Pantanal Birding

Day 1: Cuiabá to Transpantaneira Road.
Upon arrival at Marechal Rondon International Airport in Cuiabá known as a gateway to the wetlands of the Northern Pantanal, a local guide will welcome you.

Cuiabá, the capital of Brazil’s Mato Grosso state, is known as the Geographical Center of South America and forms a metropolitan area with the neighbouring town of Várzea Grande. Founded in 1719 during the gold rush, it has since become a major trading hub for the region’s vast agricultural and cattle industries. The city’s rich blend of European, African, and Native American influences is reflected in its cuisine, music, dance, and handicrafts. Often referred to as the “Southern Gate to the Amazon,” Cuiabá has a hot, humid tropical climate, perfect for exploration.

After introductions, lunch will be enjoyed before beginning the journey into the lush, vibrant Pantanal. The trip follows the iconic Transpantaneira Road for a short distance, leading to Piuval Lodge at Km 10, a serene retreat nestled in the heart of the Pantanal’s natural beauty. This lodge will serve as the base for the next two nights, offering an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.

A brief walk around the lodge may reveal a variety of bird species, including Buff-necked Ibis, Snail Kite, Savanna Hawk, Campo Flicker, Red-legged Seriema, Rufous Hornero, Ringed Kingfisher, Guira Cuckoo, Red-crested and Yellow-billed Cardinal, and Vermilion and Fork-tailed Flycatchers, among many others.

Dinner will be served at Piuval Lodge, followed by the opportunity to review the first birdwatching tick list of the trip. The night will then be spent at the lodge, surrounded by the serene sounds of the Pantanal, setting the stage for more birding adventures ahead.

Day 2: Piuval Lodge: boat and walking safaris.
An early morning walk around the picturesque lodge provides a perfect opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunrise and observe a variety of bird species before breakfast. Afterward, a boat safari offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, including sightings of iconic species like the Jabiru (the bird symbol of Pantanal), Great, Cattle and Snowy Egret, Whistling and Cocoi Herons, Black Skimmer, Wood Stork, Large-billed and Yellow-billed Terns, Anhinga, Limpkin, Brazilian Teal, Muscovy Duck, Bare-faced, Green and Plumbeous Ibis.  Along the way, keep an eye out for the Rufescent Tiger-Heron, Roseate Spoonbill, Smooth-billed Ani, Sunbittern, Wattled Jacana, Pied and American Golden Plover, Southern Lapwing, Southern and Yellow-headed Caracara, Black and Turkey Vulture, Savanna Hawk, Pale-vented and Picazuro Pigeon, Aplomado and Bat Falcon, Monk and Yellow-chevroned Parakeet, Ruddy Ground Dove, Ringed Kingfisher, and Crested Oropendola. The safari will also reveal some of the region’s fascinating mammals, including Capybara, several monkey species and Yacare Caiman.

Lunch back at the lodge offers a welcome break after the morning’s birding adventure, followed by a brief rest period to recharge.

The afternoon will be dedicated to a walking safari in a nearby forest, with the aim of spotting a variety of avian species. Key targets include Toco Toucan, Hyacinth Macaw, Turquoise-fronted Parrot, along with Blue-crowned and Peach-fronted Parakeets. Other exciting possibilities include the Blue-crowned Motmot and Rufous-tailed Jacamar, and a range of cuckoos such as Squirrel, Dark-billed, and Striped Cuckoo.

Woodcreepers like the Olivaceous, Straight-billed and Black-banded varieties may also be encountered, as well as Variable and Epaulet Oriole and Black-fronted Nunbird. Look out for woodpeckers as well, including the Lineated, White, Golden-green and Green-barred species. Additionally, the Barred and Great Antshrike, Rusty-backed, Black-bellied and Large-billed Antwren, Forest Elaenia, Hooded Tanager and Moustached Wren are all potential highlights of this enriching experience.

The search will also include Azara’s Agouti, Bearded, Black Howler Monkey, Capuchin and a variety of other mammals. A spectacular sunset can be enjoyed from an observation tower nestled in the heart of the forest, providing opportunities to spot canopy-dwelling birds.

