Brazil Pantanal
Private Photography Expedition
North & South Pantanal · Bonito · Porto Jofre · Led by Yehudi Hernández
A fully customized 14-day expedition through the world's largest tropical wetland — designed for advanced photographers seeking Jaguars, Giant Otters, and rare wildlife in optimal conditions.
About This Expedition
The Pantanal is an ecological paradise located in the heart of Brazil. As the planet's largest wetland and the world's third-largest environmental reserve, it holds immense ecological importance. Home to one of the richest ecosystems on Earth, the region features seasonally flooded forests and the highest concentration of neotropical fauna.
This private expedition was designed as a tailored experience for 2 photographers, covering both the Northern and Southern Pantanal plus the Bonito region — maximizing encounters with the region's most iconic wildlife.
Target Species
The Pantanal offers some of the highest wildlife density in the Americas. These are the key species targeted during this expedition.
Expedition Gallery
Private 14-Day Itinerary
From the Southern Pantanal's open savannahs to the Northern Pantanal's legendary Jaguar rivers. Customized for advanced photographers.
Arrival — São Paulo → Campo Grande
Southern PantanalArrive early morning to São Paulo (GRU). Internal flight to Campo Grande. Meet local guide and transfer to Pousada Aguapé in the Southern Pantanal. Possible Giant Anteater sightings en route.
Aguapé — Macaws, Anteaters & Ocelot
Southern PantanalFull day excursions by open jeep through the fazenda. Hyacinth Macaws, Giant Anteaters, Hawks, Toucans. Night drive to photograph the elusive Ocelot.
Aguapé — Pampa Deer & Armadillos
Southern PantanalFull day at Pousada Aguapé private reserve. Excellent opportunities for Pampa Deer, Yellow Armadillo, Giant Anteater, Crab-eating Fox along the Aquidauana River.
Transfer to Bonito Region
BonitoMorning drive in open vehicle. After lunch, transfer to Bonito area. Arrival at Hotel Rural Araras for dinner and relaxation.
Buraco das Araras — Macaw Sinkhole
BonitoVisit the incredible Buraco das Araras — a 124m deep, 500m diameter sinkhole with its own ecosystem. Photograph Red-and-Green Macaws in flight and bats emerging at dusk.
Flight to Cuiabá — Transpantaneira Road
Northern PantanalDomestic flight to Cuiabá, then enter the legendary Transpantaneira road for ~3 hours with wildlife stops. Arrive at lodge for boat excursion on the Pixaim River — Hawks and Kingfishers in flight.
River Otters & Jabirus — Transfer to Porto Jofre
Northern PantanalMorning boat tour searching for Giant River Otters and Jabiru Storks. After lunch, 90km transfer to Porto Jofre — the heart of Jaguar territory.
Jaguar Search — Cuiabá River
Porto JofreFull day on the Cuiabá River by motorboat. Begin the intensive search for Jaguars on exposed riverbanks. Also encounter Giant Otters, Caimans, Capybaras, and rare waterbirds.
Jaguar & Otters — Piquirí River
Porto JofreAnother full day exploring the Cuiabá and Piquirí rivers — the two main Jaguar routes. Monkeys, Caimans, and an incredible variety of wildlife along the waterways.
Jaguar — Full Day Rivers
Porto JofreThird full day on the rivers to ensure a comprehensive collection of Jaguar photographs. Morning and afternoon outings exploring side channels and riverbanks.
Final Jaguar Session — Transfer to Pouso Alegre
Northern PantanalLast morning on the rivers. After lunch, 3-hour transfer to Pouso Alegre Lodge. Afternoon photowalk on the Urutu trail — Jabiru nests, Agoutis, Night Herons.
Pouso Alegre — Tapir Search & Night Safari
Northern PantanalMorning game drive. Afternoon excursion for Brazilian Tapir at a known watering hole. Evening night safari along the Transpantaneira — Ocelot, Giant Anteater, and nocturnal birds.
Pouso Alegre — Morning Game Drive
Northern PantanalMorning game drive on the property for final wildlife photography. Mid-morning departure for Cuiabá airport.
Departure — Cuiabá → São Paulo → Home
São PauloFlight from Cuiabá to Guarulhos airport for international connection. End of expedition.
All-Inclusive Package
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Ground transportation with A/C
- Domestic flight Cuiabá → Campo Grande
- Boat rides on Cuiabá & Piquirí rivers
- Premium lodging throughout (Pousada Aguapé, Hotel Rural Araras, Porto Jofre Lodge, Pouso Alegre)
- Professional wildlife guides at every location
- Night safari drives
- Conservation & park fees
- Water & refreshments daily
Not Included
- International flights
- Brazilian visa
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal items & tips
Expedition Details
Private — 2 photographers
14 days / 13 nights
South Pantanal, Bonito, North Pantanal, Porto Jofre
Advanced photographers
Yehudi Hernández
Elias Nature Tours