Wild Brazil: Pantanal Iguazu and Rio
15 days from £5,115 pp
Experience the best of Brazil on our two-week Wild Brazil: Pantanal Iguazu and Rio holiday, offering extraordinary wildlife experiences and responsible travel throughout. Explore the incredible diversity of Brazil as you stay in an eco-lodge deep in the heart of the Pantanal, searching for jaguars alongside expert wildlife guides. Witness the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls up close, soak up the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro. End in the colonial gem of Paraty, with its cobbled streets, surrounded by tropical forest and hidden beaches. This is the complete Brazil experience.
Trip Highlights
- See jaguars in the wild in the Northern Pantanal
- Explore Iguazu falls before the national park opens to the public
- Visit the iconic sites of Rio de Janeiro, including Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf mountain and quirky town of Santa Teresa
- Wander the cobbled streets of Paraty and soak up its colonial charm
Our Expert Tip
”In the Pantanal, mornings and nights can be cold, and the days are hot, so you will want to bring layers, especially for early morning boat rides”
Sinead, Brazil expert
Detailed Wild Brazil: Pantanal Iguazu and Rio Itinerary
Day 1: Cuiaba
Your Wild Brazil Pantanal Iguazu and Rio holiday begins as you fly into Cuiaba: the capital state of Mato Grosso and entrance to the Northern Pantanal. Meet your private guide and driver and transfer to your comfortable hotel. Relax after your flight and enjoy the afternoon at leisure exploring the city’s century-old churches, squares, art galleries, and diverse gastronomy.
Get ready for your adventures in the Pantanal and the search for jaguars the next day.
Day 3-5: Pantanal
Your jaguar spotting experience begins, as you are driven three-hours to your Pantanal wildlife lodge via the scenic Transpantaneira Park Road. The next three days are teeming with wildlife adventures and activities, for example explore the region’s huge biodiversity on foot, boat, canoe or open safari vehicle and see up close an array of flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for tapirs, ocelots, capybaras, coatis, otters, caiman and more than 300 species of birds.
A highlight of your time in the Pantanal will be a full day Jaguar Express excursion with your expert guide, journeying to Porto Jofre in search of wildlife along the banks of Cuiaba River. This is without doubt the best place in the world to spot jaguars in the wild. Read more here about increasing your chances of seeing jaguars.
Day 6-7: Iguazu Falls
Say goodbye to the incredible Pantanal (hopefully taking many memories of jaguar sightings with you) and transfer to the airport for a flight to the mighty Iguazu Falls. These Falls are one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, covering both Argentina and Brazil.
Your time in Iguazu will include a private full day tour the falls on the Argentinian side. Experience a scenic train ride across the park, choose from the numerous boardwalks for varying viewpoints and get up close to the beauty and mighty roar of the falls.
Day 8: Iguazu Falls
As your Wild Brazil Pantanal Iguazu and Rio holiday continues, its time for something really special. Be transferred to the Brazilian Iguazu National Park and stay at a 5* luxury hotel overlooking the falls.
You will have a private guided tour of the Brazilian side, famed for sweeping panoramic views. Set your alarm early the next morning to experience the falls in complete peace away from any crowds, before the national park opens to the public. A truly once in a lifetime experience.
Day 9-11: Rio de Janeiro
Today fly to the iconic city of Rio De Janeiro, famously known as ‘The Marvelous City’. With the help of your local guide, discover Rio’s vibrant culture and explore its many highlights. Take in spectacular views from Sugar Loaf Mountain and Corcovado, home to Christ The Redeemer statue.
For a more off-the-beaten path experience, hike through the rainforest to lesser-known viewpoints. By night, test out Rio’s legendary nightlife, or by day, unwind on the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.
Day 12-14: Paraty
Finish your Wild Brazil adventure in the beautiful UNESCO city of Paraty. This colonial treat is between the Atlantic Forest-covered mountains and calm waters of Illa Grande Bay. Enjoy the final few days of your holiday walking Paraty’s Historic Center full of wonderfully preserved buildings, quaint cobbled streets and brightly coloured doors.
Head to nearby beaches to swim in clear lagoons, see waterfalls and kayak through rich mangrove forests in search of wildlife. Home to the best cachaca in all of Brazil, why not visit a distillery and see first-hand the production process which dates back to the 18th century. A wonderful few days to relax in paradise before your flight home.
Day 15: Depart
When to Go
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Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
