By far the best place to see jaguars in the Pantanal (and therefore the world) is Matto Grosso, and specifically in the vicinity of Porto Jofre along the Cuiabá River. Here jaguars commonly lounge along the riverbanks and are fairly accustomed to the presence of people. particularly from the middle to the late dry season.
Jaguars are sometimes also encountered along the Transpantaneria and along the Miranda River in Matto Grosso du Sol.
The Cuiabá and its tributaries also offer decent odds of seeing giant otters. Meanwhile, the savannas of Matto Grosso du Sol set you up for possibly spotting such cerrado beasts as giant anteaters, maned wolves, and pampas deer.
In addition to various private reserves—most of the Pantanal is privately owned—the following government-protected areas offer prime wildlife-viewing:
The Pantanal Conservation Area (Brazil): This large complex in the Brazilian Pantanal includes the Pantanal Matogrossense National Park in southwestern Mato Grosso as well as the Acurizal, Doroche, and Penha special reserves. The national park, which sprawls between the Paraguay and Cuiabá rivers, offers sightings of hyacinth macaws, spoonbills, and other birds as well as jaguars, giant otters, capybara, and pampas deer.
Encontro das Aguas State Park (Brazil): Also in Mato Grosso, Encontro das Aguas State Park—which encompasses reaches of the Cacanje and other tributaries of the Cuiabá, which edges the holding—tempts with some of the region’s very best odds of seeing a jaguar.
Taiama Ecological Reserve (Brazil): Jaguars are also on the potential wildlife-viewing checklist at this refuge, which also supports other Pantanal mammals such as marsh deer and giant otters as well as 200-plus bird species.
Otuquis National Park (Bolivia): This important park in the Bolivian Pantanal includes not only classic Pantanal wetland habitats and palm stands but also precious swaths of tropical dry forests composing part of the Pantanal’s greater watershed. Jaguars, pumas, ocelots, capybara, marsh deer, and caiman are just some of the native fauna.
San Matías Natural Area of Integrated Management (Bolivia): One of the biggest protected landscapes in Bolivia, San Matías also protects some essential peripheral/associated ecosystems of the Pantanal borderlands, including Chiquitano dry forests, plus floodplain expanses. It adjoins Brazil’s Pantanal Matogrossense National Park, hosting many of the same wildlife species and contributing to broader habitat connectivity.
Among the numerous Pantanal-area lodges and other accommodations that provide access to these protected spots and private reserves—and which often host their own wildlife-viewing opportunities—are the Caiman Ecological Refuge, the Araras Eco Lodge, and SouthWild Jaguar Suites. The well-known Brazilian ecotourism hub of Bonito can serve as a springboard for explorations of the southern Pantanal as well as plenty of other relatively nearby ecological hotspots, not least the incredible Buraco Das Araras (Sinkhole of the Macaws).
Araras Eco Lodge
Located in the northern Pantanal region, the Araras Eco Lodge combines sophistication with a rustic edge in its offerings. All 19 rooms come with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, and fully functioning private bathrooms. Relax in a hammock on the large verandas, float in the swimming pool, and enjoy meals from the restaurant. You’ll find a bar and gift shop here as well.
The lodge sits amid over 7,400 acres of private land full of wildlife and stunning topography just south of Cuiaba, the capital of Mato Grosso. Take forest treks, go horseback riding, or enjoy bird spotting here. Bilingual naturalists answer your questions and also serve as guides.
Pousada Do Rio Mutum
Nestled between two lakes and surrounded by grassy plains, hills, and rivers, you’ll love the location of the Pousada Do Rio Mutum in the northern Pantanal. Here you’ll find 22 cottage-type apartments with air conditioning, ceiling fans, and a private porch complete with swaying hammocks.
Enjoy regional dishes at the lodge’s restaurant and a sip on a drink at the panoramic pool bar. A handy convenience store is here as well for items you might need during your stay. Various excursions include jeep safaris and motorboat trips. You can also explore by horseback or canoe.
SouthWild Jaguar Suites
Land yourself in the center of amazing wildlife habitat with a stay at the SouthWild Jaguar Suites. Located at the edge of the Piquiri River in the northern Pantanal, you’ll enjoy the comfortable, spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling sliding windows for incredible views and access to a private screened porch. Meals are included during your stay and contain locally sourced ingredients.
The surroundings here are home to the highest density of jaguars in the world. Join expert-guided walks or boat tours and keep your eyes open for these amazing animals and many others.
Barra Mansa Lodge
Barra Mansa Lodge is a simple, family-run eco-tourism lodge in the southern portion of the Pantanal. The remote locale is perfect for those wanting to fully experience the area. Rooms are complete with air conditioning, a private bath, and screened porch. Traditional foods are prepared in the restaurant, and there is access to satellite tv, telephone, and broadband internet.
Enjoy lounging on the screened-in veranda or in the outdoor hammocks. Explore the area on horseback, canoe, boat, or a jeep photo safari. Your guides are native to the area with full knowledge of the surroundings.
Caiman Ecological Refuge Lodges
One of the more popular attractions in the Pantanal, Caiman Ecological Refuge is the perfect place to see and experience the many things this region to offers. You can also stay at one of the three lodges within its boundaries. The charming main lodge is closest to all the action and offers seven superior rooms and eight standard rooms. All are fully air-conditioned with private bathrooms.
The Cordilheira Lodge offers contemporary accommodations built atop stilts. Each suite has a bedroom, living room, private bathroom, and balcony. Enjoy meals in the social area and lounge by the pool during your stay.
The cozy Baiazinha Lodge, designed in the style of a traditional ranch with six standard rooms, is another option. You’ll enjoy its social area, pool, and spectacular views.
Fazenda Barranco Alto Eco
Delve deeper into this amazing ecosystem by staying at the Fazenda Barranco Alto Eco, located on a working cattle ranch in southern Pantanal. Each air-conditioned room has a private veranda and hammock, and all meals, drinks, and excursions are included.
The surrounding land is home to 400 types of birds and over 100 different lakes. Spend your time canoeing, swimming, or going on riverboat trips. Birdwatching is another pastime with potential sightings of toucans, macaws, jacamars, raptors, trogons, and many others.
Located just south of the town of Poconé, you’ll find an unassuming dirt road used by fazenda owners and eco-tourists. Herds of capybara gather here, often making it difficult to get by in a vehicle when driving to a lodge. Flocks of herons accompany marsh deer, giant otters, and tapirs along the route. You may even see an elusive jaguar as you near Porto Jofre.It’s essential you make your way here only during the region’s dry season, which is extremely short. The highway is mostly impassable in the rainier season, so planning the timing of your visit is key.
Go Horseback Riding Through the Wetlands
Located throughout the Pantanal are offerings for horseback riding through the lowlands of the region, making exploration even more exciting for the youngsters in your family. One location recommended for those ten and above is within the Parque Ecológico Formoso in Bonito, where guides start by showing how to mount, ride, and control the horse. Enjoy the ride through high grasses, muddy trails, and occasional streams. You can also choose an eco-lodge that offers horseback riding excursions to see various flora and fauna as well as wetland birds and other animals.