Following a delicious dinner at the lodge, an exciting night safari will commence, offering the chance to encounter a variety of nocturnal mammals and birds. This expedition may reveal elusive creatures such as Giant Anteater, Tapir, Crab-eating Raccoon and Crab-eating Fox. Birdwatchers can look forward to spotting Band-tailed and Nacunda Nighthawk, along with Pauraque Great Potoo, Little and Scissor-tailed Nightjar. Additionally, the Great Horned Owl and Ferruginous Pygmy Owl might make an appearance, adding to the thrill of the evening.

After an exhilarating night safari, returning to the cozy lodge promises a restful night’s sleep, providing an opportunity to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead. The soothing sounds of the Pantanal at night create a serene backdrop, ensuring a peaceful retreat after a day filled with remarkable wildlife encounters.

Day 3: Heading South to Porto Jofre Lodge.
The morning if time allows we will search for the Mato Grosso Antbird, Grey-crested Cachalote, Barred and Great Antshrike, Masked Gnatcatcher, White, Green-barred, Pale-crested and Lineated Woodpecker, Great Rufous Woodcreeper, Short-crested, Yellow-olive, Boat-billed, Fork-tailed, Vermillion and Rusty-margined Flycatcher, Blue-crowned Trogon, Rufous-browed Peppershrike, Ferruginous Pygmy Owl, Pearly-vented and Common Tody-Flycatcher and numerous other species.

After breakfast, the journey continues to Porto Jofre, with a scenic drive along the middle section of the Transpantaneira road. Along the way, there will be opportunities to observe a variety of species, including Scarlet-headed Blackbird, Hyacinth Macaw, Maguari Stork, Sungrebe, Purple Gallinule, Southern Screamer, Blue-fronted Parrot , Campo Oriole, Greater and Rufous-fronted Thornbird, White Woodpecker, Chotoy Spinetail, American Pygmy Kingfisher,  Grey-crested Cacholote, Ashy-headed Greenlet, Black-tailed Tityra, Grassland Sparrow, Grey-breasted and Brown-chested Martin, Cattle Tyrant, Rusty-collared and Double-collared Seedeater, Sayaca, Hooded, Orange-headed and Grey-headed Tanager, Purple-throated Euphonia, Pale-legged Hornero, Yellowish Pipit, Chalk-browed Mockingbird, White-winged Piculet, Ruby-topaz Hummingbird, Glittering-throated Emerald, Buff-bellied Hermit and many more.

As the journey descends into the lush lower region of the Transpantaneira, the diversity of plant and animal life becomes more vibrant. The roadside ponds and streams often reveal herds of Capybaras, while Yacare Caimans bask in the water, offering an iconic glimpse of Pantanal wildlife. There may even be a chance to encounter some of the area’s extraordinary reptiles, such as the impressive Yellow Anaconda, adding to the excitement of this diverse ecosystem.

Arrival at the lodge is expected in the late afternoon, just in time to settle in and enjoy a delicious dinner. This will be the first of three relaxing nights in this comfortable accommodation, providing a perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and wildlife.

Day 4: Searching for Jaguars
Porto Jofre, located at the southern tip of the Transpantaneira Road at kilometer 146, is nestled beside expansive wetlands with diverse marshland habitats. This area is a sanctuary for waterfowl, migratory birds, and a variety of other wildlife. Recognized for its ecological importance, the region is protected under the Ramsar Convention and designated as a World Heritage Site.

We will spend our full day on boating safaris along the Cuiabá River and its tributaries which provide an extraordinary opportunity to seek out the elusive and majestic Jaguar, the region’s top attraction. Most sightings occur from the boat, often allowing for fantastic photography as these magnificent creatures patrol the riverbanks. Beyond jaguars, the boat journey offers exceptional chances to observe other mammals in their natural habitat and to spot a vibrant array of bird species, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Pantanal’s waterways.

