Last Frontiers sent journalist Wendy Gomersall to experience the wonderful Pantanal wetlands of Brazil, a true haven for wildlife.
Wendy spent four nights at Caiman Lodge and had an incredible time. She was bowled over by the wildlife she saw and was lucky enough to see five jaguars in one day!
Her article coincides nicely with the BBC Natural World episode 'Jaguars: Brazil's Super Cats', due to air at 9pm, Wednesday 14 September on BBC2, which follows the journey of two orphaned cubs which were taken on by Caiman's Onçafari jaguar project and eventually released into the wild.
Black caimanOur 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.
Caiman LodgePrices including the 3 night stay at Caiman start from £4,195 per person based on two people travelling and include international flights from London, internal flights, bed and breakfast accommodation throughout and full board in the Pantanal, shared excursions and private transfers.
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