In the Southern Pantanal, discover an exceptionally well-preserved natural paradise

Our South Pantanal Tour –  a chance to see one of the world’s last untouched ecosystems 

Far from mass tourism or fine sandy beaches, Brazil becomes a very different place in the Southern Pantanal.

The landscape in this region changes radically throughout the year depending on the rains. A more isolated area in the heart of the country, it has a low population density and is more rarely visited by tourists. Apart from some fazendeiros, gauchos, (farmers and cowboys) and some indigenous groups, these endless territories are practically uninhabited.

A South Pantanal Tour will be a chance for you to explore an almost untouched land where the human hand has not yet affected the magnificent flora and fauna. You will get here on the famous “Transpantaneira“, route, the only one that crosses the region. During the trip you will discover one of the richest ecosystems in the world, yet much lesser known than the Amazon.

As soon as you enter this untouched wilderness, the first thing you notice is the incredible number of bird species all around you.  The inhabitants will tell you that, here, there is not an uninhabited square centimetre. The exuberant plantlife is indeed a natural refuge for countless animal species. This abundance of life in all its forms will transform the 4 hour drive needed to reach the Fazenda São Francisco into a real safari. You will be too busy admiring all the wildlife to notice the time pass!

From the Fazenda, you can go on canoe trips to see all the animals on the river banks. During a memorable photo safari in a 4×4 vehicle, you may even cross paths with one of the famous species living in the Southern Pantanal. Otters, or jaguars, discreet and shy, will surely be hiding in the vegetation, you will have to open your eyes and be attentive to this new world so as not to miss this incredible show of nature.

During your stay, as well as the different day activities on offer, you can also go on night excursions into the heart of Southern Pantanal. It will be a chance to meet the famous reptiles living in their hundreds in these swamps, who come out at night to hunt. And to top off your exotic dream, you can go Piranha fishing, a traditional activity in this region of the world. It is not widely known that Piranha are a delicous fish to eat!

An authentic tour of Brazilian wildlife

Mato Grosso do Sul, is simply a must see destination if you want a different way to discover Brazil.

South Pantanal is the heart of the wild and unspoilt nature that gives life to the entire Mato Grosso region. Mother nature reigns supreme in this unparalleled ecological sanctuary. You will feel the thrill of being in a totally unspoiled environment, where the cycle of the seasons and the singing of birds reminds us that time has not stopped. Just as the landscapes can turn into huge shallow lakes when the rivers burst their banks, the temperatures can also change a lot. The local climate at tropical altitude, is characterized by a hot and humid summer and a cool and dry winter. From May to September, cold spells are possible, going down to only a few degrees above zero. If you decide to travel during the long school holidays, it is advisable to bring appropriate clothing.

To get closer to the local way of life and to be at one with the environment, you will share the daily lives of the region’s farmers, the famous gauchos, by staying on a Fazenda. A part of this immense ranch has been modified specially for tourism so that visitors can enjoy the local way of life in a comfortable setting that still respects the local environment. Plain but comfortable rooms welcome you everyday so you can recover from your long explorations out in the fresh air.
This style of accommodation will allow you to appreciate local life in a setting where pleasure, comfort, and discovery will be the main priorities. As you will be staying out in the wilds, this trip comes with full board (not including drinks, except water), an ideal way to discover the delicious local cuisine and fresh farm produce. A real treat for both young and old and a touch of gastronomy to add another dimension to your stay in the Fazenda São Francisco!

Campo Grande, the regional capital of Mato Grosso do Sul

To enter the Southern Pantanal, you first have to reach Campo Grande, the regional capital of Mato Grosso do Sul.

Also known as “Cidade Morena”, the mixed city, has a rich multi-cultural back ground with various local traditions.
The land of travelers, Brazilian culture here is marked by Portuguese, Japanese and Lebanese influences, traces left by generations of immigrants. From the famous Churrasco, the art of barbecue from Paraguay, to Soba, Japanese noodles, the local cuisine is rich and varied. It offers visitors an interesting illustration of the permanent cultural mixing in South and Central Brazil with their successive waves of migrants from around the world. Depending on your arrival and departure flight times, you may have to spend a night in a hotel before reaching your accommodation in South Pantanal. Don’t forget to try the different culinary specialties brought here by the migrants. Especially the local meat, because Mato Grosso do Sul is the biggest region of cattle production in Brazil.