The rich birdlife of the Pantanal offers the chance to spot a wide variety of species. Some notable birds include the Upland, Pectoral, and Buff-breasted Sandpipers, Collared Plover, Sanderling, and Boat-billed Heron. Also present are Grey-necked Wood Rail, Little Blue Heron, Wattled Jacana, Pied Lapwing, and Greater Ani. Forested areas may reveal Lesser Kiskadee, Blue-crowned Trogon, and Yellow-rumped and Solitary Caciques. Overhead, look for Snail Kite, Picazuro Pigeon, Neotropic Cormorant, Blue-winged Parrotlet, Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Southern Rough-winged Swallow and Unicoloured Blackbird. Birds of prey such as Osprey, Lesser Yellow-headed and King Vultures, Crane, Great Black, White-tailed, and Harris’s Hawks, and Long-winged Harrier are also possibilities. Other species to look out for include Grayish Saltator, Orange-backed Troupial, White-throated Kingbird, Helmeted Manakin, Bananaquit, Green-backed Becard, Marsh Seedeater, Flavescent Warbler, Creamy-bellied Thrush, Black-backed Grosbeak, alongside hummingbirds like White-tailed Goldenthroat, Gilded Hummingbird, Planalto Hermit and Fork-tailed Woodnymph.

In the evening, after a day filled with exploration and wildlife sightings, guests will return to the lodge to enjoy a delicious dinner and unwind in the tranquil setting.

Day 5: Porto Jofre to Aymara Lodge
This morning we will enjoy an early morning boat trip before our departure back north to Aymara Lodge.

While traveling along the famous Transpantaneira Road, there will be ample opportunities to stop and observe a remarkable variety of birdlife. Keep an eye out for Jabiru and Wood Stork, as well as Cocoi Heron and Roseate Spoonbill. Other notable species include Limpkin, Purple Gallinule and Green Ibis. The area is a prime spot for spotting raptors like Savanna Hawk and Snail Kite, alongside Southern Crested Caracara. Waterfowl such as the Fulvous Whistling Duck and Southern Screamer are frequently seen, along with ground birds like Rusty-margined Guan, Chaco Chachalaca and Bare-faced Curassow. In the forests and open skies, species like Scaled Pigeon, Greyish Baywing and Scaled Dove, and swallows such as the White-banded and Blue-and-white, will also be present, accompanied by the Red-crested Finch and Lined Seedeater. The road offers an exciting birdwatching experience in the heart of the Pantanal.

Late in the afternoon, arrival at Aymara Lodge provides the perfect chance to settle in and relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. After enjoying a delightful dinner, the evening will offer a peaceful retreat in preparation for the next day’s adventures. The lodge, nestled in the heart of the Pantanal’s diverse ecosystem, promises a restful night in the midst of nature, setting the stage for further exploration.

The narrow river that flows by the lodge is bordered by gallery forest and full of life. We will quietly canoe looking for Great and Snowy Egrets, Cocoy, Striated and Agamy Herons, Sungrebe, Sunbittern, Black-collared Hawks, all five species of South-American Kingfishers, Black-capped Donacobius, Yellow-billed Cardinal, as well as Caymans and Giant Otters.

The trails in the property offer the best birdwatching opportunities with Undulated Tinamou, Bicolored Hawk, Blue-throated Piping-guan, Buff-bellied Hermit, Blue-crowned Trogon, White-wedged Piculet, Planalto Slaty Antshrike, Large-billed Antwren, Mato Grosso Antbird, White-lored Spinetail, Strip-necked and Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrants, Dull-capped Attila, White-naped Xenopsaris, Helmeted and Band-tailed Manakins, Green-backed Becard, Hooded and Gray-headed Tanagers, Flavescent Warbler, Rusty-collared Seedeater, Orange-backed Troupial, just to name a few!

Lunch and dinner will be served at the lodge, providing an opportunity to savor local flavors and unwind. A restful night’s sleep will prepare guests for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 6: Porto Jofre to Aymara Lodge
Here we have a full day to explore the property and the many birding and photo opportunities we could have here. Among the regular visitors to the lodge grounds are Grey-cowled Wood-Rail, Bare-faced Curassow, Chestnut-bellied Guan, Chestnut-eared Aracari, Toco Toucan, Blue-fronted Parrot, White-eyed Parakeets, Yellow-collared and Hyacinth Macaw (nesting near the rooms!) Crimson-crested and Pale-crested Woodpeckers, Great-rufous Woodcreeper, Red-billed Scythebill, Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Yellow-billed Cardinal, Silver-beaked Tanager, and many more! Mammals commonly seen here include Hooded Capuchins, Black-and-Gold Howler Monkeys, South American Coati, Azara’s Agouti and Paca.

The narrow river that flows by the lodge is bordered by gallery forest and full of life. We will quietly canoe looking for Great and Snowy Egrets, Cocoy, Striated and Agamy Herons, Sungrebe, Sunbittern, Black-collared Hawks, all five species of South-American Kingfishers, Black-capped Donacobius, Yellow-billed Cardinal, as well as Caymans and Giant Otters.

