About Pantanal

The Pantanal (a floodland area in a plain in the middle of the South American continente, forming shallows is, in fact, a vast alluvial plain). This is by far, the best place to see wild life in Brazil. A vast floodland in the center of South America, the Pantanal is about half the size of France, some 230.000sq.km (88.800sq. miles), that spreads across Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay, of the total area, around 130.000 sq. km (50.000 sq. miles) is located in Brazil.

The climate is tropical and humid with temperatures between 7ºC (45ºF) (evening and nights during winter time) to 40ºC(104 ºF) (day time) and the average temperature is 24ºC (75 ºF). September and October are the driest months. Between these two periods, the lakes become a perfect ecological niche for a great number of birds, reptiles and other animals to the delight of wildlife watchers and photographers.

The Pantanal, which long ago was a sea, is made up of lowlands flooded by the Paraguay River and its tributaries fertilizing the land, revitalizing it and giving birth to wild flowers and vegetation in abundance. It is the biggest natural fish breeding ground in the world, the most important species are the dorado (Salminus maxillosus), surubim (Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum) and surubim-pintado (Pseudoplatystome coruscans). There are close to 700 bird species, a paradise for ornithologists and bird watchers. The fauna becomes complete by caymans, deer, capybara - the world´s largest rodent - anteaters, porcupines, canis, jaguars and monkeys.

What to bring and what to wear from: November to March: 2 pairs of treking or (baseball-type) tennis shoes - to give support to the ankle- terrain is unstable (marshy); boots, or rubber boots; jeans; light long-sleeved shirts (neutral colors); swimsuit; hat or cap; films; mosquito repellent; binoculars; sunglasses; and optional raincoat and flashlight.

April to October: same as above, plus a woolen jacket and sweaters.

Because of the area where there are mosquitoes, it is recommended to take Vitamin B pills, for 3 days prior to arrival and during stay. Vitamin B acts as mosquito repellent.