When to go
When is the best time to see jaguars?
From July to October, in the dry season. The rivers drop, jaguars come down to the banks to hunt and the boat trips in Porto Jofre have the best chances of sightings.
April to June and November are also good, with fewer visitors.
Is the rainy season worth it?
From December to March the Pantanal turns green, full of birds and with lower prices. On the other hand, some roads get difficult and jaguars are harder to see. If jaguars are your focus, we recommend the dry season.
Are jaguar sightings guaranteed?
No serious agency can guarantee it, because they are wild animals. In the dry season, in Porto Jofre, the chances are very high, which is why our itineraries include more than one day of boat safari.
Getting there
Which airport should I fly into?
Marechal Rondon International Airport in Cuiabá (code CGB). There are direct flights from several Brazilian cities, such as São Paulo and Brasília. International travelers usually connect in São Paulo.
We pick you up at the airport or at your hotel in Cuiabá.
How long does it take from Cuiabá to the Pantanal?
It takes about 2 hours to reach the start of the Transpantaneira road in Poconé. Porto Jofre, at the end of the Transpantaneira, is about 250 km away, much of it on a dirt road. With stops to watch wildlife along the way, the drive becomes part of the tour.
Health, documents and insurance
Do I need vaccinations?
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for visitors to Mato Grosso. Get it at least 10 days before the trip and bring your certificate. For other vaccines, ask your doctor or a travel medicine clinic.
Is travel insurance included?
Yes. Our quotes already include travel insurance for each person. If you are coming from abroad, we also recommend international health insurance covering your whole stay in Brazil.
Do I need a visa?
It depends on your country. Some nationalities need an electronic visa to enter Brazil. Check the current rules with the Brazilian consulate in your country before buying your tickets.
What to bring
What should I pack?
- Light long-sleeved clothes in neutral colors (green, beige or brown)
- A light jacket: mornings on the boat and cold fronts from June to August can be chilly
- A hat or cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sneakers or light boots and a pair of sandals
- Binoculars and a camera (a long lens helps a lot with jaguars)
- A power bank and a waterproof case or bag for electronics
- A water bottle
Is there internet and mobile signal?
The lodges have Wi-Fi, but it is usually slow. Along the Transpantaneira and on the rivers there is almost no mobile signal. Let your family know before you set off.
On the tours
Do I need to be very fit?
No. Most activities are by boat or by car, with short walks. The heat is the main challenge, so water and sunscreen are essential. Tell us your fitness level in your profile and we will adapt the pace.
Is it safe?
Yes. Our guides have known the region for years, the boats carry life jackets and we always keep a respectful distance from the animals, for everyone’s safety and their well-being.
Can children come?
Yes. Each lodge has its own policy for children, and the price depends on their age. Tell us their ages in the quote request. Group trips with other travelers are for adults aged 18 or over only.
What languages do you speak?
In Portuguese, English and Spanish.
What about meals?
Packages include full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner). If you have a dietary restriction or allergy, add it to your profile and we will let the lodges know.
Booking, payment and cancellation
How does payment work?
- 30% when the booking is confirmed (deposit).
- 30% up to 150 days before arrival (60% in total).
- The remaining 40% up to 90 days before arrival.
For bookings made after one of these deadlines, the overdue installments are paid on confirmation. Your booking is only guaranteed after the deposit and our written confirmation.
What if I need to cancel?
The amount retained is calculated on the total package price:
- More than 150 days before arrival: 30% is retained.
- 150 to 91 days before arrival: 60% is retained.
- 90 to 61 days before arrival: 80% is retained.
- 60 days or less, no-show or early departure: 100% is retained.
Date changes are only accepted at least 150 days in advance and subject to availability. If the chosen hotel has a stricter policy, the hotel policy applies.
How do the group trips work?
They are scheduled departures with up to 8 people, for travelers who want to share the trip and pay less than a private tour. You create your profile, request a spot and, once confirmed, see who is traveling with you.
Still have questions?
Send your question along with your quote request. We reply within 24 hours.