About this trip
The Pantanal in central-western Brazil is the world’s largest freshwater wetland and one of the most biodiverse habitats on the South American continent. The region’s star residents are the jaguars that roam, hunt, and lounge on the forested riverbanks. Embark on an exceptional 15-day adventure with Hawks Aloft for the opportunity to observe these majestic big cats at close range, along with other spectacular wildlife and hundreds of bird species like the Jabiru, Hyacinth Macaw, Greater Rhea, and Toco Toucan. You’ll explore the region’s varied terrains on foot and during small-boat excursions, with several nights aboard comfortable floating accommodations that put you in the heart of the action.
Highlights
- Search for jaguars, giant anteaters, monkeys, otters, caimans, and other wildlife while exploring the North and South Pantanal by boat, vehicle, and on foot.
- Drive along the Transpantaneira, a mostly dirt highway that passes through many habitats and is often described as the best road in the world to spot and photograph wildlife.
- Seek out a colorful array of parrots and parakeets — including Blue-and-yellow, Red-bellied, Red-and-green, and Hyacinth Macaws — in urban and natural settings.
- Ascend SouthWild’s observation tower for eye-level views of a Jabiru stork nest.
- Enjoy a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see ocelots at close range from a strategically located blind.
About Hawks Aloft
Hawks Aloft, Inc, a 501-C-3 nonprofit organization based in Albuquerque, New Mexico was founded in 1994 by 12 like-minded individuals with expertise in a wide variety of professional fields. Our vision focuses on protecting indigenous wild birds and their habitats. Our goal was then, and continues to be to act with transparency and collaborate with others to build a network that conducts research on all species of birds and fosters future leaders by providing school-year long education programs free of charge to low income schools. In 2013, we incorporated raptor rescue into our mission in response to overwhelming requests for help with injured birds. Today, we run the New Mexico Raptor Rescue Hotline, a free statewide resource for people who have found an injured bird or have other concerns.
We are proud to partner with Holbrook Travel to be able to offer our members and others the opportunity to travel, see native wildlife in other lands, experience differing cultures, and learn from local conservationists about efforts in their countries. https://hawksaloft.org
About your leader
Gail Garber
Gail Garber, Executive Director, discovered her passion for birds over 30 years ago. She has dedicated her life to avian studies, education, and other aspects of Hawks Aloft, and has traveled much of the U.S. as well as Canada, Venezuela, Honduras, United Arab Emirates, Kenya, Tanzania, Italy, France, and Switzerland. She has led birding tours to New Zealand, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Peru, and Guatemala. Garber is a popular speaker for adult programs at birding festivals in New Mexico and Colorado where she regularly leads raptor tours, sharing her love of birding and conservation. As an artist, writer, and executive director of Hawks Aloft, Gail has written three books and published numerous articles in many fields. In her other life, she is a professional quilt maker (Gail Garber Designs) and often travels to teach and lecture on methods that she has developed. Much of her leisure time is spent outdoors, often in the company of her two beloved dogs, Martial and Harpy.
$12,450
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $1850
What makes us different
Wildlife up-close
Expert guides
Low stress travel planning
Flight arrangements
Sustainable travel
Service anytime
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryDepart US
Campo Grande
Bonito
Bonito
South Pantanal
South Pantanal
Campo Grande
North Pantanal
North Pantanal
North Pantanal
North Pantanal
North Pantanal
North Pantanal
Depart
Arrive US
Pricing
Print Pricing$12,450
Per person
About this price
Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.
Single room supplement $1850
What's Included
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Full time guide for the duration of your program
- Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
- Internal flights relevant to itinerary
- Water during meals
- Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
- Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Tips
- Travel Insurance
- Items of personal nature
Pricing Details
Full payment of $12,450 is due to hold space on this trip. This payment is not refundable; 100% cancellation fee.
Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.
Single room supplement $1850
Final payment due date: July 02, 2025
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & Exit Requirements
U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least the duration of your stay, with at least two blank visa pages, to enter Brazil. As requirements are subject to change at any time and without notice, we recommend a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
U.S. citizens must also obtain a visa for entry into Brazil. An electronic visa is the easiest option for most travelers and can be obtained online at https://brazil.vfsevisa.com. To apply, you will be prompted to create an account and provide your passport information. You will need a color scan of the bio page of your passport with the MRZ code fully visible, as well as a passport-style photo, i.e. a color photo with a white background, sized 3.5 x 4.5 cm (413 x 531 pixels). The eVisa fee is $80.90 and can be paid using a Mastercard or Visa credit or debit card.
Once your application is approved, you will receive an email with a PDF file containing your eVisa, which you should print and be prepared to show prior to boarding your flight and again upon arrival in Brazil. We also recommend saving a digital copy on your phone as a backup. The average processing time for eVisa applications is up to 5 business days; we recommend applying well in advance to account for any possible delays.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Brazilian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality. Also be aware that you are not permitted to apply for the eVisa if you are a Brazilian citizen.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Brazil.
Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Brazil, including the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul. Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas.
The CDC also recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Brazil.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
The CDC warns that travelers to Brazil, including the states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of mosquito bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
Dengue Fever & other insect-borne illnesses
The CDC warns that dengue fever is a potential risk in Brazil. Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, which, as opposed to the Anopheles mosquito, is active during the day. Travelers are unlikely to contract dengue unless they are traveling through an area where there is an outbreak.
In addition, locally transmitted cases of leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported. The CDC recommends that travelers to Brazil protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
Other Nuisance Pests
In places with rich vegetation and proximity to bodies of water, you may encounter chiggers. These are mites that can superficially attach to skin and leave behind itchy red bumps that appear 3-6 hours after initial contact. Their bites are sometimes mistaken for those of bed bugs or other insects; however, unlike bed bugs, which tend to target exposed skin, chiggers look for skin folds or areas where clothing fits tightly—like the ankles, waist, underarms, elbow creases, and the back of the knees—to feed on broken-down skin cells. They are not known to transmit any illnesses in Brazil.
We recommend that travelers to the Pantanal protect themselves against chigger bites using the measures noted above. Additionally, if potential exposure occurs, we recommend showering and scrubbing skin with soap and hot water as quickly as possible. If that is not immediately feasible, promptly rub skin with a dry towel or cloth and place any exposed clothing in a zip-top bag until it can be washed. To treat any itchiness, we suggest over-the-counter anti-itch lotion and/or oral antihistamines.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
Respiratory Illness Protocols
Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.
Resources
Print ResourcesPacking Recommendations
Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.
You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.
CLOTHING
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.
Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.
Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. The rainy season in the Pantanal is typically between November and April. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.
- A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
- Shorts
- Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
- Socks – Bring extra pairs.
- Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe, water-resistant or waterproof, walking or hiking shoes or boots. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. You may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
- Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
- Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
Personal Toiletries
Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.
- Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
- Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
- Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Not all hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, so you may wish to bring one from home.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Aloe vera gel
- A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed
In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.
Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.
Miscellaneous
Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.
- Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
- Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
- Money – ATM/credit card, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
- Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
- Sunglasses with strap
- Small day pack for hikes and excursions
- Flashlight and/or head lamp
- Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
- A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
- Binoculars with lens cleaner
- Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
- Non-perishable snacks
- Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
- Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
- Notepad or travel journal and pen
- Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
- Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
- A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
- Money belt
- Chargers for electronics; batteries
- Voltage converter and plug adapter
Questions
Contact Sandy Schmidt at 877-907-5360 or email Sandy.
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