Travel info
Before you go
Practical answers to the questions travellers ask most. Anything else, ask our guides directly on WhatsApp.
How do I get there?
Fly into Cuiabá, the capital of Mato Grosso. One of our guides picks you up at the airport or at your hotel, and every tour ends back in Cuiabá in time for your flight. The Transpantaneira road starts in Poconé, about 100 km from Cuiabá.
When is the best time to visit?
Both seasons are good. In the flood season (December to May) animals gather on forest islands and higher ground where they are easy to see. In the dry season (June to November) wildlife spreads across the whole area, and jaguars hunt along the rivers. See the seasons for details.
How far ahead should I book?
From June to October, demand is higher than the number of rooms at most lodges, so book as early as you can. Outside those months it is often possible to arrange a trip at short notice. Ask our guides on WhatsApp.
What is included?
- Lodging with private bathroom and hot shower
- Meals listed in the itinerary
- Air-conditioned transfers from and to Cuiabá
- Walks, boat trips, night safaris and horseback rides in the program
- Private bilingual guide (English and Portuguese)
Drinks, flights and travel insurance are not included.
Do I need vaccinations?
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel to Mato Grosso. It takes effect 10 days after the shot, so plan ahead. Mosquitoes that carry dengue and Zika are present, so bring repellent and wear long sleeves and trousers at sunrise and sunset.
Check current advice with your doctor or travel clinic before you go.
What should I bring?
- Light, fast-drying clothes: long-sleeved shirts, T-shirts, trousers (zip-off trousers are ideal) and a hat
- Sunscreen SPF 50 and insect repellent
- Binoculars and a camera with a good zoom
- A small flashlight for the night safaris
Clothes dry quickly, so you can wash them in the shower and pack less.
What is the food like?
Pantanal cooking is simple and tasty, with fish and meat in most traditional dishes. Salads and other options are always offered, and vegetarian meals can be arranged if you tell us in advance.
What are the lodges like?
All lodges are along the Transpantaneira, chosen for their wildlife. They range from very comfortable, with air conditioning, ceiling fans, porches, pools and Wi-Fi, to more basic. Every room has a private bathroom with a hot shower. Our guides select the lodges to suit your interests and preferences.
Where should I stay in Cuiabá?
Hotels our guests use:
- Odara Hotel
- Deville Hotel
- Amazon Hotel (near the airport)
- Slaviero Slim (near the airport)
- Taina Hotel (near the airport)
Is a jaguar sighting guaranteed?
No one can guarantee wildlife. But since 2003, every guest who spent at least three nights in the Porto Jofre region has seen a jaguar. The jaguar season runs from June to December.
Which languages do you speak?
Our guides speak English and Portuguese. Patricia handles enquiries in German, Swiss German, Italian and Spanish.
How do I book and pay?
Send a request with your dates. Our guides reply with an itinerary and price. A 30% deposit secures the booking, and the balance is due 60 days before departure. Payment by bank transfer or credit card. Full details in the booking terms.