The trails in the property offer the best birdwatching opportunities with Undulated Tinamou, Bicolored Hawk, Blue-throated Piping-guan, Buff-bellied Hermit, Blue-crowned Trogon, White-wedged Piculet, Planalto Slaty Antshrike, Large-billed Antwren, Mato Grosso Antbird, White-lored Spinetail, Strip-necked and Pearly-vented Tody-Tyrants, Dull-capped Attila, White-naped Xenopsaris, Helmeted and Band-tailed Manakins, Green-backed Becard, Hooded and Gray-headed Tanagers, Flavescent Warbler, Rusty-collared Seedeater, Orange-backed Troupial, just to name a few!

Lunch and dinner will be served at the lodge, providing an opportunity to savor local flavors and unwind. A restful night’s sleep will prepare guests for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 7: From the Lowlands to the Plateaus
After lunch today, we will bid farewell to our lodge and set out on a 3 hour journey to the captivating Chapada dos Guimarães National Park. As the second most remarkable attraction in the region after the Pantanal, this destination offers an entirely different yet equally breathtaking landscape. The park’s striking rocky plateau, perched 2,600 feet above sea level, provides unparalleled panoramic views of the expansive plains of the Paraguay River basin and the Pantanal below.

This dramatic terrain is reminiscent of the American Southwest, featuring towering monolithic rock formations, mysterious caves, and cascading waterfalls. These uplands play a vital role in sustaining the Pantanal marshlands, serving as key sources of water for the diverse ecosystems that flourish in the lowlands. Adding to its allure, the park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe unique and endemic bird species, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers alike.

Our accommodations for the evening will be at a charming and intimate lodge located right on the edge of the National Park. This serene setting will provide us with the perfect base to immerse ourselves in the natural wonders of Chapada dos Guimarães and enjoy the tranquility of this stunning environment.

Day 8-9: Forests and Savannas of Chapada dos Guimarães
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will set out to explore the incredible landscapes and biodiversity of the Cerrado, Brazil’s vast and unique savanna habitat. Over the next two days, we will dedicate ourselves to birding in this remarkable ecosystem, which boasts rugged scenery characterized by rolling tablelands, twisted and stunted trees, and vibrant biodiversity. The significance of the Cerrado is underscored by its designation as a 33,000-hectare National Park, a sanctuary created by the Brazilian Federal Government to protect its rich array of flora and fauna.

As we hike through the park’s dramatic canyons, expansive valleys, and open savannas, we’ll have the chance to spot an impressive variety of bird species. These include the Blue-crowned Motmot, Southern Antpipit, Band-tailed Manakin, and the Planalto Slaty Antshrike. Additionally, keep your eyes peeled for the White-eared Puffbird, Guira Tanager, White-rumped Tanager, White-banded Tanager, Coal-crested Finch, Plumbeous Seedeater, Black-throated Saltator, and the recently discovered and fascinating Chapada Flycatcher, among others. Every turn of the trail offers the possibility of encountering something remarkable.

Our birding adventures will also take us to the iconic Véu-da-Noiva Waterfall, one of the park’s most scenic and celebrated landmarks. Here, while admiring the waterfall’s majestic cascade, we’ll keep an eye out for more avian treasures. Possible sightings include the Channel-billed Toucan, Lettered Aracari, the White-collared Swifts and Biscutate Swifts, the dazzling Blue-winged Macaw and Red-and-Green Macaw, Curl-crested Jay, Gray Monjita, Crested Black-Tyrant, Collared Crescentchest, and the rare and beautiful Blue Finch.

When the midday heat intensifies, we may pause to cool off with a refreshing swim at one of the park’s many pristine waterfalls, a perfect way to rejuvenate before continuing our exploration.

These two days in the Cerrado promise to be an unforgettable immersion into one of Brazil’s most extraordinary natural environments, offering not only outstanding birdwatching opportunities but also the chance to connect deeply with the stunning landscapes and ecosystems that make this region so unique.

Day 10: Departure
Today’s activities will depend on the flight schedule of the group, but we might still have time to explore a bit more of the property and search for birds that we may not have seen yet. Guests will be taken to Cuiabá airport at their convenience.