At half the size of Texas, the Pantanal is a vast wetland stretching across the borders of Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay. The rainy season, from October to March, creates an enormous flooded area relieved by patches of dry land, where most of the Pantanal's wealth of animals migrate together.
The waters begin to recede in March, and remain low until the following rainy season. This flooding has made systematic farming of the region impractical, leaving an enormously rich feeding ground for wildlife. Birds are easiest to spot, numbering over 600 species, but the Pantanal is also a sanctuary for the giant river otter, anacondas, iguanas, jaguars, ocelots, cougars, caymans, deer, giant anteaters, black howler monkeys, zebu bulls and "capybaras", the world's largest rodents.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Rio de Janeiro, the cidade maravilhosa. Welcoming you to the 'marvelous city' is your bilingual Tour Director or representative who will escort you to your hotel on the Copacabana - The Luxor Continental. The afternoon is free for a stroll, some shopping or to relax on the beach or at your rooftop pool overlooking Copacabana! Meet your fellow travelers for a complementary caipirinha or other tropical drink before attending a Rodizio, an All-You-Can-Eat Brazilian Barbecue (included).
Day 2: The panoramic view from the top of the Sugar Loaf Mountain is the highlight of today's sightseeing tour. Board a funicular to reach the summit with its 360† spectrum of golden beaches, green forests and a thriving metropolis that has earned Rio de Janeiro the title of the world's most beautiful city.
Sightseeing continues with a tour of Rio's historical past. Learn how Portugal's prince scandalously broke all family ties and declared himself Emperor of Brazil. In the afternoon heat, everything slows down, and the Cariocas (as the people of Rio call themselves) head for the beach! Includes: (D)
Day 3: Christ the Redeemer keeps an eye on Rio from an elevation of 710m (2340ft). Board the tremzinho (cogwheel railway) up to the top of Corcovado Mountain for a birds' eye view of the center of the city from the center of the city! Includes: (B)
Day 4: Depart for the Pantanal. Your bilingual guide greets you for your transfer to the strategically located UNESO Farm (30km from Cuiaba Airport - for those who want to see more, like the Chapada dos Guimarăes and the opportunity to do some snorkeling) or to Pousada Araras, 230km from Campo Grande airport, located within the Pantanal, South America's largest Nature Reservation at 230,000 sq. km. Includes: (B)
Days 5-7: Daily excursions vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions. You may be traveling by Jeep, boat, horse or on foot! Includes: (B, L, D)
Day 8: Transfer to the airport for the continuation of your tour or return journey. Includes: (B)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price: US $1,730 / EU ˆ1,224
Single Supplement: US $1,010 / EU ˆ714
Single Traveler*: US $3,025 / EU ˆ2,140
Price Includes:
- 8 days/7 nights in Brazil
- 5 dinners & 3 lunches
- 7 Brazilian Buffet Breakfasts
- All transfers
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Brazil
Ecotourism
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