Brazil Wildlife, Waterfalls & Beach
16 days from £3,950 pp
Brazil Wildlife, Waterfalls & Beach is a private, 16-day tailor-made holiday through Brazil‘s natural highlights: three nights in the Pantanal, snorkelling in the crystal-clear rivers of Bonito, Iguazu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides, then the beaches and colonial streets of Paraty and Rio de Janeiro. Prices start from £3,950 per person and include accommodation, private guides, transport, excursions and internal flights. It suits nature lovers who want wildlife, waterfalls and beach in one trip, at a more relaxed price than our jaguar-focused holidays.
Trip Highlights
- Experience the Pantanal, South America’s premier wildlife destination
- Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear rivers of Bonito
- See the mighty Iguazu falls from both the Argentina and Brazilian side
- Join a local volleyball game or just relax on the beaches in Rio
Our Expert Tip
”What you want to see and experience in Brazil will shape the best time to visit. In the Pantanal, wildlife is at its best in the dry season, from May to October, while November to April brings lush green landscapes and amazing birdwatching”
Sinead, Brazil expert
Brazil Wildlife, Waterfalls & Beach Itinerary: Day by Day
Day 1-3: Pantanal
Start your journey in the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland. You’ll stay at Refúgio da Ilha in the southern Pantanal, exploring its huge diversity of flora and fauna by river boat, canoe, walking trails, 4×4 and horseback.
Among the rich biodiversity are jaguars, giant otters, hyacinth macaws and millions of caimans. If seeing jaguars is your top priority, ask us about adding the northern Pantanal, or see our Wild Brazil jaguar holiday.
Day 4-5: Bonito
A few hours’ drive from your Pantanal lodge is another stunning natural highlight of Brazil: the crystal-clear waters of Bonito. Suit up with your snorkelling gear and float gently down the Río da Prata, check, admiring huge numbers of colourful fish beneath the water as monkeys watch on from the trees above.
On the way, hike the Boca da Onça trail past 11 waterfalls, with the chance to swim in crystal-clear pools.
Day 6-8: Iguazu Falls
The Iguazu Falls are, in our opinion, the most beautiful and spellbinding on the planet. Made up of around 275 individual waterfalls and surrounded by rainforest, there is nowhere else quite like them.
Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, we suggest one full day on each side to fully explore and immerse yourselves in this natural wonder. Not sure which side of the falls is better? Read our guide.
Day 9-12: Paraty
After a flight from Iguazu to São Paulo, you’ll be driven to the coastal town of Paraty and your hotel, Pousada do Príncipe, in the heart of the historic centre. This preserved colonial gem is the perfect base for exploring the beaches, coves, jungles and waterfalls of the Green Coast.
Take a small boat trip to neighbouring bays, kayak to a mangrove forest, take a jeep tour into the mountains, or simply explore the cobbled streets of this gorgeous town. A magical way to slow down after the wildlife and waterfalls.
Day 13-15: Rio de Janeiro
Drive from Paraty to the iconic city of Rio de Janeiro, famously known as ‘The Marvellous City’, and settle into the Windsor California, right on Copacabana beach. With the help of your local guide, discover Rio’s vibrant culture and explore its many highlights. Take in spectacular views from Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado, home to the statue of Christ the Redeemer.
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 16: Depart
Transfer to Rio de Janeiro airport for your flight home. Prefer more time on the coast? See Slow Travel: Southern Brazil In Depth.
When to Go
Best time for a Brazil wildlife holiday
The best time for this trip is May to October, the Pantanal’s dry season, when wildlife gathers around the remaining water and Bonito’s rivers are at their clearest for snorkelling. November to April brings lush green landscapes and great birdwatching, with Iguazu Falls at its fullest and Rio and Paraty at their warmest from December to March. Ask us which month suits you best.
Why Book With Travel Differently
Passionate and experienced
- Each member of the team has over a decade of experience in the industry
- Our 5* client reviews reflect our service & standards
- We are a fully independent & owner-run tour operator
- Our holidays include full financial protection & ATOL coverage
- We are destination experts, ensuring authentic & reliable advice
Committed and Responsible
Tailor-made and Personal
- No two trips are the same, our holidays are 100% bespoke
- We design personal, genuine cultural connections & experiences
- From planning to travel, you’ll have one dedicated point of contact
- Our support is available around the clock during your holiday
- We take care of the details, so you don’t have to
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.
