Last Frontiers sent journalist Wendy Gomersall to experience the wonderful wildlife of Brazil's Pantanal wetlands at Caiman Lodge. Spending four nights there she was lucky enough to see five jaguars in one day!
Her article coincides with the new BBC One series 'Big Cats'.
Our suggested 12 day ‘Brazil Wildlife’ trip includes a 3 night stay in the Pantanal. The full itinerary starts with 1 night in Curitiba before boarding the classic Paranaguá train through Atlantic rainforest, spending a night near the small colonial town of Morretes with its cobblestone streets. Return to Curitiba for a flight to Campo Grande from where guests travel overland to reach one of Caiman’s two lodges. Spend 3 nights at the lodge, enjoying daily excursions with a naturalist guide. Fly to Rio for 2 nights before spending a final 3 nights in colonial Paraty.
The Pantanal experiences two distinct seasons. The rainy season runs from December to March (February being the wettest month) and the region floods and access becomes restricted. The beginning of the dry season (May to August) is perhaps the best time to visit.
"The Pantanal was fantastic, we stayed at the Baiazinha Lodge at Caiman - what a place! Thank you so much for your help in making our honeymoon so unforgettable, it was worth every penny!" - AC