Private Jaguar Safaris in the Heart of the Pantanal

The Pantanal: South America’s Wild Heart

Spanning hundreds of thousands of square kilometers across Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, the Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and a breathtaking mosaic of flooded grasslands, savannas, and tropical forest.

This seasonal floodplain is a biodiversity powerhouse, home to one of the richest collections of wildlife on Earth. Each year, tropical rains flood up to 80% of the Pantanal basin, creating an aquatic wonderland that supports an astonishing array of life. As the waters recede during the dry season, fish-filled channels remain—drawing in migratory birds like kingfishers, jabiru storks, egrets, herons, and macaws.

But the Pantanal is far more than a birder’s paradise.

With over 3,500 plant species, hundreds of mammals and reptiles, and more than 9,000 species of invertebrates, it’s a living laboratory of rare and endangered species—including hyacinth macaws, giant otters, marsh deer, margays, and the elusive maned wolf.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pantanal contains South America’s highest concentration of wildlife—and most famously, it is home to the largest population of jaguars on the planet.

Thanks to the region’s abundant prey and open terrain, jaguars thrive here year-round. But from May to October, when the rains retreat and the rivers shrink, jaguar activity becomes even more visible. During these dry months, they gather near the riverbanks to hunt, drink, rest, and mate—offering rare and unforgettable encounters in the wild.

When is the best time to visit the Pantanal?

The best time to visit the Pantanal is between May and October—during the dry season, when wildlife gathers along shrinking riverbanks and visibility is at its peak.

If your goal is to see wild jaguars, the most reliable window is July through September, when sightings are most frequent and conditions are ideal for photography and observation.

That said, each part of the season has its own magic:

• May–June offers lush, green landscapes, fewer boats, and intimate sightings.

• July–September is peak jaguar season, with the highest concentration of sightings.

• October–November brings vibrant vegetation, bird migrations, and dramatic wildlife activity as the rains begin to return.

We operate tours from May through November, and are happy to help you choose the time that best fits your interests—whether that’s photography, birdwatching, or simply connecting with nature.

You’ll fly into Cuiabá International Airport – Marechal Rondon, located in the state of Mato Grosso in west-central Brazil.

Upon arrival, a member of our team will greet you and begin the journey to Porto Jofre, a remote region at the southern end of the Transpantaneira Highway, approximately 200 km away. This scenic drive takes you deep into jaguar territory, with countless opportunities to spot and photograph wildlife along the way—from capybaras and caimans to storks and howler monkeys.

From the moment you land, we handle everything. All you need to do is show up—we’ll take care of the rest.

This is one of our most frequently asked questions—and the answer depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.

If you're an avid photographer seeking a range of sightings, lighting conditions, and animal behavior, we recommend spending at least 4 days on the river to maximize your opportunities.

If your goal is simply to see wild jaguars and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pantanal, then 2 full safari days is often enough to deliver a powerful and unforgettable experience.

For most travelers, the sweet spot is 3–4 days—enough time to enjoy a variety of sightings while staying present and relaxed in the rhythm of the wild.

What’s a typical day like on safari?

There’s no such thing as a “typical” day in the Pantanal—but here’s what a day with Journey with Jaguars often looks like:

You’ll wake just before dawn. The air is cool, the sky still dark, and the sound of howler monkeys and distant bird calls hint that the wild is already awake. At 6:00 AM, you’ll fuel up with a buffet breakfast—fresh fruit, bread, eggs, coffee, tea—then step onto your private boat as the first light hits the river.

By 6:30 AM, you’re gliding through the mist. Jaguars prowl the banks. Capybaras shuffle in the grass. Giant otters cut through the water like shadows. Your guide and boat pilot scan every bend, tuned into the subtle signs most would miss.

Around midday, depending on the action, you can either return to the lodge for a break—or stay on the river, with lunch delivered by boat so you never miss a moment. We highly recommend staying out. Some of our best sightings happen when everyone else is heading back.

The afternoon light softens, and the Pantanal begins to glow. You might be sitting quietly, watching a jaguar sleep on a riverbank, or following one as it disappears into the reeds. These aren’t staged moments—they unfold on the jaguar’s terms. That’s what makes them unforgettable.

At sunset, you’ll cruise back to the lodge—tired, maybe a little sun-kissed, always changed. Dinner is served buffet-style: fresh salads, grilled meats or fish.

What animals can we expect to see?

While the elusive jaguar is the star of the show, the Pantanal is teeming with an incredible diversity of life. During your time on the river, you’ll have the chance to see a wide range of mammals, reptiles, and birds in their natural habitat.

Common sightings include:
– Giant Otters
– Tapirs
– Hyacinth Macaws
– Toucans
– Caimans
– Capybaras
– Anacondas

Our tours explore the region near Encontro das Águas State Park, which holds one of the highest concentrations of wild jaguars in the world—making it the best place on Earth to observe these big cats in the wild.

Please note: Giant anteaters are not found in this region and are not part of the expected wildlife sightings on this tour.

What to Pack for Your Pantanal Safari

https://www.journeywithjaguars.com/blog/what-to-pack-for-a-jaguar-safari

Here’s what we recommend bringing to stay comfortable, protected, and prepared for long days on the river:

• Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve clothing
  (You'll receive a FREE Journey with Jaguars SPF 50+ quick-dry long sleeve shirt as part of your tour.)

