Pantanal Jaguar Budget Safari

Your journey begins with a private transfer from Cuiabá to Pousada Pouso Alegre, nestled deep in the northern Pantanal. The journey covers around 140 kilometers, with the first 100 kilometers on paved roads up to Poconé City, followed by 33 kilometers on the unpaved Transpantaneira road, and the final 7 kilometers as a trail through the lodge’s expansive grounds. Expect the transfer to take between two to three hours, depending on road conditions.

Upon arrival at the lodge, you’ll check in and enjoy a delicious lunch. After settling in and taking some time to relax, the first adventure of the day awaits. In the late afternoon, before nightfall, embark on a guided nature walk through the surrounding landscape. The hike, which lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, will take you across boardwalks and through the bush, where your guide will explain the intricacies of the Pantanal ecosystem. This is also your first opportunity to spot local wildlife, such as the coatimundi, agouti, and a variety of bird species.

Following dinner, the excitement continues with a night safari around the ranch area. Equipped with a “silibim” — a powerful lantern designed to reflect the eyes of nocturnal animals — your guide will help you spot the elusive creatures that come to life after dark. Look out for alligators, owls, foxes, spiders, tapirs, and more. The night safari lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, offering not just thrilling wildlife encounters, but also a breathtaking view of the starry Pantanal sky.

After an exhilarating day, you’ll retire to your private room, with dinner included, complete with air conditioning and a private bathroom, ready to rest up for the adventures to come. Check out our guide to Pantanal Brazil for more tips on making the most of your trip.

Begin your day with a serene sunrise walk, lasting about 1.5 hours, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the Pantanal wildlife coming to life at dawn. As the sun rises over the marshes and bodies of water near the lodge, keep an eye out for tapirs, crab-eating foxes, deer, raccoons, and various bird species. This early morning stroll offers a peaceful yet exciting way to start your day in the wild.

After breakfast, embark on a car safari around the farm area of the lodge. The trails meander through diverse environments, including dry forests, flooded forests, savannahs, fields, and swamps. These habitats are home to an array of Pantanal wildlife, from tapirs and anteaters to coatis and deer. During the dry season, waterholes attract even more animals, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. The car safari typically lasts 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the season.

After lunch, you’ll transfer to the Porto Jofre region, located at the end of the iconic Transpantaneira Road, approximately 120 kilometers from Pousada Pouso Alegre. This drive, which takes between 4 and 5 hours, includes stops along the way for wildlife spotting and photography. You’ll check in at your accommodation in Porto Jofre, ready for the adventures ahead. Dinner will be served, and you’ll settle in for the night in a private room with air conditioning and a bathroom.

As you navigate through the pristine waters of the Parque Estadual Encontro das Águas, keep your camera ready, as the jaguar is just one of the incredible creatures that call this region home. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll have the best chance of spotting these powerful cats in their natural habitat. Alongside jaguars, the Pantanal’s rivers are teeming with wildlife, including the playful antics of giant otters, the stillness of caimans, and the grace of numerous bird species such as herons, toucans, and hawks.

At midday, you’ll enjoy a peaceful lunch break under the shade of trees, surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Pantanal. After a short rest, the adventure continues as you resume your search for more wildlife along the Cuiabá, Piquiri, and Três Irmãos rivers. This tour offers an immersive experience in one of the best regions for Jaguar Safari in the Pantanal, ensuring an unforgettable day in the heart of the world’s largest tropical wetland.

Looking for other wildlife options? Discover Pantanal tours with a better cost-benefit and learn when is the best time to visit.

As you make your way back to Cuiabá, the Pantanal’s remarkable landscape continues to offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for capybaras, caimans, and the vibrant birdlife that thrive in this unique ecosystem. The journey itself becomes a final safari, providing lasting memories of your time in this incredible natural wonder.

Upon arrival in Cuiabá, you’ll conclude your Pantanal Jaguar Budget Safari adventure. For those planning future visits, it’s important to know the best season for jaguar sightings and other wildlife activities. Find out the best time to visit the Pantanal to make the most of your next adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the Pantanal’s diverse and abundant wildlife will never cease to amaze.