In the home of the hyacinth macaw in the Northern Pantanal, Araras is an eco-lodge built in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment, with a large emphasis on comfort. Completely immersed in this tropical wetland ecosystem, but ideally located along the Transpantaneira Highway, Araras is the perfect lodge for an authentic Pantaneiro experience, providing a glimpse into the way of life of the Pantanal cattle ranchers. From the lodge it is possible to trek through the pristine forest, enjoy first-class bird watching, ride horseback and go canoeing, as well as photo-safaris, tree-top look outs and more, all with the help of expert, bilingual naturalist guides.
Two and a half hours by car from Cuiaba Airport, via the Transpantaneira Park Road, in the Pantanal, the largest continuous wetland on the planet (approx. 250,000 square kilometres).
Rooms are warm and comfortable, built in a rustic style, gathered around a shady courtyard. Each of the 19 rooms is air-conditioned with screened windows & ceiling fans, as well as en-suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water. There are wide, relaxing verandas with hammocks and comfy seating, as well as a good sized swimming pool, bar and a restaurant, as well as a nice covered area for outdoor dining.
On each excursion you will be accompanied by an expert, bilingual, naturalist guide, setting out into the wild wetlands of the Pantanal. Explore the waterways with a canoe, try piranha fishing, or ride horse back past the giant lily-pads of the wetlands. Come into close contact with the resident flora and fauna on a walk, enjoy a jeep safari to get some fabulous photos or head out at night with a spotlight to see some of the nocturnal species of the area. Each evening you will gather and decide what you want to do the next day and learn about the local culture and wildlife.
Home-cooked meals can be eaten in the dining area or in the thatched area by the pool. Wherever possible organic cuisine is served and sourced from the Pantanal.
From the beaches of Rio and the statue of Christ the Redeemer, to tracking the majestic jaguar through the wilds of the Pantanal Wetlands, and finally witnessing the awe-inspiring sight of the world’s largest waterfall system, this safari allows you to experience three of the most enduring symbols of Brazil.
On this safari you will visit 3 different biomes: the vast Pantanal, mighty Amazon and little-known Cerrado and have a good chance to spot iconic wildlife such as jaguars, maned wolves, giant river otters, tapir and giant anteaters.
Join wildlife and travel photographer Steven Bobzien on this immersive safari into the heart of Brazil’s Pantanal wetlands, in search of the elusive jaguar.