• Light, breathable pants
  For sun protection and comfort in hot, humid weather.

• FREE Journey with Jaguars neck buff
  Great for sun protection, dust, or warmth on early morning outings.

• Sunglasses
  Polarized lenses are ideal for reducing glare off the water.

• Hat
  A wide-brimmed or cap-style hat for sun protection.

• Sunscreen
  SPF 30+ recommended—water-resistant formulas work best on the river.

• Electrolytes
  It can get very hot. Bring hydration tablets or electrolyte powder to stay energized and well-hydrated.

• Day pack for the boat
  To carry your camera gear, water, snacks, and personal items.

• Insect repellent
  Especially useful during early mornings and late afternoons.

• Snacks
  Bring protein bars or your favorite small snacks for energy between meals.

• International power adaptor
  Brazil uses a Type N plug (some outlets also accept Type C). Bring an adaptor to charge devices at the lodge.

• Warm clothing (seasonal)
  Mornings can be surprisingly chilly, especially on a moving boat. We recommend a light jacket or fleece depending on the time of year.

What’s Included

– Round-trip private transportation from Cuiabá to Porto Jofre
– Private safari boat equipped with a 115 HP motor
– Expert local wildlife guide with deep knowledge of the Pantanal
– Lodge accommodation in Porto Jofre
– All meals and soft drinks throughout your stay
– Cooler box on the boat stocked with unlimited water and soft drinks
– Optional fishing gear available on request

– Flights to and from Cuiabá
– Travel insurance (required for all guests)
– Tips for hotel staff, guides, and drivers
– Alcoholic beverages (available for purchase separately)

Not at all! You don’t need to be a wildlife expert or photographer to enjoy this experience. Many of our guests simply love nature and want the chance to see a jaguar in the wild, surrounded by stunning landscapes and great company.

If you enjoy being immersed in nature and sharing meaningful moments with like-minded travelers, this tour is absolutely for you.

Photography Essentials for Your Jaguar Safari

• Camera Body
  Bring the camera you’re most comfortable using—mirrorless or DSLR, both work great.

• Telephoto Lens
  A lens with reach is key. We recommend anything in the 200–600mm range for versatility when photographing jaguars and other wildlife from the boat.

• Spare Batteries
  Expect long days on the river. Batteries can’t be recharged until you're back at the lodge in the evening, so pack extras to keep shooting without worry.

• Monopod (Optional)
  A monopod can be helpful for stability and reducing fatigue. Tripods aren’t ideal—they take up space and don't provide much value on a moving boat.

• Freehand Shooting
  Most of our guides and photographers shoot with handheld equipment. There’s always slight movement on the river, and flexibility is key when tracking fast-moving wildlife.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is entirely optional and at your discretion, but always appreciated by our hardworking team. Amounts often vary based on your experience, length of stay, and group size.

If you’d like to leave a tip, we recommend considering the following individuals:

– Wildlife Guides
– Boat Drivers
– Transport Team
– Hotel Staff

Please feel free to speak with us during your tour if you’d like help coordinating or distributing tips fairly.

Bathroom Breaks in the Wild

We’re deep in the wilderness—there are no bathrooms on the river. When nature calls, our team will find a safe, discreet spot along the riverbank for a bathroom break. Your guide will always step off first to check and ensure it’s safe before anyone exits the boat.

For female guests, we recommend bringing toilet paper (provided by the lodge). We’ll also supply a ziplock bag so used paper can be carried out—we never leave waste behind.

Do I need a visa or any vaccinations?

Visa:
As of April 10, 2025, citizens of Australia, the United States, and Canada must obtain a tourist visa before entering Brazil. The process is quick and fully online—we recommend applying at least 4 weeks before your trip.

Apply here: 👉 https://brazil.vfsevisa.com/

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.

Vaccinations:
There are no vaccinations legally required for entering Brazil. However, the Yellow Fever vaccine is strongly recommended when traveling to the Pantanal region.

⚠️ Important: While Brazilian immigration typically does not ask for proof, some airlines may request a Yellow Fever certificate before boarding your flight—especially if you're coming from or transiting through a Yellow Fever zone. It's best to have this document with you.

Is Wi-Fi or cell service available at the lodge?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available at the lodge, but due to the remote location, the connection can be slow and occasionally unreliable. It's best suited for basic tasks like checking messages or emails—not for streaming or large file uploads.

Cell service is very limited in the Porto Jofre region, and in many areas, there is no signal at all. We recommend informing loved ones before your trip that you'll be off the grid for parts of your stay.

Many guests find that this digital disconnection becomes one of the most refreshing parts of the experience.

Accommodation is all-inclusive—simple, yet full of charm. It has a relaxed, homely vibe that keeps you close to nature while providing everything you need.
Click here to take a look!

The Porto Jofre region we explore is self-regulated, meaning there are strict limits on how many hotels operate and how many boats are allowed on the river at any given time. With limited availability and high demand—especially during the short jaguar season—planning ahead is essential.

Jaguar viewing season runs for just 7-9 months each year, with only three months (July–September) considered peak. Outside of this window, the entire region—including hotels, staff, and local services—slows down significantly.

Keep in mind, Porto Jofre is remote. The nearest city is five hours away, and everything from fuel to fresh produce must be transported in. This isolation is part of what keeps the Pantanal wild and pristine—but it also means logistics are complex, and resources are limited.