spotted in the open areas of
savanna. Giant otters, armadillos, anteaters, capybaras and howler monkeys,
besides the conspicuous caimans are commonly seen. Jaguars’ sightings are rarer
but there is an increased chance in certain areas due to monitoring and
conservation projects.
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| Jaguar in Fazenda San Francisco - photo by Herbeton Alves |
Further south, the small town of Bonito is famous for
its underwater attractions. Due to the local geology, the rivers have high
concentration of calcium carbonate that precipitates all impurities from the
water, turning them into natural aquariums. While floating downriver you can come into
close contact with many species of fish, including the great Dourado and the beautiful
Pacu. While the rivers are the best known attractions, there other trips,
including some great waterfalls and caves, which are worth visiting. For the
more adventurous, certainly the most spectacular attraction in the whole of
Bonito is the Abyss of Anhumas, a 72
m deep abyss leading to an underground lake with crystal
clear water and giant stalactite formations.
Araras Lodge - one of pioneers of ecotourism in Northern
Pantanal, it has professional guides, comfortable accommodation and a good
cost/benefit.
5 days/4
nights from US$ 1229.00 per person based on 2 sharing
Embiara Lodge – a family-run, exclusive lodge in the
most remote area of Southern Pantanal- Pantanal Nhecolandia. An excellent
option even for second timers.
4
days/3 nights from US$ 1659.00 per person based on 2 sharing- including
transfer by air taxi one way for an unforgettable flight over the savannah.
5 days/4
nights from US$ 1479.00 per person based on 2 sharing.
Offers valid for travelling in June 2012. Please
consult us for more details.
